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Lemongrass Facts

Lemongrass Facts
Lemongrass, also known as citronella grass, is a type of flowering plant that belongs to the family of grasses. It originates from southern parts of India and Shi Lanka. Lemongrass can be found in subtropical and tropical areas. It grows on fertile, well-drained, sandy and loamy soil, exposed to direct sunlight. Lemongrass requires plenty of rain during the growing season. People cultivate and use lemongrass mostly as condiment. Lemongrass is also cultivated in ornamental purposes and used as a source of scented oil.
Interesting Lemongrass Facts:
Lemongrass has stiff stems which grow in the form of dense clumps. Plant can reach 2 to 4 feet in height and 3 feet in diameter.
Lemongrass produces bluish green, thin, blade-like leaves with drooping, pointed tips. Leaves change color from green to red during the autumn. Crushed leaves emit lemony aroma.
Lemongrass produces small, white, creamy or green flowers, densely packed in terminal spikes. Flowers of lemongrass are designed for pollination by wind.
Fruit of lemongrass is caryopsis (type of dry fruit which does not split to release seed).
Lemongrass propagates via division of the rhizome. Plant is ready for the harvest 6 to 8 months after planting (when stalks reach diameter of 0.5 inches).
Fresh stalks and leaf buds of lemongrass are used as condiment. They are rich source of vitamins of the B group, vitamins A and C and minerals such as potassium, zinc, calcium and iron.
Lemongrass can be used fresh, dried or in the form of powder. It represents an integral part of Asian cuisine. Lemongrass has lemony, ginger-like taste that perfectly complements dishes made of meat, fish and seafood. It is also used for the preparation of soups, marinades and sauces.
Lemongrass can be also consumed in the form of herbal teas, cocktails and other refreshing beverages.
Lemongrass is used for the manufacture of tea bags in Jamaica.
Essential oils obtained from the lemongrass can be used to prevent insect bites (these oils effectively repel mosquitoes). Lemongrass can be also used instead of conventional pesticides to repel whiteflies and other pest insects from the gardens.
Essential oils of lemongrass are common ingredients of massage oils and candles that are used in aromatherapy.
Lemongrass is often used in the cosmetic industry for the manufacture of perfumes, soaps and deodorants.
Lemongrass can be used in treatment of stress, insomnia, flatulence, poor digestion and for detoxification of the body. Tea made of lemongrass can be used as diuretic. Essential oils of lemongrass mixed with pepper can be used in treatment of menstrual disorders and nausea.
Lemongrass is known as "Sweet Rush" in the Caribbean, where it is mostly used in treatment of common cold and fever.
Lemongrass is perennial plant that usually lives around 4 years in the wild.


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