| Field | Detail |
|---|---|
| Botanical Name | Cymbopogon citratus (or Cymbopogon flexuosus, depending on region) |
| Pronunciation | LEM-on-grass |
| Common Names | Lemongrass, West Indian Lemongrass, East Indian Lemongrass |
| Plant Family | Poaceae (Grass Family) |
| Plant Part Used | Fresh or partially dried leaves |
| Extraction Method | Steam Distillation |
| Origin Regions | India, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Guatemala, and parts of Africa and South America |
Description
Lemongrass essential oil is one of nature’s most refreshing, purifying, and energizing aromatic treasures. Distilled from the tall, tropical grass Cymbopogon citratus or Cymbopogon flexuosus, it offers a bright, lemony, and slightly earthy scent that instantly enlivens the senses. Its fragrance is sharper and more herbaceous than that of citrus oils, carrying subtle green and spicy undertones that reflect its robust natural vitality.
Used for centuries in Ayurvedic and Southeast Asian traditional medicine, Lemongrass was prized for its ability to purify the body, refresh the mind, and repel insects. Its invigorating aroma made it a staple in temple cleaning rituals, herbal infusions, and massage therapies designed to awaken the body’s energy and encourage detoxification.
Today, Lemongrass essential oil is beloved worldwide for its antimicrobial, deodorizing, and restorative properties. It helps support healthy digestion, immune resilience, and circulation, while also toning and clarifying the skin. Emotionally, Lemongrass acts as a mental cleanser — sweeping away lethargy, confusion, and discouragement. Its aroma refreshes focus and reawakens motivation.
Spiritually, Lemongrass symbolizes renewal and purification, aligning perfectly with intentions of clarity, courage, and energetic cleansing. It is an excellent oil to use before meditation, work, or creative tasks when you want to feel sharp, grounded, and uplifted.
In essence, Lemongrass essential oil embodies the strength of sunlight and the clarity of rain — cutting through stagnation to reveal freshness, focus, and renewed vitality.
History & Background
| Era / Region | Traditional Use | Notable Facts |
|---|---|---|
| Ancient India | Ayurvedic medicine | Used for fever, infections, and circulation support |
| Southeast Asia | Culinary & purification | Common in soups, teas, and spiritual cleansing |
| Colonial Era | Trade & perfumery | Exported for use in soaps, tonics, and fragrances |
| Modern Aromatherapy | Cleansing & energizing | Popular for natural cleaning, massage, and focus blends |
In both tropical kitchens and healing temples, Lemongrass served as a bridge between physical cleansing and emotional purification — a tradition still reflected in its aromatherapy use today.
Aroma Profile
| Attribute | Description |
|---|---|
| Aroma Type | Fresh, lemony, green, earthy, and slightly spicy |
| Scent Strength | Strong (Top to Middle Note) |
| Blends Well With | Eucalyptus, Rosemary, Lavender, Cedarwood, and Peppermint |
Lemongrass brightens and enlivens blends, giving structure and lift to herbal and woody notes while balancing heavier base oils.
Chemical Composition
| Compound | Approx. % | Function |
|---|---|---|
| Citral (Geranial + Neral) | 65–85% | Cleansing, antimicrobial, uplifting |
| Geraniol | 5–10% | Sweet, floral note; toning and balancing |
| Limonene | 1–5% | Bright, detoxifying, and mood-lifting |
| Myrcene | 1–3% | Anti-inflammatory, relaxing |
| β-Caryophyllene | 1–2% | Grounding, antioxidant |
| Linalool | 0.5–1.5% | Calming, skin-supportive |
Its high citral content gives Lemongrass its sharp, clean scent and potent purifying power — ideal for cleansing both air and skin.
Cautions & Safety
| Type | Guidance |
|---|---|
| Internal Use | Not for internal use. |
| Topical Use | Dilute to 0.5–1.5%. Can irritate sensitive skin. |
| Pregnancy / Children | Avoid during pregnancy; use caution with children under 6. |
| Photosensitivity | Non-phototoxic. |
| Storage | Keep sealed and stored in a cool, dark place. Replace every 1–2 years for freshness. |
Because of its strong citral content, Lemongrass can cause irritation on delicate or broken skin — always dilute well.
Uses & Application Steps
Lemongrass essential oil is valued for its purifying, energizing, and mood-brightening properties.
Aromatic Use
- Diffuse 2–4 drops to purify air and energize the environment.
- Inhale directly to improve focus or awaken the mind.
- Blend with Peppermint or Lemon for a cheerful, productive atmosphere.
Topical Use
- Dilute 1 drop in 1 teaspoon (5 mL) carrier oil for massage or skincare.
- Apply to sore or fatigued muscles for post-exercise relief.
- Use in DIY deodorants or surface sprays for natural cleansing.
Massage or Bath Use
- Mix 3–4 drops with 1 tablespoon carrier oil for a stimulating massage.
- Add to warm bathwater (well diluted) for full-body rejuvenation.
- Blend with Rosemary and Cypress for circulation and focus support.
Emotional & Spiritual Use
- Diffuse during journaling or meditation to release mental clutter.
- Apply (diluted) to wrists or temples to awaken clarity and courage.
- Use in space-clearing rituals or morning routines for mental renewal.
Further Reading & External Links
| Source | URL |
|---|---|
| AromaWeb — Lemongrass Essential Oil Profile | https://www.aromaweb.com/essential-oils/lemongrass-essential-oil.php |
| Eden Botanicals — Lemongrass Essential Oil | https://www.edenbotanicals.com/lemongrass.html |
| Florihana — Lemongrass Organic Essential Oil | https://www.florihana.com/us/essential-oils/175-lemongrass-organic-3700343010921.html |
| Plant Therapy — Lemongrass Essential Oil | https://www.planttherapy.com/products/lemongrass-essential-oil |
| PubChem — Citral Compound Summary | https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/638011 |
Citations & References
- Tisserand, R., & Young, R. (2014). Essential Oil Safety (2nd ed.). Elsevier.
- PubChem Database — Citral (CID: 638011).
- IFRA Standards, 2024 Update.
- AromaWeb — Lemongrass Essential Oil Profile.
- Eden Botanicals — Lemongrass Essential Oil Data Sheet.
Conclusion
Lemongrass essential oil is a beacon of clarity, vitality, and cleansing power. Its crisp, lemony aroma cuts through fatigue and negativity, inspiring focus, courage, and productivity.
Emotionally, it clears stagnation and promotes confidence. Physically, it supports healthy circulation, digestion, and purification. Spiritually, it purifies the mind and environment, helping align intention with forward movement.
Lemongrass reminds us that energy and light are always within reach — we simply need to clear what’s heavy, breathe deeply, and let the fresh air in.
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is for educational purposes only and has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This content is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before using any essential oil. Conduct your own research by reviewing all citations and references listed above.