Evidence supporting the use of: Citronella
For the health condition: Fungal Infections

Links: Go back one page, Tool main page, Ingredients list, Health conditions list, Body systems list

Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Citronella (Cymbopogon nardus or Cymbopogon winterianus) has a long history of traditional use in various cultures, especially in Southeast Asia, for its antifungal and antimicrobial properties. Essential oils from citronella have been applied topically in folk medicine to help treat skin infections, including those caused by fungi. The traditional application stems from the observation that citronella oil can inhibit the growth of fungi and bacteria, which led to its use for minor wounds, athlete’s foot, and other superficial fungal infections.

Scientific research has provided some support for these traditional uses. In vitro studies have demonstrated that citronella oil and its components (such as citronellal and geraniol) exhibit inhibitory effects against certain fungal species, including Aspergillus, Trichophyton, and Candida. However, most of this evidence comes from laboratory studies and not from well-controlled human clinical trials. The antifungal mechanism is believed to involve disruption of the fungal cell membrane.

Despite promising in vitro results, there is a lack of robust clinical data supporting the efficacy and safety of citronella oil for treating fungal infections in humans. Therefore, while traditional use is substantial and preliminary scientific evidence exists, the overall evidence is limited, and citronella should not be considered a primary or proven treatment for fungal infections. More rigorous clinical research is needed.

More about Citronella
More about Fungal Infections

Products containing Citronella

We currently have no products on Vitabase that contain this ingredient.