Scientific Name: Cymbopogon citratus
Common Names: Lemongrass, Citronella Grass, Fever Grass, Hierba Luisa (Spanish), Tanglad (Filipino), Sereh (Indonesian), Cha Khả (Vietnamese)
Description: Lemongrass is a tropical herb known for its strong citrus aroma and flavor. It has long, slender green stalks with a lemony fragrance and is often used in cooking and herbal remedies.
Distribution: Lemongrass is native to Southeast Asia, but it is now cultivated in many tropical and subtropical regions worldwide.
Habitat: It thrives in warm and humid climates with well-drained soil. Lemongrass is often found in gardens, farms, and rural areas in tropical regions.
Culinary Use: Lemongrass is a popular ingredient in Asian cuisines, especially in Thai, Vietnamese, and Indonesian dishes. It adds a fresh, lemony taste to soups, curries, stir-fries, and marinades. The tender lower portion of the stalk is used for cooking, while the tougher upper parts are often used to infuse flavor in teas and other beverages.
Medicinal Use: Lemongrass has been used in traditional medicine for its potential health benefits. It is believed to have antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. It is commonly used to make herbal teas that are believed to aid digestion, relieve anxiety, and promote relaxation.
Fun Fact: In addition to its culinary and medicinal uses, lemongrass is used in some cultures for its fragrant and insect-repelling properties. The oil extracted from lemongrass, known as citronella oil, is commonly used in candles and sprays to repel mosquitoes and other insects. Lemongrass is also a favorite ingredient in aromatherapy due to its refreshing and uplifting scent. It is a versatile and aromatic herb that adds a unique touch to various dishes and herbal remedies around the world.
In Jamaica and other parts of the Caribbean, it is called “fever grass.” It's made into a tea that is said to combat fever and other cold/flu symptoms. A Malaysian adage says that one can find treasure beneath a lemongrass plant if one can find a lemongrass blossom. Lemongrass can be used to both repel mosquitos and attract honey bees.