Cymbopogon citratus

English Name:- Lemongrass/ Melisa grass.

Botanical Name:- Cymbopogon citratus.

Family:- POACEAE

Parts Used:- Leaves.

Habit:- A perennial herbaceous grass about 6-7 feet high, leaves 3-4 feet long.

Taste:- Bitter.

Chemical Constituents:- Plant contains: Volatile aromatic oil (Indian Melissaoil) Citronela or Indian oil of verbena which contains: Citral, Citronellal, Geraniol, Citronellal Tespene and Nevol.

Actions:- Stimulant, Diphoretic, Carminative, Diuretic, Antipyretic, Spasmolytic, Stomachic, Digestive, Appitizer.

Used In:- Cold, Fever, Vomiting, Diarrhoea, Chronic malaria, Abdominal pain, Cholera, Flatulance, Rheumatism and Lumbago.

                                                              Usages

• It provides an aromatic flavor to the dish and balances the spicy hot chills used in these cuisines.

• It detoxifies the digestive organs of the body like pancreas, liver, kidney and bladder.

• It stimulates digestion and blood circulation in the body.

• In India and some other countries it is used in making scents for soaps, perfumes and candles.

• It is also used as mosquito repellant.

• It helps in relieving stress and tension from the body.

• It treats nervous disorders, stomach ache, diarrhea, vomiting, fever, flue and headaches.

• It is used in herbal teas and other alcoholic beverages in baked goods and in confections.

• It being an antiseptic and astringent cleanse oily skin and helps close pores.

• Its oil is used to combat greasy hair and to curb perspiration.

                                                             Cautions

• People suffering from allergy should avoid its excessive use as it may boost allergy.

• It should be taken internally by children, pregnant women and breast feeding mothers or people suffering from lever or kidney diseases.

• Avoid any contact of this herb with the eyes as it can cause irritation in the eyes and respiratory tract.

           Disclaimer

Information on the traditional uses and properties of herbs provided on the site is for educational use only, and is not intended as medical advice. Every attempt has been made for accuracy but none is guaranteed. Many traditional uses and properties of this herb have not been validated by the FDA. If you have any serious health concern you should consult with your health care practitioner before self administering this herb