Lemongrass

Lemongrass is a member of the grass family. Lemongrass leaves are used as a flavoring agent in culinary preparations. The oil extracted from lemongrass, also known as citronella, is used in medicines and aromatherapy. The leaves are used in Thai and Indonesian dishes, curries, soups, stew, tea and salad. The lemongrass plant grows up to a height of 6 feet, and bears long leaves along the stem. It is a native of India and tropical Asia.

Part used: Leaves (fresh and dried)

Chemical composition: Essential oils Citronella, linalool, geraniol, and limonene.

Medical benefits:

• The leaves of lemongrass are boiled to make tea and added to soups. The oil is used for various medical purposes. Lemongrass tea mixed with pepper is used as an Ayurvedic medicine for treating menstruation and nausea. The oil and tea are analgesic and anti-inflammatory.

• Lemongrass tea is used treat respiratory problems such as fever, cold and cough.

• Lemongrass tea is diuretic. It removes toxins from the body, reduces inflammation, uric acid, cholesterol and excessive fats.

• Lemongrass is a digestive. It reduces flatulence and is effective in treating Salmonellosis.

• The oil improves blood circulation. It is a nervine and reduces stress, and helps treat depression, headache, insomnia and jet lag.

• The oil strengthens connective tissue, helps remove skin infections and is commonly used as a skin tonic. It is used in skin formulations to reduce acne.

• Oil is used as insect repellent.

Contraindications: Citronella oil is for external use only.

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