A plant record

Citronella (Sitwonèl bwa)

Cymbopogon nardus

EnglishCitronella

KreyòlSitwonèl bwa

FrançaisCitronnelle de Ceylan

BotanicalCymbopogon nardus

Citronella (Sitwonèl bwa) — Cymbopogon nardus, used in Haitian and Caribbean herbal tradition

Traditionally used

Insect repellent, fever, digestive complaints, antiseptic, colds, body aches

Prepared as

The leaves are crushed and rubbed on the skin or burned to drive off mosquitoes, and an infusion of the leaves in hot water is taken as a tea for fever and digestion. The same infusion, cooled, is used as a wash for minor skin irritations.

In three languages

Kreyòl — Pou voye ensèk ale, lafyèv, pwoblèm dijesyon, antiseptik, grip, kò fè mal

Français — Répulsif contre les insectes, fièvre, troubles digestifs, antiseptique, rhumes, courbatures

Safety

Safety notes for this plant are still being written. Until they are, treat it with a cautious hand.

Plants can look similar and be misidentified — always verify with a local herbalist or guide before use.

Kept alongside

LicoricePineapplePeacock flowerCalotropePapayaRingworm senna

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