Lemongrass

Description

Cymbopogon is a genus of Asian, African, Australian, and tropical island plants from the Poaceae family.

While Cymbopogon winterianus, known as citronella, has a scent similar to lemon balm and is used as a repellent, Cymbopogon flexuosus and citratus have a fragrance more akin to lemon and are used in cooking.

East Indian lemongrass (Cymbopogon flexuosus), also known as Cochin grass or Malabar grass, originates from Cambodia, Vietnam, Laos, India, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, and Thailand, while West Indian lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) comes from coastal Southeast Asia. Both of these plants can be used interchangeably, but C. citratus is more suitable for cooking and is also found in stores in the form of light stalks.

Effects and Usage

The refreshing scent stimulates during prolonged strain, aids concentration, is suitable for smoky environments, and has beneficial effects in treating sprains, swelling, and bruises.