Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) is a perennial plant, or tropical grass in this case. You may be familiar with the distinct flavor of lemongrass in your Thai take-out........ and you may already be a fan of its refreshing, lemony, gender-neutral scent in your soaps and lotions......... but did you know that it is also full of healing properties?

FEVER REDUCER  Also known as fever grass, lemongrass essential oil is well known in the world of Ayurvedic medicine for its ability to reduce fever in two ways. First, the essential oil provides protection from fever causing infections and increases perspiration to help speed up the removal of toxins. Second, it is a natural antipyretic. In western medicine antipyretics are medications like Ibuprofen and Acetaminophen which can reduce fever by causing the hypothalamus to override a prostaglandin-induced increase in body temperature. When you take an antipyretic this results in a reduction of fever. Lemongrass essential oil works in much the same manner.

DIGESTIVE AID  Delicious lemongrass tea is popular for use as a digestive aid and is often combined with peppermint and/or ginger for this purpose.

FUNGICIDE  Both topically and internally, lemongrass can serve as an effective fungicide. It has the ability to retard and even cure fungal and bacterial infections with its high antiseptic properties.

ACNE MANAGEMENT  The essential oil in lemongrass contains antibacterial and antimicrobial components that makes it an excellent choice for oily and acne-prone skin. Additionally, the naturally occurring vitamin A has antioxidant properties that act as an anti-inflammatory to calm acne breakouts. In general skin care, lemongrass essential oil brightens and tones the skin and acts as a mild astringent that does not over-dry the skin.

HAIR CONCERNS   If you struggle with oily hair, scalp irritation, or even hair loss keep reading! Lemongrass essential oil is known to balance oil production on the scalp as well as the skin, and may help hair follicles to regain strength.

BUG REPELLENT  Some essential oils are effective at naturally repelling certain insects but not one oil is good against all. Lemongrass essential oil, closely related to citronella, is reputed to repel mosquitoes, fleas, lice and possibly even ticks.

ARTLISS TIP: To make your own easy bug repellent, add up to 15% lemongrass essential oil (if creating a blend, please be sure to research the safe percentage of each oil to be used) to a spray bottle filled with a base such as witch hazel and/or distilled water. If desired, add a small amount of a light oil, like jojoba, for moisturization. Shake before each use. You now have a natural insect repellent that is even safe for your kids! Please note that essential oils should not be used on cats, and that there are certain oils, like clove and other spice oils, that are considered harmful to dogs. If you would like more information on our pleasant smelling, tried-and-true TAKE A HIKE! Bug Repellent, click here.