Lemongrass (Cymbopogon flexnous)

Lemongrass essential oil has a light, citrus aroma and is distilled from the long slender, grass like leaves. It is said that lemongrass helps rejuvenate the mind and has been found to improve mental clarity. It has also been the subject of research published in the Phytotherapy Research Journal, where it was found to have powerful properties when applied topically to the skin, namely its anti-fungal action.

The well-known book that contains information on the use of oils made from plants is the Bible. But the Israelites were not the first people aware of the aromatic and healing properties of herbs and oils. A terracotta distiller found in Pakistan, now housed in the Taxila Museum, is believed by experts to be around 5000 years old.

Dating back to that same time in India is the oldest form of medicine, Ayurveda (Sanskrit for “science of life”). In the Ayuvedic tradition, herbs and aromatic oils were an important part of the philosophy of healing. Their literature from 2000 B.C. contains lists of over 700 substances used for incense, perfumes and oils for medical and culinary uses. Lemongrass was and is used by the Ayuvedics to bring down fevers and treat infectious diseases.

Please read how to use therapeutic grade essential oils before purchasing or using them.

Still taught today is the ancient healing of Thai massage. Folk history is of adults working long days in the fields and coming home at night, stiff and aching from the hard labor. Their children filled porous bags with healing herbs such as yellow ginger and lemongrass for steamed herb packs, herbal baths and hot tea. The children would get into the tub with their parents and pull and stretch their parent’s muscles and to open their joints so the herbs could do their healing and analgesic work. This helped them get a good night sleep and have a productive next day. Lemongrass oil can be used in your bath too.

The Essential Oils Desk Reference guide to using essential oils, states lemongrass is antifungal, antibacterial, anti-parasitic, anti-inflammatory, regenerates connective tissues and ligaments, dilates blood vessels, improves circulation and promotes lymph flow.

Lemongrass is being used by many with connective tissue problems ranging from torn rotator cuffs, to slap tears, injury to muscles, ligaments and tendons, strengthening muscles around the eye (DO NOT get or put essential oils in eyes), used as a natural blood thinner, for sinus and respiratory complaints, bladder infections, varicose veins, Salmonella, digestive problems and fluid retention.

Recently the country of Israel published a report showing lemongrass effective against cancer cells.

Sweet lemony-smelling Lemongrass oil diffused can clear smoke and banish unpleasant odors.

It is uplifting, refreshing and revitalizing to the mind and body and relieves some of the symptoms of jetlag, depression, fatigue, nervous exhaustion and stress related conditions. It helps mental clarity and clears headaches.

Lemongrass oil has great benefits as a muscle and skin toner. It is excellent for post-diet saggy skin. It helps regenerate connective tissue and ligaments, dilates blood vessels and promotes lymph flow.

Because it strengthens vascular walls and helps with poor circulation, it is indicated for edema, fluid retention, some kidney disorders, hemorrhoids, and varicose veins.

Please read how to use therapeutic grade essential oils before purchasing or using them.

It is useful with respiratory problems, sore throats, laryngitis, and fever. It may help prevent the spreading of infectious diseases. It’s helpful with digestion and digestive problems such as indigestion, colitis, and gastroenteritis. It may improve eyesight. Lemongrass oil also assists in clearing up oily skin and acne; a good rinse for greasy hair and, added to shampoo, aids in adding a shine to the hair. As an antifungal it’s helpful with athlete’s foot. Lemongrass works as an insect repellant and helps keep family pets free from fleas and ticks.

When applied to the skin, some dilution may be necessary as lemongrass has a tendency to cause what looks like a rash – it really is only enhancing blood flow, but can be unsightly and itch.

Topical: Dilute 1 part lemongrass to 4 parts Young Living V-6 oil or olive oil.

It may be added to food and rice milk. It is used in Thai, Vietnamese and Caribbean cooking for it’s lemony flavor. Commonly used in teas, soups and curries and suitable for poultry, fish and seafood.

ONLY use therapeutic grade essential oils, like those available through my website for topical and cooking purposes. Please, never use a cheap essential oil as doing so can be dangerous due to adulteration and chemicals.

Disclaimer: any information provided here is for your better understanding of essential oils and is not intended to treat, diagnose, prescribe. Use therapeutic grade essentail oils mindfully as they are very powerful and not of the same quality of those found in stores. Keep all essential oils out of children’s reach. Please seak medical attention if you have a condition requiring assistance.

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