Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) is a tropical grass that is native to Asia and Africa. It grows up to 4-6 feet in height, with long, thin leaves and a distinctive citrus-like aroma. Lemongrass essential oil is extracted from the leaves and stalks of the plant through steam distillation.
Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) is a tropical grass that is native to Asia and Africa. It is a tall, perennial plant that can grow up to 4-6 feet in height, with long, thin leaves and a distinctive citrus-like aroma. The botanical name “Cymbopogon” is derived from the Greek words “kymbe,” meaning “boat,” and “pogon,” meaning “beard,” a reference to the shape of the plant's inflorescence. The species “citratus” refers to the lemon-like scent of the plant.
Lemongrass essential oil is extracted from the leaves and stalks of the plant through steam distillation. The oil has a fresh, lemony scent and is known for its uplifting and energizing properties. It can be inhaled directly, added to a diffuser, or diluted with a carrier oil and applied topically to the skin. Lemongrass is a versatile oil that is widely used in pharma, home & personal care, food & beverage and aromatherapy industries.
- Botanical Name : Cymbopogon citratus
- CAS# : 8007-02-1
- Origin : Southeast Asia and Australia
- Method of Extraction : Steam Distillation
- Source : Leaves
- Solubility : Soluble in Alcohol
- Color & Odor : Pale yellow in colour and has an intense, lemony smell
- Constituents : neral, isoneral, geranial, isogeranial, geraniol, geranyl acetate, citronellal, citronellol, germacrene-D, and elemol
- Specific Gravity : 0.80 to 0.903
- Flash Point : > 93.33 °C
- Optical Rotation : - 3 to + 1
- Major Constituents : citral (mixture of geranial and neral), isoneral, isogeranial, geraniol, geranyl acetate, citronellal, citronellol, germacrene-D, and elemol
Lemongrass essential oil has a wide range of applications and benefits, some of the most notable include:
- Aromatherapy: The refreshing and uplifting aroma of lemongrass essential oil makes it a popular choice for aromatherapy. Inhaling the oil or adding it to a diffuser can help to reduce stress, anxiety, and fatigue, and promote a feeling of well-being.
- Muscle pain relief: Lemongrass essential oil is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, which make it effective in reducing muscle and joint pain.
- Digestion: Lemongrass essential oil has been traditionally used to improve digestion, relieve stomach cramps, and reduce bloating.
- Fever reduction: Lemongrass essential oil has been used for centuries to reduce fever.
- Natural insect repellent: Lemongrass essential oil has natural insect-repellent properties which makes it a good option to use as a natural bug spray.
- Hair and Skin Care: Lemongrass essential oil can be used to promote healthy hair growth, and to help reduce the appearance of oily skin and acne.
- Cleaning: The oil is also a natural cleaner, it can be added to laundry, dishwasher and other cleaning solutions to leave a fresh and calming scent in the surroundings.
- Cooking: Culinary uses of lemongrass essential oil are limited, but it can be used in marinades, curries, and teas for a unique lemony flavor.
- Preservative: The natural preservative properties of Lemongrass essential oil make it a valuable ingredient in the formulation of food products and cosmetics to extend their shelf life.
It's important to note that lemongrass essential oil should be used in moderation and always be diluted before using it topically, as it can cause skin irritation in some people. Always consult a healthcare professional before using any essential oil.
