Citronella vs Clerodendrum Myricoides

Side-by-side comparison of medicinal herbs

Herb

Citronella

Cymbopogon nardus

Antimicrobial

Clerodendrum myricoides

Antimicrobial

Citronella

❌ Not recommended in pregnancy

❌ Not recommended while nursing

Clerodendrum Myricoides

❌ Not recommended in pregnancy

❌ Not recommended while nursing

Description

Tropical grass famous for its citronella oil used as insect repellent and in traditional medicine for fever.

Shrub native to East Africa used medicinally in Kenya and Ethiopia for fever, skin conditions, and respiratory complaints.

Active Compounds

citronellal, geraniol, citronellol, limonene

clerodendrin, terpenoids, flavonoids, alkaloids

Traditional Uses

Fever treatment in Asian folk medicine, Headache remedy, Mosquito repellent

fever, skin conditions, respiratory infections, malaria, headache

Modern Uses

Insect repellent, Antifungal effects, Antimicrobial

antipyretic, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, analgesic

Adult Dosage

5-10 drops in diffuser; diluted 5% in carrier oil for skin

Leaf decoction 200ml 3x daily

Contraindications

Undiluted skin application, Eye contact

pregnancy, children under 6

Side Effects

Skin irritation if undiluted

mild nausea, digestive upset

Drug Interactions

0 known interactions

Reviewed by: HerbAlly Editorial Team, Medical herbalists and healthcare professionals

Sources: WHO Monographs · NCCIH · PubMed · Commission E