Botanical Information For Lemongrass
Plant History
The origins of lemongrass come from tropical climates such as; Africa, Asia, Southeast Asia, Australia and Oceanic countries. There are two main types of lemongrass, Cymbopogon Citratus and Cymbopogon Flexuosus. C. Citratus is often used in Indian, Chinese and Thai cuisine to aid in digestion and C. Flexuosus is mainly used in essential oil therapy. Lemongrass is sometimes referred to as “fever grass” because it can help break high body temperatures when lemongrass leaves are muddled into tea. This plant has also been used for it’s antimicrobial properties and can treat infection, kill pesky bugs, help in cold and flu recovery and can alleviate muscle stiffness by increasing circulation. In 1905, thetherapeutic properties of this plant peaked and in 1947, lemongrass began to be grown commercially in Florida & Haiti.
Botanical Information
Lemongrass belongs to the Poaceae family which is also home to 55 other plant species. These plants are a perennial herb and grow in clusters, often reaching 2 meters in diameter, with leaves that can grow up to 1 meter in length. These plants can also have a fragrant aroma, bringing freshness to the areas they are grown.
Growing Information
Lemongrass needs a warm, humid climate with full sunlight in order to survive. In North America this plant would thrivebest in southern USA. You can grow lemongrass indoors or in a greenhouse, just ensure to replicate a tropical environment and plant in a pot using rich, well-draining soil and ensure the roots don’t dry out. This plant also needs to be fertilized every couple of weeks during its growing season.
Parts of The Plant That's Used For Lemongrass Essential Oil
Once lemongrass blades reach 12” in height and the base of the stems are 1/2” thick, they can be harvested. The whole shoot can be used, the base of the stalk is edible and used in many dishes, suc as coconut curries and the leaves can be used in teas or for oil extraction.
Lemongrass Oil Information
Extraction Method For Lemongrass Essential Oil
Lemongrass oil is extracted through steam distillation, as are most essential oils. Fresh leaves or freeze dried leaves are used in the extraction process. The leaves are placed in a chamber of the steaming still and as the steam heats up, it pulls the essential oil out of the leaves. The steam and oil then travel through the apparatus and when they reach a holding chamber, the temperature cools, causing it to re-liquify. The mixture is then carried through to the separator and the oil is siphoned off the water and used in essential oils, while the fragrant water is commonly used in cosmetics and to scent products.
Active Ingredients Found In Lemongrass Essential Oil
The main active ingredients in Lemongrass are; Mycrene, Citronellal, Geranyl Acetate, Nerol, Geraniol, Neral, Limonene and Citral.
Lemongrass Essential Oil Applications & Benefits
Invigorate, Revitalize, Uplift
Lemongrass oil is very uplifting and invigorating. It’s citrusy scent helps boost energy and mood. If you’re looking for a mid-afternoon energy boost, you can incorporate lemongrass oil to your daily routine:
- Add 10-12 drops of lemongrass essential oil to a diffuser
- Mix 1 drop of lemongrass essential oil with 1 drop carrier oil (grapeseed, jojoba oil) and rub onto your wrists and neck
- Fill a spray bottle with water and add 3-4 drops lemongrass oil, shake and use as a make up setting spray or skin freshener to help energize your spirit and skin.
- Mix 3-4 drops lemongrass oil to a spray bottle filled with water, shake and use as a room freshener.
Pests Be Gone
Lemongrass oil makes for a great repellant because it’s not only effective and chemical free, but it smells great too. To use as a repellant:
- Mix 5 drops lemongrass oil to a rollerball filled with jojoba oil and rub on wrists, ankles and behind the ears or anywhere else that’s exposed
- Diffuse 10 drops of lemongrass oil in a diffuser in your backyard or house to keep mosquitos, flies and fleas out of your home
- Mix 5 drops lemongrass oil and 3 drops citronella oil in a spritz bottle filled with witch hazel and water, shake well and spray over clothing as needed.
Immune Support
Lemongrass has great anti-bacterial properties and can fight bacteria that causes cold and flu. Lemongrass can also help regulate body temperature. To use lemongrass to help combat the cold season:
- Add 3-5 drops of lemongrass essential oil in 3 cups of boiling water, place face 14 inches from bowl, close eyes and slowly inhale the steam.
- Diffuse 10 drops of lemongrass oil in a diffuser and use as you would a vaporizer
- Add 2 drops of lemongrass oil per 2 drops of your favourite carrier oil (tamanu, jojoba) and apply it to your temples and chest to inhale during sleep.
Headache Relief
Lemongrass oil makes a great headache remedy and can revitalize your mood at the same time. If you find yourself being effected by headache pain, but don’t have time to nap it off, these remedies can help:
- Diffuse 10-15 drops of lemongrass oil in a diffuser
- Mix 3 drops lemongrass oil to a rollerball filled with jojoba oil and massage on temples and base of neck
- Add 3 drops of lemongrass oil to a bowl of hot or cold water and place a cloth in the water. Wring it out and lay or tie the cloth on forehead or at the base of your neck, depending where the headache tension is coming from. Inhale deeply for 15-20 minutes.
Stress & Sleep Support
Revitalizing as lemongrass can be, it can also have calming properties depending on how it’s used. Many spas use lemongrass infused oils and creams to create a relaxing atmosphere. To help feel more relaxed with lemongrass:
- In a small spray bottle; add 1 ounce of witch hazel, 10 drops of lemongrass oil and 5 drops lavender essential oil. Mix with 3 ounces of water and just before bed, spray on your bed linens or pajamas for a restful nights sleep.
- Diffuse 10-12 drops of lemongrass oil and 5 drops jasmine oil 30 minutes before bed and let it run into the night
- Apply 2-3 drops of lemongrass oil into your favourite unscented body cream or lotion and massage over body before bed.
Shopping For Quality Lemongrass Oil
When buying Lemongrass oil, you will want to follow the information listed above. Opt for one that is steam distilled as this creates an oil that's pure and clean. You can find high quality Lemongrass essential Oils here.
