Lemongrass

Cymbopogon citratus

Belonging to the Poaceae family, lemongrass oil is obtained by distillation from two species of grasses which grow wild and are also cultivated in Madras, Malay, the West Indies. Distillation takes place from July to January and about 100 kilos of grass are needed to yield 21 kgs of oil. It is one of the largest production essential oils -over 2000 tons a year being distilled. The oil is the color of dry sherry and has a lemonish smell which is very powerful.

General properties

• antiviral
• antiseptic
• stomachic
• carminative
• digestive
• stimulant
• uplifting

Blends well with

• geranium
• jasmine
• lavender

General uses

• indigestion
• colitis
• oily skin
• acne
• colic
• flatulence
• fluid retention
• insufficiency of milk in nursing mothers
• open pores
• scabies
• athlete's foot
• insect repellent

Caution

Consult a professional aromatherapist before use. Sometimes used to adulterate other oils to produce an aroma that smells either of rose or verbena.