Lemon Grass, Citronella grass

Cymbopogon citratus

Physical Characteristics

Cymbopogon citratus is an evergreen Perennial growing to 1.5 m (5ft) by 1.5 m (5ft) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 10 and is frost tender. The plant is self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils and can grow in very alkaline soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil and can tolerate drought. The plant can tolerates strong winds but not maritime exposure.

Distribution

A tropical plant, not known in the wild, but probably originating in Sri Lanka or Malaysia.

Habitats

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Leaves Oil Shoots Stem Edible Uses: Oil The heart of the young shoots is eaten as a vegetable with rice[ 301 ]. The basal portions of the leafy shoots have a delicious lemon-like aroma and are used as a flavouring in soups, sauces and curries[ 301 , K ]. Older leaves can be cooked with other foods in order to impart their lemon-like flavour. They are removed before serving[ 301 ]. A refreshing tea can be brewed from the leaves[ 301 ]. It can be served hot or cold[ 301 ]. It can be sweetened with sugar[ 521 ]. The essential oil is used as a flavouring in the food industry in soft drinks and various foods[ 238 , 418 ].

Medicinal Uses

Lemongrass was one of the herbs that was transported along the spice route from Asia to Europe. Lemon grass is a bitter, aromatic, cooling herb that increases perspiration and relieves spasms[ 238 ]. The essential oil obtained from the plant is an effective antifungal and antibacterial[ 238 ]. The essential oil contains about 70% citral, plus citronellal - both of these are markedly sedative[ 254 ]. Internally, the plant is used principally as a tea in the treatment of digestive problems, where it relaxes the muscles of the stomach and gut, relieving cramping pains and flatulence[ 254 ]. It is particularly useful for children, for whom it is also used to treat minor feverish illnesses[ 238 , 254 ]. Externally, especially in the form of the extracted essential oil, the plant is a very effective treatment for a range of conditions including athlete's foot, ringworm, lice and scabies[ 238 ]. It is also applied to ease the pain of arthritic joints[ 254 ].

Known Hazards

Handling plant may cause skin irritation or allergic reaction