Lemongrass

Cymbopogon citratus

Lemongrass is a hardy grass that’s adored for its citrusy scent, lemony taste, and golden hue when steeped as a tea. We incorporate lemongrass in our formulas at low enough amounts to simply impart its natural flavor and fragrance benefits.

HERBAL BENEFITS

Common Name Barbed wire grass, citronella grass, cochin grass, fever grass, Malabar grass

Family Name Poaceae

Parts Used Leaf, whole young shoots

Herbal Actions Antispasmodic, diaphoretic, nervine

Health Benefits Digestion, Relaxation, Stress Relief

More Lemongrass info

As its name implies, “Lemongrass” is a grass with lemon-like aroma.

What are the Benefits of Lemongrass? This citrusy green grass packs a zing in many Southeast Asian dishes, like green curry and tom kha gai. However, it’s more than a culinary treat; it’s been used traditionally in folk medicine in India, Thailand, Brazil, and beyond for centuries.

Lemongrass is aromatic, slightly bitter, and cooling. It can help increase perspiration when we feel overheated, and is often used to ease occasional stress and mild digestive tension or cramping.

The essential oil of lemongrass is incredibly popular and contains citral and citronellal, both known for their relaxing qualities. Many use lemongrass, or its sister plant citronella, in candles or diffused as an essential oil to repel insects and pesky mosquitos. Its allure to humans makes it a common ingredient in soaps, oils, hair products, and perfumery for its light and uplifting aroma.

Native to India and Sri Lanka and naturalized throughout Southeast Asia, this botanical thrives in tropical climates and is synonymous with traditional tropical Asian cuisines. Curries, soups, stews, slow-cooked meats, fish, rice, and teas are commonly infused with the hearts of the young shoots or stalks of lemongrass. It’s often paired with coconut milk, ginger, and chili—and its bright and citrusy taste makes any dish more exciting.

Lemongrass gained international popularity during the early spice trade era when it became beloved and grown outside its home in the Asian tropics. It’s now used as a tea to boost immunity in the Caribbean and to ease anxiety in Brazilian folk medicine. In Hoodoo, it’s the primary ingredient in van van oil and is used to clear energy and bring the wearer good luck.

Products that contain Lemongrass

Additional Information

Important Precautions

Consult a healthcare practitioner prior to use if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Legal Disclaimer

The information and other content in this article are designed to provide a general overview of the botany, cultural history, and traditional uses of this herb. It is not intended and should not be construed as health advice. Every person is unique and you should consult with your health care provider before using any herbal product or supplement.

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More Lemongrass info

Products that contain Lemongrass

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Nighty Night® Tea

Healthy Cycle® Tea

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