Lemongrass is a type of grass, with more than 55 different species, each having its own unique properties. It is a tropical plant that is native to Asia, Africa, and Australia. Lemongrass has red base stems, which can grow up to 3 metres in ideal conditions. Each stalk of lemongrass contains several layers, each growing tightly wrapped around the core. The top layers are tough and green, similar to that of the outer layer of cornhusks. The inner white core of the lemongrass stalk is used in cooking.
One species, Cymbopogon nardus, is not edible, however it contains citronella oil, which is used in bug sprays and candles. Its lemon-like scent is irritating to mosquitoes. It can be purchased as an oil that can be used topically. Its effects only last about 20 minutes, but it is a good alternative to DEET containing bug-sprays, if you want to avoid using chemicals on your skin. Lemongrass can also be planted outside to act as an insect repellant in those areas where you spend time outdoors.
The main chemicals in citronella are geraniol and citronellol, oils which have antiseptic properties, and are used in household disinfectants and soaps. Citronellol is mostly used to improve the scent of hair and skincare products, such as shampoos and lotions. Geraniol is an antioxidant and has anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties. It has been proven to treat candida infections, which can infect various parts of the body. It also has a depressant effect on the central nervous system bringing on a feeling of calmness and relaxation which helps to relieve anxiety and promotes good sleep. The calming effect can also relieve muscles spasms, increase appetite, and act as a diuretic to rid the body of excess fluids.
Lemongrass oil is also used to expel worms and other parasites from the intestines. Some studies have found that lemongrass oil applied to the scalp can help reduce dandruff. Other health benefits include lowering cholesterol and boosting red blood cells. Chewing lemongrass can prevent the bacteria forming that causes cavities.
Lemongrass oils can be purchased fresh, as a tea or as an oil
Other species of lemongrass (particularly Cymbopogon citratus) are cultivated as culinary and medicinal herbs because of their scent, resembling that of lemons. It has long been a staple ingredient in many Thai dishes around the world. In foods, it can be used in its fresh, dried, or powdered forms. The lemon flavour withstands prolonged cooking, making it perfect for slow cooked stews. It can also be added to teas, sauces, salads, soups, and broths. Some people add it to desserts because of its lemony flavour.
When using lemongrass in its fresh form, cut off the lower bulb and remove the tough outer leaves. The main stalk (the yellow section) is what is used in cooking. You can cut the yellow stalk into 5 to 7 cm lengths and then crush the stalks either by bending them or using a rolling pin. Also, if you create superficial cuts along these sections with your knife, it will help release the lemon flavor. Simply add the stalks to your food. When serving, remove the lemongrass pieces from the dish you have prepared.
One cup of lemongrass contains 17 grams of carbohydrates, 0.3 grams of fat, and 1.2 grams of protein. It also contains the vitamins, A, C, B2, B3, B6 and folate as well as the minerals calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, sodium, zinc, copper, manganese and selenium.
When buying lemongrass, look for firm stalks as they produce the best flavour. The lower stalk should be pale yellow, while the upper stalks are green. It can be stored in the fridge, tightly wrapped, for up to two weeks and can also be frozen. The stalks can also be cut into small pieces and dried, and then ground to a powder to be used in food.
“The Lord has given some simple herbs of the field that at times are beneficial; and if every family were educated in how to use these herbs in case of sickness, much suffering might be prevented, and no doctor need be called. These old-fashioned, simple herbs, used intelligently, would have recovered many sick, who have died under drug medication.” —The Place of Herbs in Rational Therapy (Pamphlet).