cymbopogon citratus
Cymbopogon citratus is clump-forming grass up to 1.2 m tall or 2 m tall when in flower. The leaves are light green and strap-shaped and exude a lemony scent when crushed. Since it is a fast grower plant, it is often planted in home and economic gardens for cullinary purposes.
Taxonomy:
- Family :Poaceae (Gramineae)
Common Names:
- Malay : Serai, Serai Makan
- English : Lemon Grass, Lemongrass, Oil Grass
Habitat and Distribution:
Cymbopogon citratus is native to grasslands of tropical Asia, now found only in cultivation.
Uses:
- Food (Herb or Spice) : The crushed stalk produces a lemony flavor which is used in a variety of Southeast Asian dishes, such as curries, seafood, poultry dishes, and soups like Tom Yam Soup. Lemongrass is especially popular in Thailand, Vietnam, Laotia and Cambodia.
- Medicinal : Leaves can be boiled to make a refreshing tea to relieve stomach cramps, flatulence, colic and other digestive problems. Leaf paste is applied as a poultice on joints to treat rheumatism and on the forehead to relieve headaches and fever. Roots are consumed to induce sweating and improve urine flow. Leaves can be placed in bathwater to treat cuts and wounds, reduce swelling, improve blood circulation and remove body odour.
- Others : Essential oils extracted from the leaf stalk is used in perfumes, cosmetics, skin care and aromatherapy products.