Botanical Name: Cymbopogon citratus

Types of Plant: Herbaceous

Part of the Plant used: Stems, leaves

Description: Lemon Grass, scientifically known as Cymbopogon citratus, is a tropical perennial herb belonging to the Poaceae family. It is native to South Asia and Southeast Asia but is cultivated in many parts of the world for its culinary, medicinal, and ornamental uses. Lemon Grass is characterized by its tall, slender stems, long, narrow leaves, and lemony fragrance. It is widely used in cooking, herbal medicine, aromatherapy, and as a natural insect repellent.

Benefits:

• Culinary Uses: Lemon Grass is prized for its citrusy flavor and aroma, which adds a refreshing zest to culinary dishes. It is commonly used in Southeast Asian cuisine to flavor soups, curries, stir-fries, marinades, and beverages. Lemon Grass imparts a bright, tangy flavor to dishes and pairs well with other herbs and spices.
• Medicinal Uses: Lemon Grass has a long history of use in traditional medicine systems such as Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). The leaves and stems contain essential oils, citral, and other bioactive compounds that exhibit antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. Lemon Grass is used to alleviate digestive issues, reduce fever, relieve pain and inflammation, and promote relaxation.
• Aromatherapy: Lemon Grass essential oil is popular in aromatherapy for its uplifting and invigorating properties. The fresh, citrusy scent of Lemon Grass oil is believed to reduce stress, improve mood, and enhance mental clarity. It is commonly used in diffusers, massage oils, bath products, and natural perfumes.
• Insect Repellent: Lemon Grass is a natural insect repellent due to its high citronella content. It is often planted in gardens and outdoor spaces to deter mosquitoes, flies, and other pests. Lemon Grass essential oil can also be diluted and applied topically to repel insects from the skin.

Cultivation:

Growing Conditions:

• Sunlight: Lemon Grass thrives in full sunlight but can tolerate partial shade. It requires at least 6-8 hours of sunlight per day for optimal growth.
• Soil: Well-draining, fertile soil with a pH level between 6.0 and 7.5 is ideal for Lemon Grass. It prefers loamy or sandy soil enriched with organic matter.
• Water: Keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Water Lemon Grass regularly, especially during hot, dry periods, to promote healthy growth.
• Climate: Lemon Grass is native to tropical regions and prefers warm temperatures between 70°F to 95°F (21°C to 35°C). It is sensitive to frost and should be protected during cold weather.

Harvesting and Storage of Lemon Grass:

• Harvest Lemon Grass stems and leaves as needed for fresh use or drying.
• Use a sharp knife or scissors to cut the stems close to the base of the plant.
• Store fresh Lemon Grass stems and leaves in the refrigerator for up to one week.
• To dry Lemon Grass, hang the harvested stems upside down in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight. Once dry, store the leaves in an airtight container in a cool, dark place.