Geraniol
Quick Facts
- Type
- Essential oil component / Botanical
- Source
- Monoterpenoid alcohol found in citronella, rose, lemongrass, and geranium oils
- OMRI Listed
- Yes ✓
- Bee Safe
- Yes
- Pet Safe
- Yes
- Residual
- Moderate for a terpene — 4-8 hours; less volatile than most essential oil compounds
- Best For
- Mosquito repellent. Component in essential oil pest control blends.
What Is Geraniol?
Acts as an insect repellent and contact toxin. Disrupts octopamine receptors and GABA receptors in insect nervous systems. Research shows geraniol is 5x more effective than citronella as a mosquito repellent.
Source: Monoterpenoid alcohol found in citronella, rose, lemongrass, and geranium oils
What Pests Does Geraniol Kill?
Geraniol is effective against the following pests:
How to Apply Geraniol
Best for: Mosquito repellent. Component in essential oil pest control blends.
Avoid for: Primary insecticide for garden pest infestations.
Residual activity: Moderate for a terpene — 4-8 hours; less volatile than most essential oil compounds
Safety Profile
| Category | Rating |
|---|---|
| Bee Safety | 🟢 Safe for bees |
| Pet Safety | 🟢 Safe for pets |
| Overall Rating | Safe — Safe for kids, pets, and bees when used as directed |
Why Isn't Geraniol Working?
If Geraniol isn't delivering results, check these common failure modes:
Primarily a repellent — limited direct-kill capacity
Skin sensitizer in some individuals — patch test before body application
Efficacy data mostly from lab studies; field results less consistent
DIY Geraniol Recipe
Mosquito repellent: Mix 10 drops geraniol-rich essential oil (lemongrass or citronella) + 2 ounces carrier oil. Apply to skin. Reapply every 2-3 hours.
Best Geraniol Products
Mosquito Barrier
ConcentrateGarlic + geraniol mosquito yard spray
Essentria All Purpose
ConcentrateGeraniol-based professional formulation