Cymbopogon Citratus Leaf/Stem Oil

Cymbopogon Citratus Leaf/Stem Oil and pregnancy

Caution Advised

• Absorbed into the body

Cymbopogon citratus (lemongrass) oil is a highly concentrated essential oil containing 70-85% citral along with other volatile compounds. Essential oils are lipophilic and can penetrate the skin barrier more readily than many other cosmetic ingredients. While there are no conclusive human studies showing harm from topical lemongrass oil during pregnancy, essential oils in general raise concerns due to their potential for systemic absorption and bioactive compounds. Some aromatherapy guidelines recommend caution with lemongrass oil during pregnancy, particularly in the first trimester, though evidence is limited. The high citral content may cause skin sensitivity, which can be more pronounced during pregnancy. Many obstetricians and aromatherapists suggest avoiding or limiting highly concentrated essential oils during pregnancy as a precautionary measure. If used, lemongrass oil should be well-diluted in cosmetic formulations. Pregnant women with sensitive skin or a history of allergies should be particularly cautious.

Cymbopogon Citratus Leaf/Stem Oil and breastfeeding

Safe to Use

Lemongrass essential oil applied topically in cosmetic formulations poses minimal concerns for breastfeeding women when used in small amounts away from the breast area. The oil's volatile compounds can be absorbed through the skin, but typical cosmetic concentrations and applications result in low systemic exposure. The primary concern would be if the product is applied near the breast where infants could ingest it or be exposed to the strong fragrance. Essential oils should not be applied to breast tissue or areas where the infant's face will contact the skin. Most lactation consultants consider topical use of diluted lemongrass oil in cosmetics acceptable during breastfeeding, provided the application is away from the breastfeeding area and the infant is not directly exposed to the scent or residue.

Cymbopogon Citratus Leaf/Stem Oil and postpartum

Safe to Use

• Common allergen
• Irritant

For postpartum women not breastfeeding, lemongrass oil presents mainly dermatological concerns rather than reproductive ones. The high citral content can cause contact sensitization and irritation, particularly on skin that may already be sensitive postpartum. The antioxidant properties of lemongrass oil may provide some benefits for skin health, though the risk of irritation should be weighed against these benefits. Women with no history of essential oil sensitivity can typically use products containing diluted lemongrass oil without issue.

Cymbopogon Citratus Leaf/Stem Oil and trying to conceive

Safe to Use

There is no evidence that topical use of lemongrass oil in cosmetic formulations affects fertility or conception. While some aromatherapy sources suggest caution with essential oils when trying to conceive, this is typically precautionary advice without strong scientific backing for topical cosmetic use. Women trying to conceive can generally continue using products with lemongrass oil, though switching to gentler alternatives as pregnancy is achieved may be advisable given the precautionary guidance for pregnancy.

Cymbopogon Citratus Leaf/Stem Oil and PCOS

Safe to Use

Lemongrass oil has no known hormonal activity and does not interact with androgen or insulin pathways relevant to PCOS. Some research suggests citral may have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that could theoretically benefit inflammatory skin conditions. For women with PCOS experiencing acne or oily skin, lemongrass oil's antimicrobial properties might offer benefits, though its irritancy potential should be considered. The ingredient does not interfere with PCOS management or hormonal treatments.

Cymbopogon Citratus Leaf/Stem Oil and general use

Caution Advised

• Common allergen
• Irritant
• Increases sun sensitivity

Lemongrass oil is a common essential oil in cosmetics and personal care products, prized for its fresh citrus scent. However, its high citral content (70-85%) makes it a potent skin sensitizer and one of the more allergenic essential oils. According to the EU Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, citral is a known contact allergen that can cause allergic contact dermatitis with repeated exposure. The International Fragrance Association has established concentration limits for citral-containing oils. Lemongrass oil can also cause irritation and photosensitivity, particularly in individuals with sensitive skin or at higher concentrations. Those with sensitive skin, eczema, or a history of fragrance allergies should avoid or patch test products containing lemongrass oil. The EU requires labeling of citral in cosmetics due to its allergenicity. When used in properly formulated and diluted cosmetic products following IFRA guidelines, most people tolerate it well.

Everything else flagged for the same profiles

• Flagged in pregnancy

Related ingredients

Ingredients that raise the same concerns.

• Citrus Aurantium Bergamia Fruit OilIncreases sun sensitivity, Irritant, Common allergen
• PapainIncreases sun sensitivity, Irritant, Common allergen
• D-LimoneneIncreases sun sensitivity, Irritant, Common allergen
• Lavandula Hybrida OilIncreases sun sensitivity, Irritant, Common allergen
• Litsea Cubeba Fruit OilIncreases sun sensitivity, Irritant, Common allergen
• Cymbopogon Schoenanthus OilIncreases sun sensitivity, Irritant, Common allergen

Where this came from

Truva summarises published guidance from bodies including ACOG, the FDA, the EU SCCS and the Cosmetic Ingredient Review. It has no access to your medical history and it is not a substitute for your doctor, dermatologist or midwife. These assessments have not been reviewed by a clinician, and nothing here is a diagnosis or a prescription. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding or being treated for PCOS, take the ingredient list to the person looking after you.

Assessment last pulled from the ingredient database on 15 September 2026.