Lemongrass
Cymbopogon flexuosus (East Indian Lemongrass), Cymbopogon citratus (West Indian Lemongrass)History
Lemongrass likely originated in either India, Sri Lanka or Malaysia. Though the fleshy white base of Lemongrass is widely used in Southeast Asian cuisine to flavor beverages, dishes, and baked goods, Lemongrass has a long history of cosmetic and medicinal use among many cultures. It has been used to treat ailments such as digestive complaints, fever, menstrual discomfort, pain, inflammation, and nervous and emotional disorders. Lemongrass tea has been used to soothe stress, alleviate colds, fevers, treat bladder disorders and inflammatory conditions of the urinary tract, kidney stones, etc.
Lemongrass essential oil is extracted from the tough and indedible leaves rather than the base, and it has been used to preserve food due to its antimicrobial activities and is prized for its fragrance in the cosmetic and perfume industry.
Fever Grass
Lemongrass essential oil has the ability to bring down fever. It also helps to refresh and stimulate the mind and body
USE: Diffusion | Topical
Essential oil: Produced by steam distillation of the leaves. When the Lemongrass leaves are crushed, bruised, or chopped, they release a strong, fresh, lemony fragrance. This essential oil is pale yellow in color and has a fresh, herbaceous aroma. Lemongrass is chock full of aromatic components including linalool, menthol, eugenol, geraniol, myrcene, and cinnamic aldehyde — all of which have antibacterial effects.
Tea or infusion: Natural diuretic. Helps with indigestion, nausea, and stomach pain. Protects the stomach against gastric ulcers. Boosts metabolism and may help in weightloss. Antioxidant. Lowers blood pressure. Helps with sore throat and in reducing fevers.
Blends Well With
- Bergamot
- Carrot Seed
- Cedarwood
- Citronella
- Geranium
- Grapefruit
- Jasmine
- Lavender
- Lemon
- Neroli
- Marjoram
- Rosemary
- Tea tree
Key Benefits
- Refreshing
- Tonic properties for skin
- Antiseptic
- Antiviral
- Antifungal
- Deodorizing
- Insect repellent
- Hair shine
- Cools and reduces fever
- Strengthens agains infectious diseases
- Stimulates circulation
- Eliminates lactic acid: eases muscular aches and pains
- Eases depression
- Diuretic
Safety
Not safe for sensitive skin: May cause irritation to sensitive or damaged skin. Do a patch test to check for any reactions.
Safe dermal concentration: For non-sensitive skin types, use a maximum dilution rate of 0.7% for topical applications
Possible drug interactions: Do not take if you are on medication.
Do not ingest
Do not use if diabetic
Not safe for children or nursing women
Not safe for pregnant women: Can stimulate menstrual flow
Bee swarms: Honey bees are highly attracted to the smell of Lemongrass (apparently it emits the same scent as the queen bee pheromones). Be careful during the spring and summer months if you are allergic to bee stings.
Topical Application
Toning
0.7% dilution for topical application:
- 2 drops of Lemongrass
- 2 tsp (10 mL) carrier oil OR lotion
Use in a massage to strengthen muscle tone and slack tissues, treat aching muscles, or muscle strains.
Achy Muscles
1% dilution for topical application:
- 2 drops of Lemongrass
- 1 drop of Frankincense
- 2 tsp (10 mL) carrier oil OR lotion
Use in a massage after a hard workout to decrease muscle soreness and help speed recovery.
Facewash
- 1 drop of Lemongrass
- half tablespoon castille soap
Add a drop of Lemongrass to natural liquid soap to get even and glowing skin (and to take advantage of its antiseptic and astringent properties).
Diffusing Blends
Sunshine in the Rain
- 5 drops Lemongrass
- 12 drops Lavender
- 7 drops Lime (steam distilled)
Yellow Starburst
- 4 drops Bergamot
- 1 drop Lemongrass
Brand New Day
- 3 drops Lavender
- 2 drops Lemongrass
- 1 drop Peppermint
Explorer
- 3 drops Lemongrass
- 2 drops Eucalyptus
- 1 drop Lavender
Deodorizer
- 3 drops Peppermint
- 3 drops Lemongrass
Journey to the Hills
- 3 drops Lemongrass
- 2 drops Juniper Berry
- 2 drops Cedarwood (any variety)