Lemongrass (Cymbopogon Citratus)

Lemongrass has a very strong, cool, stimulating, fresh, tangy, and lemon-like scent. It's scent is stimulating to the left side of the brain, and may be particularly effective for our logical thinking processes and lack of concentration. The oil is pale yellow and is distilled from the leaves of the grass.

Lemongrass is:
  • antiseptic
  • anti-fungal
  • analgesic
  • astringent
  • antidepressant
  • anti-parasitic
  • deodorant
  • diuretic
  • nervine
  • anti-inflammatory
  • insecticide
  • digestive
  • revitalizing
Common uses include treating:
  • vertigo
  • intestinal infections
  • depression
  • edema
  • bladder infections
  • parasites
  • varicose veins
  • headaches
  • skin parasites, athlete's foot
  • fever
  • jet lag
  • irritability
  • muscle soreness
  • indigestion
  • arthritis
  • oily skin and hair

This oil blends very well with basil, cedarwood, eucalyptus, geranium, lavender, juniper, lime, melaleuca and rosemary.

Insects dislike the smell of lemongrass. Use it as an air spray or diffuse the oil and the pests will leave. Add 15 drops of lemongrass to 3oz (90ml) of mild, unscented shampoo and use it to bathe your pets.

Lemongrass can be irritating to sensitive skin or in high concentrations. Lemongrass is generally listed as safe to use during pregnancy.