Lemongrass, the herb with a lemon scent

Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) is a herbaceous plant native to tropical Asia, cultivated for its stems and leaves that have a fragrance and flavor close to lemon.

Thai name: ta khray
Scientific name: Cymbopogon citratus
Common names: lemongrass, Indian verbena, fragrant rush, lemongrass.

Description

It's a perennial plant that grows in sunny and humid climates.

It forms dense bushes about 1 m high.

Use of Lemongrass

This herb is widely used in Thai cuisine, such as in the famous Tom Yam Kung (Spicy Shrimp Soup).

We use the base of the fresh stems, removing the outer leaves to keep only the center.

Chopped lemongrass

Video: using lemongrass in cooking

Medicinal properties of lemongrass

For internal use

It has antispasmodic, digestive tonic and calming properties.

It is used to treat digestive and intestinal disorders, reduce flatulence and cramps.

It also has bactericidal, anti-inflammatory and hypotensive properties (decoction): against fever and colds or flu-like symptoms.

As well as a sedative effect on the nervous system: against insomnia, stress and anxiety.

Warning: it is not recommended to take lemongrass during pregnancy and breastfeeding and for children under 3 years.

For external use

It is a pain reliever: relieves joint pain (arthritis), rheumatism.

A muscle relaxant: treatment of sprains, tendonitis and strains.

A tonic: in case of febrile state or fatigue, including mental.

A variety called in Thai ta khray hom is used to prepare lotions against mosquitoes.

Effectiveness of lemongrass against mosquitoes

The anti-mosquito lotions that I was able to try with only lemongrass are not effective for very long.

You can also use fresh leaves that you crush well between your hands before applying them to exposed areas, but this is also a short-term protection.

As for planting this herb near the house to repel mosquitoes, it is ineffective.

One day I bought a pot for this use and was surprised to see mosquitoes landing on the leaves!

Source: Wikipedia; Photos: Henna, Pierreto