Lemongrass

Scientific Names

Lemongrass

Cymbopogon citratus
Cymbopogon flexuosus
Poaceae family
Gramineae family

Common Names

West Indian Lemongrass

East Indian Lemongrass

Citronella Grass

Fever Grass

Sereh

Tanglad

Parts Usually Used

Stalks (especially the lower bulbous stems), leaves, and essential oil
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Lemongrass plant

Description of Plant(s) and Culture

Lemongrass is a tall, perennial grass that grows in dense clumps that can reach heights of 6 to 10 feet. The leaves are long, slender, and blade-like, growing 2-3 feet in length and less than an inch wide. They have sharp edges and a strong citrus fragrance when crushed. The plant forms dense clumps with bulbous stems at the base. It rarely flowers in cultivation. The plant requires full sun and well-drained soil, thriving in tropical and subtropical climates. It’s frost-sensitive and grows best in zones 8-11.
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Where Found

Native to Southeast Asia, particularly India, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Malaysia. Now cultivated worldwide in tropical and subtropical regions, including parts of Africa, Central and South America, and the Caribbean.
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Medicinal Properties

Antioxidant
Anti-inflammatory
Antimicrobial
Anxiolytic
Antipyretic
Diuretic
Carminative

Biochemical Information

Contains several bioactive compounds including:

Citral (main component)
Myrcene
Geraniol
Citronellol
Limonene
Essential oils (0.2-0.5%)
Flavonoids
Phenolic compounds
Terpenes

Legends, Myths and Stories

Lemongrass has been used for thousands of years in Asian cuisine and traditional medicine. In many cultures, it’s considered a sacred plant used in spiritual cleansing rituals. Traditional Ayurvedic medicine has long valued it for treating fever, hence its common name “fever grass.” In various cultures, it’s believed to ward off evil spirits and bring good luck when planted around homes.
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Uses

Digestive issues (bloating, gas, stomach cramps), Anxiety and stress relief, Fever reduction, Pain relief, Blood pressure regulation, Blood sugar management, Sleep promotion, Oral health, Skin conditions, Muscle pain relief
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