Lemongrass -- Cymbopogon citratus

My first attempt at making home-made bug spray included Lemongrass essential oil.  It's fruity-herbal aroma made my back patio smell fresh and inviting.  I've come a long way since those days and have made many home remedies using this happy oil.  I've also learned to respect its boundaries.  

Lemongrass in a spray or diffuser can keep bugs - meaning insects and germs - at bay.  It can lift the spirits when you're feeling gloomy while the citral (a combination of the chemicals neral and geranial) act to calm the nerves.  

In topical blends, Lemongrass is an effective antifungal for skin infections, and its cooling effect may assist in reducing fevers.  Its antibacterial properties make it a good choice in products for acne.  The citral content (> 70%) comes back into play as an analgesic which may relieve nociceptive pain.

Neral and geranial are chemicals in the aldehyde family.  Chemicals in this classification need to be kept to low dilutions and used for short periods of time to prevent irritation and/or damage to the skin or mucous membranes.   In the case of Lemongrass Essential Oil, that dilution should be a maximum of 0.7% (about 4 drops per 1 ounce of carrier oil).  Other EOs in the blend and the carrier oil(s) need to be strong skin protectors/healers.    

If you take prescribed medications (like certain antidepressants), you'll want to check that Lemongrass won't interfere with them,