Lemongrass Essential Oil: Benefits, Uses & Properties

From an antiseptic to insect repellent, lemongrass essential oil not only has many medicinal benefits, but can also be used in and around the home. Lemongrass is used in a variety of Chinese and Thai dishes as well as teas and tonics.

Identification

• Lemongrass is a perennial herb native to India. The West Indian lemongrass is known as Cymbopogon citratus and the East Indian variety is known as Cymbopogon flexuosus. Lemongrass plants are clump-forming grasses that are also found in Guatemala, China, Indochina and Sri Lanka. In India, lemongrass is sometimes called "choomana poolu" and "Indian Verbena."

Essential Oil

• The oil made from lemongrass leaves by steam distillation results in a sweet, lemon-smelling compound due to the main aldehyde it contains, citral. Hence, the higher the citral content, the more potent the oil.

Medicinal Benefits

• Lemongrass essential oil has a variety of medicinal properties. It can be used as a sedative, antidepressant, antimicrobial, fever-reducer, antiseptic, deodorant and astringent. Lemongrass oil can also be used to alleviate jet lag and relieve tension.

Beauty Aid

• Essential oils made from lemongrass have also been used in perfumes, deodorants, detergents, soaps and creams. It is a beneficial massage oil, relieving sore, achy muscles and improving blood circulation. Oily skin, acne and athlete's foot are no match for lemongrass.

Home Uses

• Because it contains citronellal, lemongrass oil is a beneficial insect repellent. It can even be used on pets to fight fleas and ticks. Used in an oil burner or vaporizer, lemongrass oil is a refreshing room deodorizer.

Warning

• Lemongrass essential oil can irritate those with sensitive skin. Always use the oil sparingly and diluted.