Lemongrass is a slender-leafed, tropical grass with a fresh, citrus scent. It has been cultivated and distilled since the1880s, starting in Kevala, India. Lemongrass essential oil is extracted through steam distillation of dried lemongrass.
Lemongrass is known by the scientific names Cymbopogon Citratus or Andropogon Citratus. As the name implies, lemongrass smells like lemons, but it is milder, sweeter and earthy. Lemongrass blends well with many other essential oils including: eucalyptus, geranium, juniper, lavender, rose, basil, bergamot, cedarwood, clary sage, cypress, orange, patchouli, rosemary, tea tree, thyme, and ylang ylang.
Aromatherapists value lemongrass for its ability to calm and revitalize, relieve tension, invigorate, and inspire.
Lemograss has healing properties such as: analgesic, antifungal, antidepressant, antimicrobial, antipyretic, anti-candida, antiseptic, sedative, astringent, deodorant, diuretic, and insecticidal.
Keep in mind:
- Undiluted or concentrated lemongrass oil should not be applied directly on the body as it may result in harmful reactions. It is always advisable to keep pure lemongrass oil out of the reach of children.
- It is strongly recommended to consult a health professional before considering lemongrass oil for therapeutic usage during special conditions such as pregnancy, when trying to conceive, breastfeeding, and during the course of any ongoing medical treatments.
Lemongrass would be a great addition to a DIY bug spray or DIY antibacterial oil blend. Other applications for lemongrass oil include:
- Mix with a carrier oil (grapeseed, coconut, sweet almond are all good options) and apply directly to area of discomfort such as achy joints or muscles.
- Place in vaporizer to reduce nervousness and energize with the bonus of a vaporized insect repellent.
- To treat skin infections, make a compress by adding several drops of lemongrass oil in water and soaking a cloth in the mixture. Apply the cloth to affected area for 5 minutes.
