Fresh Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) – Zesty Citrus Aroma & Ayurvedic Powerhouse

Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) is a tall, fragrant perennial herb cherished across Asia for its fresh, lemony scent and versatile culinary and medicinal uses. Native to tropical and subtropical regions, this herb’s slender, pointed green leaves grow in dense clumps and are a staple ingredient in Southeast Asian and Indian kitchens. Its invigorating citrus flavor adds zest to dishes, teas, and even natural remedies.

🛠️ Growing & Care Tips:

• Soil: Prefers fertile, well-drained clay soils rich in organic matter; dislikes soggy conditions. Ideal pH: slightly acidic to neutral.

• Sunlight: Requires full sun (6+ hours daily) for optimal growth and essential oil production.

• Water: Keep soil consistently damp but not waterlogged; frequent watering during growing season and dry spells. Established plants tolerate some drought.

• Climate: Thrives in warm, humid tropical and subtropical climates; frost sensitive. Grow in pots and move indoors in cold zones.

• Propagation: Easily propagated via stem cuttings or rhizome division; seeds less reliable.

• Pests/Diseases: Generally hardy; may suffer rust or spider mite infestations under stress. Good airflow helps prevent problems.

🌟 Key Benefits & Uses:

Culinary:

• Essential in Southeast Asian cuisines (Thai, Vietnamese, Malay, Indonesian) and South Indian cooking.

• Use the tender white and light-green stem parts fresh, dried, or powdered for curries, soups (e.g., Tom Yum), marinades, stir-fries, and teas.

• Leaves also flavor desserts, drinks, and perfumes.

Health & Tradition:

• Ayurvedic and traditional medicine treasure lemongrass for digestive aid, calming effects, and relief from bloating, cramps, fever, and colds.

• Possesses anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, analgesic, and diaphoretic properties.

• Mild insect repellent.

Nutrition & Active Compounds:

• Rich in citral, the key aromatic and medicinal compound.

• Contains geraniol, limonene, myrcene, antioxidants, vitamins A & C, and minerals (potassium, magnesium, iron).

• Not a major macronutrient source but valued for essential oils and health effects.