Buzz
What creates the distinctive aroma of Ivory Soap? The answer lies in the often-overlooked lemongrass essential oil. Native to India and Sri Lanka, this fast-growing, tall perennial grass has become a staple in Southeast Asian cuisines, particularly in Thai fish soups and curries. Its popularity has now spread to North America, where it is increasingly found in aromatherapy products and other goods.
Renowned as a medicinal and culinary herb in regions like South and Central America, Southeast Asia, and the Caribbean, lemongrass is often referred to as 'fever grass.' For centuries, India’s Ayurvedic tradition has utilized it to combat cholera and fevers. As an affordable essential oil, it is commonly used to impart a lemon fragrance to cosmetics and hair products. Its refreshing scent also enhances soaps, perfumes, and deodorants, while its flavor is a key ingredient in many canned and frozen foods. It’s no surprise that lemongrass ranks among the top ten essential oils globally.
Lemongrass is often blended with similar oils like palmarosa (C. martini), which has a lemon-rose aroma, and citronella (C. nardus), known for its insect-repelling properties. These oils are sometimes used to dilute more expensive essential oils such as melissa and lemon verbena. Palmarosa is a popular ingredient in skincare products, while citronella is widely recognized for its ability to repel insects and cleanse. The yellow to amber oil is extracted from the partially dried leaves of these grasses.
Principal constituents of lemongrass: Citral (up to 85 percent), myrcene, citronellol, dipentene, farnesol, furfurol, geraniol, and many more
Scent of lemongrass: The aroma is a blend of lemon, herbal, and grassy notes with a hint of bitterness. Palmarosa offers a delightful rose-like fragrance, while citronella is intensely lemony.
Therapeutic properties of lemongrass: Known for its antiseptic, deodorizing, and astringent qualities, lemongrass also alleviates rheumatic pain and soothes the nervous system.
Uses for lemongrass: In traditional medicine, lemongrass is often consumed as a tea or used in foot baths, allowing patients to benefit from both its medicinal properties and aromatic effects. It is effective in treating pain caused by indigestion, rheumatism, and nerve-related issues. Studies have shown that its refreshing scent can reduce headaches, irritability, and drowsiness. For a foot bath, mix 3 drops of lemongrass oil with 2-3 quarts of warm water, soak your feet for 20 minutes, or add a few drops to your bath. It also serves as a potent antiseptic for skin infections, particularly ringworm and sores, outperforming antibiotics like penicillin and streptomycin in combating staph infections.
When incorporated into hair conditioners, facial toners, or vinegar solutions, lemongrass helps control oily hair and acne by reducing sebum production. Mix 12 drops of essential oil per ounce of apple cider vinegar and apply to affected areas. This solution can also be sprayed in the air or on surfaces to repel insects and prevent mold growth. It’s a great addition to pet shampoos for its bug-repelling properties.
Warnings about lemongrass: While nontoxic, it may cause skin sensitivity in certain individuals.
To learn more about Aromatherapy and other alternative medicines, see:
- Aromatherapy: Discover the fundamentals of aromatherapy, including its mechanisms, the role of essential oils, and practical applications.
- Essential Oils Profiles: Explore detailed profiles of numerous plants used to produce essential oils, including their properties and preparation methods.
- How to Treat Common Conditions With Aromatherapy: Find out how aromatherapy can address various health issues, from asthma to skin conditions, with practical treatment tips.
- Home Remedies: Access a collection of over a hundred safe and proven home remedies for a wide range of health concerns.
- Herbal Remedies: Learn about herbal treatments, which share historical roots with aromatherapy, and explore profiles and instructions for using herbs to treat medical conditions.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Kathi Keville is the director of the American Herb Association and editor of its Quarterly newsletter. With over 25 years of experience as a writer, photographer, consultant, and educator in aromatherapy and herbal medicine, she has authored several books, including Aromatherapy: The Complete Guide to the Healing Art and Pocket Guide to Aromatherapy. She has also contributed over 150 articles to publications like New Age Journal, The Herb Companion, and New Herbal Remedies.
This information is intended for informational purposes only and is not meant to provide medical advice. The Editors of Consumer Guide (R), Publications International, Ltd., the author, and the publisher are not responsible for any outcomes resulting from treatments, procedures, exercises, dietary changes, actions, or applications of medication based on this content. This publication does not constitute medical practice, nor does it replace professional advice from a physician or healthcare provider. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any treatment.
