Lemongrass Leaves (Cymbopogon citratus)

TL;DR: Lemongrass leaves are a fragrant herb commonly used in teas and cooking, prized for their citrusy aroma and potential calming effects. Many people enjoy them brewed as a warm or iced infusion, appreciating their mild flavor and refreshing qualities. While generally safe as a culinary herb, caution is advised with concentrated extracts or essential oils.

Quick Definition

Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) is a tropical grass known for its lemon-scented leaves. It is widely used in culinary and herbal traditions for its distinctive aroma and potential soothing properties.

Who it's for / Who should skip

Decision criteria

• Choose if you want a gentle, lemony herbal tea
• Choose if you prefer natural, minimally processed herbs
• Skip if you have known allergies to related plants
• Skip if you plan to ingest essential oils internally

Brew Basics

Use water just off boil (~956C). Add 2–3 g (about 1 tsp) dried lemongrass leaves per 240 ml (1 cup). Steep for 5–7 minutes, adjusting steep time for strength. Re-steep once or twice for lighter cups. Serve hot or chilled with optional honey or fresh ginger.

Taste/Use Tuning

If too bitter, reduce steep time or use less leaf. For a brighter flavor, add a slice of fresh ginger or a sprig of mint. Sweeten lightly with honey or natural sweeteners to balance grassy notes.

Rituals

• Enjoy a warm cup mid-afternoon to unwind without caffeine.
• Serve iced lemongrass tea with lemon slices on warm days for a refreshing drink.
• Use lemongrass infusion as a gentle digestive aid after meals.

Sourcing & Quality

Look for organically grown lemongrass leaves, preferably whole and dried with minimal processing. Packaging should be low-impact, airtight, and opaque to preserve freshness. Leaves are preferred over stalks for tea due to ease of infusion and flavor clarity.

Storage

Store dried lemongrass leaves in airtight containers away from heat, light, and moisture to maintain aroma and prevent mold. Proper storage can preserve quality for up to 12 months.

Comparison Table

Safety

Lemongrass leaves used as tea are generally considered safe for most people. Essential oils derived from lemongrass are highly concentrated and should not be ingested without professional guidance. Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals should consult healthcare providers before use. Allergic reactions are rare but possible in sensitive individuals.

FAQ

Can I drink lemongrass tea daily?

Many people enjoy it daily in moderate amounts, but individual tolerance varies.

Is lemongrass tea caffeine-free?

Yes, lemongrass leaves contain no caffeine.

Can I use fresh lemongrass leaves for tea?

Yes, fresh leaves can be used but may require longer steeping.

What is the difference between lemongrass leaves and essential oil?

Leaves are used as a mild infusion; essential oils are concentrated extracts not recommended for ingestion.

Does lemongrass have medicinal properties?

It is traditionally used for soothing effects, but scientific evidence is limited and cautious language is advised.

Sources

• Wawstock.com – Lemongrass Leaves Health Benefits and Uses
• National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (nccih.nih.gov)
• American Botanical Council (herbalgram.org)