Lemongrass Oil

Origin of Lemongrass Oil

Lemongrass or Cymbopodon Citratus, from which lemongrass oil is made, encompasses a number of perennial, tall, tropical grass species found and cultivated in Central and South America and the West Indies. The plant is believed to have originated in Asia. Lemongrass oil is amber or dark yellow in color and has a scent that is both sweeter and stronger than its citrus namesake. Lemongrass oil, although not related to citrus fruit essential oils, has many of the same properties and coincides with some similar uses of lemon and lime oils. Lemongrass oil is considered to have low toxicity in small doses, but its toxic properties are undetermined with regard to pregnant women and nursing children. Because of this lack of data, lemongrass oil should not be used by pregnant or nursing mothers. Although not generally reactive, cases of sensitivity have been observed in some individuals and lemongrass oil should not be inhaled, as this may cause lung damage. Like lemon and lime oil, lemongrass oil contains citral which lends itself to the trademark citrus aroma of lemongrass products.

Usage, Dosage and Toxicity of Lemongrass Oil

Lemongrass and lemongrass oil are widely used to flavor Asian and Indian cuisine. Lemongrass is used as a traditional herbal folk remedy where lemongrass oil extractives are used by making an infusion or tea by pouring boiling water over the leaves of the lemongrass plant. Due to its common use in folk medicine, lemongrass is bestowed with a plethora of medicinal properties which have not been scientifically proven.

Scientifically-based properties of lemongrass oil include attributes of an antioxidant, insect repellent, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and diuretic. Believed to be helpful for cardiac symptoms, the utility of lemongrass oil for cardiac disease sufferers is undetermined, but experiments have shown that it can reduce heart rates. Other reported, but largely undocumented uses for lemongrass include medicinal uses against cancer and diabetes. Scientific studies relating to these topics indicate inconclusive results.

Lemongrass oil is particularly favored as a massage oil, and tonic for arthritis and circulatory system improvement. As with the other essential oils we have discussed, lemongrass is used as a tonic for the nervous, respiratory, skin and digestive systems and may be used as a wound dressing. Lemongrass oil may also be used as a natural flea and tick remedy for household pets.

Origin of Lemongrass Oil | Usage, Dosage and Toxicity of Lemongrass Oil