Cymbopogon citratus
Lemongrass
Poaceae
Identity
- Common Name
- Lemongrass
- Scientific Name
- Cymbopogon citratus
- Botanical Family
- Poaceae
- Native Region
- Southeast Asia and India
- Cultivation Regions
- Southeast Asia, India, Africa, Caribbean
- Plant Parts Used
- Leaves, Stem base
- Synonyms
- Fever Grass, Citronella Grass, Sereh
- Caffeine Level
- Caffeine Free
A clump-forming tropical grass up to 1.5 m tall with long narrow sword-like leaves that arch gracefully from a bulbous, pale, aromatic stem base used in cooking and tea.
Historical Background
Lemongrass has been a beloved aromatic across Southeast Asia, India, and the Caribbean for centuries, prized in Thai curries, Ayurvedic preparations, and refreshing cooling teas. Its bright citrus scent comes from citronellal and citral, making it a staple of both kitchen and teapot.
Earliest recorded uses: Traditional in Southeast Asian and Indian cuisine and medicine for centuries.
Traditional preparations:
- Leaf infusion
- Thai-style tea with ginger
- Iced lemongrass-ginger tea
Traditional Uses
These uses document historical traditions and do not imply proven effectiveness.
Ayurveda
Cooling digestive, calming tea for fevers and digestion.
Modern Herbalism
Refreshing aromatic digestive and cooling tea.
Flavor & Aroma
Aroma: Bright, lemony, fresh, grassy
Tea Information
Safety & Cautions
Research Summary
Lemongrass has a long tradition as a digestive and cooling aromatic tea. Preclinical work shows antioxidant and antimicrobial activity (citral); clinical evidence is limited and it is not a treatment for digestive disease, infection, or any condition.
Evidence levels reflect the currently available scientific literature and may change as new research emerges. Where evidence is limited or conflicting, this is stated plainly.
References & Sources
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