Lemongrass, also called lemongrass, is a first cousin of the well-known citronella. It is a large tropical herb with a unmistakable lemon aroma with culinary and also medicinal uses. Its essential oil is highly appreciated in aromatherapy.
A promising essential oil
This aromatic plant is highly appreciated for flavoring dishes and infusions especially in Asian countries. There are two species of lemongrass: Cymbopogon citratus and the Cymbopogon flexuosus. Both are cultivated to extract their valuable essential oil, which is produced in Asia (China, India, Thailand, Vietnam, Sri Lanka), Africa (Ethiopia), Central America and South America (Guatemala, Brazil).
In Thailand and other Southeast Asian countries, lemongrass is widely used as an aromatic seasoning, but it is also prized for take care of the scalp. A clinical study carried out in Thailand with 30 people showed its effectiveness in significantly reducing dandruff. The study was based on the use of an alcoholic preparation with 10% lemongrass essential oil.
Another interesting study revealed the antitumor properties of this essential oil, especially in skin tumors and leukemia. However, more studies are still necessary to investigate its possible applications in this field.
Properties of lemongrass or lemongrass
The aroma of lemongrass essential oil is especially nice. It can be described as sparkling, bubbly, fresh and very appetizing. Its smell evokes lemon candies or the much appreciated fresh summer colognes.
A careful sniff is enough to observe its relaxing effect and its stimulating action on the digestive system: whets the appetite and causes salivation. Its aroma awakens joy, optimism, enthusiasm and the desire to do things, to move.
This essential oil has numerous therapeutic properties and many other applications. Its antimicrobial, antiviral, anxiolytic, circulatory and anti-inflammatory properties stand out. This makes it interesting to try:
- The cellulitis, herpes and other viral conditions.
- Nervous disorders especially those related to stress.
It will be very useful for us lack of concentration and will be of great help to those who are trapped in negative thoughts or rumination.
This essential oil is also a good alternative to citronella when we want to keep mosquitoes away.
How to use essential oil
Lemongrass essential oil will be very useful in the following situations:
To give an oriental touch to your wok
Lemongrass essential oil will combine well with any type of wok. Just before serving, add 2 drops of essential oil previously diluted with a little coconut oil.
These 2 drops are appropriate for a wok prepared for 4 people.
To give shine to the hair as well as a good smell
In a 50 ml glass vaporizer, put 15 drops of lemongrass essential oil and fill it with water (or better yet with ylang ylang hydrolate). Shake well and spray into your damp hair.
If you have oily hairadd 2 tablespoons of cider vinegar to the mixture, this will help you keep your hair clean for longer. Vinegar also adds shine.
For cellulite
Lemongrass essential oil is a wonderful skin tonic and an excellent anti-cellulite. Mix the following ingredients in a 100 ml glass bottle with a dispenser:
- 57 ml of organic aloe vera gel
- 40 ml jojoba vegetable oil
- 3 ml lemongrass essential oil (90 drops)
- 5 drops of vitamin E
Shake vigorously so that the mixture emulsifies and applies to areas where cellulite usually appears.
If the mixture is separated between each useshake again before using to mix and emulsify again.
In addition to preventing cellulite and taking care of your skin, this oily gel will help you start the day very well. good mood and motivation.
Problems concentrating, stress or lack of motivation
It is ideal for times of study or those that generate stress. To use it in these situations and take advantage of its relaxing properties, the ideal is to prepare a roll-on.
In a 5 ml roll-on we will put 20 drops of essential oil and we will complete with jojoba oil. We will apply on the wrists and behind the ears as many times as we need it.
For cold sores
Here also the ideal is to introduce the formula in a roll-on.
Do it like this: In a 5 ml roll-on, put 3 drops of essential oil and complete with black cumin vegetable oil. Apply to the affected area 4 to 5 times a day until the problem is resolved.
For high blood pressure
Lemongrass essential oil can be useful for regulating blood pressure, especially that related to stress.
If you suffer from hypertension, dilute 2 drops of essential oil with 6 drops of vegetable oil and give yourself a wrist massage one to two times a day.
Precautions and contraindications
Lemongrass essential oil has no contraindications or toxicity in the doses usually recommended in aromatherapy.
We will use it dilutedsince it is somewhat irritating.
It is possible to use it during pregnancy after the first trimester and during breastfeeding. Children can also benefit from this cheerful essential oil as long as the instructions and precautions for use are respected.