Lemongrass Leaves: Health Benefits, Uses, and Brewing Guide

Common names: Lemongrass, Citronella Grass

TL;DR

Lemongrass leaves, from the Cymbopogon genus, are widely used in teas and culinary dishes for their citrusy aroma and potential calming effects. Many people use dried leaves brewed as tea to enjoy their flavor and mild benefits. However, essential oils extracted from lemongrass are highly concentrated and should not be ingested. Lemongrass tea is best enjoyed fresh and stored properly to maintain quality.

Who it's for / Who should skip

Decision criteria

• Choose if you prefer natural, low-impact herbal teas with citrus notes.
• Choose dried leaves over essential oils for safe consumption.
• Avoid if you have known allergies to grasses or citrus plants.
• Consider storage and freshness for best flavor and safety.

Brew Basics

Use water just off the boil (~95C/203F). Measure 2–3 g (≈1 tsp) of dried lemongrass leaves per 250 ml (1 cup) water. Steep for 5 to 7 minutes. Re-steeping once is possible but expect a lighter flavor. Serve hot or chilled with optional additions like honey or lemon slices.

Taste/Use Tuning

If the tea tastes too bitter, reduce steeping time or use fewer leaves. For a milder flavor, blend with mint or green tea. To enhance sweetness, add a small amount of honey or natural sweetener. Avoid adding too much lemon which can overpower the natural citrus notes.

Rituals

• Enjoy a warm cup of lemongrass tea in the afternoon to unwind with a book.
• Use fresh lemongrass leaves in cooking to add a bright citrus aroma to soups and curries.
• Prepare iced lemongrass tea with a sprig of mint for a refreshing summer drink.

Sourcing & Quality

Look for organically grown lemongrass leaves harvested and dried with minimal processing to preserve aroma and flavor. Packaging should be low-impact, such as recyclable paper or compostable bags. Prefer whole leaves over powders or crushed forms for better quality and longer shelf life. Avoid leaves with excessive moisture to prevent mold.

Storage

Store dried lemongrass leaves in airtight containers away from heat, moisture, and direct sunlight. A cool, dark pantry or cupboard is ideal. Proper storage helps maintain flavor and reduces risk of spoilage.

Comparison Table

Safety

Lemongrass leaves used as tea or culinary herb are generally considered safe for most people. Essential oils extracted from lemongrass are highly concentrated and should not be ingested due to potential toxicity. Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals and those with allergies to grasses or citrus should consult healthcare professionals before use. Always distinguish between dried leaves for consumption and essential oils for topical or aromatic use.

FAQ

Can I drink lemongrass tea daily?

Many people enjoy it daily in moderate amounts, but listen to your body and consult a professional if unsure.

Is lemongrass tea caffeine-free?

Yes, lemongrass tea is naturally caffeine-free.

Can I use fresh lemongrass leaves instead of dried?

Yes, fresh leaves can be used but may require longer steeping and have a slightly different flavor profile.

Is it safe to ingest lemongrass essential oil?

No, essential oils are highly concentrated and not recommended for ingestion.

How should I store lemongrass leaves?

In airtight containers, away from moisture and light, in a cool place.

Does lemongrass have medicinal properties?

Some people use it traditionally for mild calming effects, but scientific evidence is limited and it should not replace medical treatment.

Sources

• Wawstock - wawstock.com
• Herbal Medicine Institute - herbalmedicineinstitute.com
• American Botanical Council - herbalgram.org