Lemongrass - Cymbopogon flexuosus

11:57 AM Posted by jo

Do you have a hard time getting started in the morning? Lemongrass may be the right oil for you, according to Fisher-Rizzi, lemongrass is considered a secret aid for people who have trouble starting in the morning. She says the effect of the lemongrass aroma is like taking refreshing shower in the morning.

Origin and common name

C.flexuosus is also known as East Indian lemongrass. Lemongrass oil can be produced from two different species of Cymbopogon. C.citratus and C. flexuosos are tufted perennial grassed with numerous stiff stems arising from a short rhizomatous rootstock. C. flexuosos is the what I'm going to focus on today. It is native of India, which is also the major producer of East Indian lemongrass.

Aroma

It has a very strong, fresh grassy, herbaceous and citrus aroma. Lemongrass promotes psychic awareness and purification. The refreshing aroma is uplifting and refreshing. Battaglia says it aids our logical thinking and it is ideal to use at home or at work where clear thinking and concentration are needed.

Historical and traditional uses

Lemongrass was originally used as food flavor in Asia. The fresh leaves are crushed in water and used as a hair wash in India.

Indications, therapeutic actions, and traditional uses

Lemongrass has traditionally been used for digestion and purification. According to Battaglia, lemongrass is considered a stimulant for the digestive system and is recommended for colitis, gastroenteritis, and indigestion. Lemongrass is also, according to Battaglia, referred to as the connective tissue oil. It is recommended in the after-care of sports injuries, sprains, dislocations, and bruises.

Gary Young suggests lemongrass for bladder infection, parasites, edema, fluid retention, kidney disorders, varicose veins and torn ligaments. Young says lemongrass may help improve digestion, circulation, and eye sight, as well as combat infections, respiratory problems, headaches, sore throat.

Young also says lemongrass tones and helps regenerate connective tissues and ligaments, strengthen vascular walls, and promotes lymph flow.

Precautions

Possible skin sensitivity. If pregnant or under a doctor's care, consult your physician. Always dilute. Keep out of reach of children. Do not use near fire, flame, heat or spark.

Before you leave:

I recommend that you always perform a skin patch test when you try a new oil.

Check out my safety page to make sure you are aware of any contrindications before you use essential oils. Some oils are not suitable when suffering from certain conditions. Also, Read this Before You Start Using Essential oils. Some oils should not be applied prior to sun exposure so make sure you check this list before spending time in the sun.

Not sure how to apply the oils? Visit these pages to learn how to apply the oils:

Topical Application

Inhaling Essential Oils

Are You Diffusing the Oils Correctly?

How to Dilute Essential Oils

Vita Flex Technique

If you're new to essential oils you might want to check out my Getting Started Guide.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Johanna is an aromatherapist and an she is passionate about educating people about health, essential oils, real food, natural remedies, and nutrition so they make healthier choices in their lives.
Follow Johanna on twitter and facebook for more health tips and information.