by The Puritan's Pride Editorial Team
The next step in our exploration of essential oils brings us to Lemongrass – an exotic scent that’s a favorite among oilers at all stages of the aromatherapy journey.
Lemongrass is a genus of over 50 non-flowering, tropical plants native to Asia, Africa and Australia, though it’s currently cultivated in large amounts in India as well. Also referred to as Barbed Wire Grass or Silky Heads, its blades can grow to an impressive height of 6-7 feet.
lemongrass was known for its use on ancient palm-leaf manuscripts as a reliable ink preservative, and today it’s commonly used by beekeepers to attract and retain honey bees. An edible grass with a subtle citrus flavor, it can be dried and powdered for use in teas, soups, and curries. It is especially popular in Thai cuisine.
Most people recognize Lemongrass for its citrusy, hay-like aroma. The scent, however, can be more difficult than others to classify. While discussing it recently, various members of the Puritan’s Pride team could not reach a consensus on the strength of the aroma. Some noses found it zesty and powerful, while others found it light and sweet. It is, interestingly, one of a handful of scents that most men find appealing.
Lemongrass blends well with just about every citrus oil that one can imagine, especially Bergamot, Lemon, Lime, Grapefruit, and Orange. It can also be used to add a ‘bite’ to softer floral oils like Chamomile, Rose, and Ylang Ylang. Feeling brave? Try mixing a drop or two with an equally bold scent, like Juniper or Frankincense.
Lemongrass Oil is traditionally used for cleansing and purifying, as well as tranquility and serenity, but your experience will depend largely on how you use it and combine it with the other oils in your collection. Here are a few ideas to get you started.
Obtain a bowl’s worth of freshly cut wood, cut into small blocks with any bark removed. The softer and fresher the wood, the better.
Fill a small spray bottle almost all the way to the top with distilled water, add about 15 drops of Lemongrass, seal, and shake well to mix.
Spread the blocks out evenly on a dry paper towel or newspaper (anything absorbent and disposable). Spray the water/oil mixture evenly and generously across all wood surfaces.
Consider wearing plastic gloves for this next step, as the oil mixture may irritate the skin if brought into direct contact. Place the blocks in a sealable plastic container, shake well to spread the excess water evenly and ensure that all sides are covered. Give the oil a few hours to absorb in the sealed container before using.
In a double boiler, add the shea butter and coconut oil until the mixture is reduced to a liquid. Stir in the Vitamin E Oil and add the essential oils. Remove from the heat and place the mixture in the fridge until it begins to solidify into a butter-like consistency. Remove from the fridge and mix until fluffy. Place the mixture in an airtight glass jar and store in the fridge until ready for use.
In a medium mixing bowl combine 2 cups of baking soda, 3 tablespoons of liquid castile soap, and 20 drops of Lemongrass oil. Mix well and sprinkle evenly in the tub, allowing it to sit for a few minutes before scrubbing. Rinse well when complete.
Combine the following ingredients in a small bowl and mix well:
Apply the mixture to specific areas of the skin where needed.
In a glass bowl, melt ¾ cup of coconut oil to reduce to liquid (if necessary), using 15-second intervals in the microwave. When melted, slowly mix in 1 cup of coconut sugar until a grainy, slightly wet consistency is achieved. Add 5 drops of lemongrass oil and mix until blended. Move the mixture to an airtight glass jar. Scoop a quarter-sized amount of sugar scrub out of the jar and massage over each foot, using more if needed. For extra hydration, dust off the sugar lightly, leaving the coconut oil residue behind.
Blend oils together and add to your electric diffuser.
Combine a few drops of lemongrass oil with a teaspoon of jojoba oil. Massage onto nails, leave on for ten minutes, and rinse with warm water.
Combine 1 quart of water, 1 cup of castile soap, 1 cup of apple cider vinegar, 2 tablespoons of aloe vera gel, and 10 drops of lemongrass oil in a small bowl. Mix, and massage into the dog’s fur during bathing. Rinse with warm water until shampoo is removed.
Fill spray bottle with distilled water (⅔ full). Add witch hazel to the top. Add 20 drops of lemongrass oil and 10 drops of basil oil.
What are some different ways you use lemongrass oil?
Warning – essential oils are not for internal use. Never apply undiluted oil directly to skin.
