How to Extract Citronella Oil

Citronella oil is obtained from the leaves and stems of different species of lemon grass. An aromatic chemical, it has many uses in soap, perfumes, cosmetics, flavoring agents, insect repellents, bio-pesticides and antifungal agents. If you don't feel like paying the large markup that is common with the sale of aromatic herbs and you live in one of the many areas of the world in which lemon grass grows, it is possible to extract citronella oil using products from around the house.

Things You'll Need

• 4 oz. dried citronella leaves
• Isopropyl alcohol
• Small jar
• Collander
• Clean pot

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Instructions

• 1

  Place 4 ounces of dried citronella leaves into a small jar and fill it with isopropyl alcohol, also known as rubbing alcohol.

• 2

  Set the jar down and leave it for three days.

• 3

  Place your collander on top of your pot. Strain the contents of the jar into the pot for transport into its final container. You have now successfully extracted citronella oil.