Lemongrass (cymbopogon citratus), like its namesake, is really a tall grass, of tropical origin. It comes from the exact same family as citronella (Cymbopogon nardus). It grows in dense clumps with a bulbous bottom with a long stem and leaves at the very top end. It multiplies easily by dividing its root clumps. It is really a perennial plant. Lemongrass has a fresh lemony aroma with hints of ginger. The origin of its gas may be the freshly cut and partially dried leaves obtained through steam distillation. When the acrylic is burned, the aroma imparts an inviting, clear, clean, and simple-back-to-basic atmosphere. It revives your head and relaxes the body. It is often used as an anti depressant, a diuretic, a general tonic, a stimulant, to induce perspiration, therefore, cooling your body, a mild insect repellent, a deodorant, a sedative, for indigestion, and for exhaustion. Lemongrass gas is common as an additive to soaps and cosmetics. However, it may cause skin sensitivity in some individuals who've allergies.
Additionally, it repels negative energy for those who are spiritually inclined. South American folk medicine employs the plant as an antispasmodic, analgesic, antiseptic cure. The Chinese treat abdominal pains, stomach aches, headaches with it while in India they boil the fresh or dried leaves to treat rheumatic pains. An appealing study made time ago claimed that lemongrass can help cut down on cholesterol. After 3 months, some participants had pointed out that their cholesterol was down several points. But if they stopped taking lemongrass their cholesterol returned to previous levels. The residual group did not register any change. How much lemongrass to take had not been established with any certainty. It is most beneficial to seek professional advice when it comes to health matters. As there is little evidence to support its oral dosage, the medicinal usage of lemongrass is, therefore, considered a placebo. Personally, I enjoy the taste of lemongrass tea taken either hot or cold.
The taste is much less tart as lemon juice but is simply as effective following a large meal. I love to mix lemongrass tea with ginger juice. It provides a twang of spiciness that I thoroughly enjoy. Just place in 2 or 3 thinly cut ginger pieces right into a glass of lemongrass tea and pour boiling water. Wait a few momemts and enjoy. Do not put too many ginger slices in or you'll feel like sandpaper being washed down your throat. Cooking with lemongrass is popular especially in Thai and Vietnamese cuisines. Endless recipes are available in Sri Lankan, Indian, Malaysian and Indonesian meals. Like many other herbs and plants, lemongrass use is really as varied as the imagination can soar. But care should be used especially using its used in aromatherapy. Don't ingest the fundamental oil.