Lemongrass is used quite extensively as a flavor ingredient throughout Southeast Asia. The essential oil is extracted from the leaves of a tropical grass by steam distillation with a yield of around 0.2%-0.4% for West Indian lemongrass and a yield of around 0.5% for East Indian lemongrass. Citral is a major component for both types of lemongrass although East Indian lemongrass essential oil usually contains a slightly higher content of citral than West Indian lemongrass. The grass that is left over after the distillation process is fed to the local cattle. Traditionally, West Indian lemongrass is used in Chinese medicine to treat colds, headache, stomach ache, abdominal pain and rheumatic pain.
Did you know....
When neral and geranial are both present in an oil they are jointly known as Citral? Citral has excellent anti-fungal properties and is known for its stimulating and insect repellent qualities. Geranial has a strong lemon odor, while Neral's lemon odor is less intense, but sweeter. Citral is used in perfumery as an aroma compound for its citrus effect. Citral is also used as a flavor and for fortifying lemon oil. Citral is also used to mask the smell of smoke.
Lemongrass essential oil, both East Indian and West Indian, are used as the starting materials for the synthesis of ionones and Vitamin A as well as the production (isolation) of natural citral.
Lemongrass essential oil is considered by many to be stimulating yet relaxing. It has been used from a variety of conditions including nervous exhaustion, stress, headaches, fatigue and irritability.
In her book, Aromatherapy Science, Maria Lis-Balchin, refers to a number of research studies done by herself and colleagues that showed lemongrass oil to be strongly antispasmodic to smooth muscle of the intestine in vitro and also to uterine muscles.
Cautions: Generally considered non-toxic, however lemongrass is a possible dermal irritant so it should be used with care when applying topically to to skin. Avoid in pregnancy.
Are you ready to learn more about the use of essential oils? As always the self-directed home study Aromatherapy Courses are available. When you are ready they are only a click away, a click that will lead you into a world filled with information, self-growth and delight! Perhaps they will be a gift you give yourself this year!
E-Books and DVD
- Infant Massage,
- Subtle Aromatherapy,
- Aromatic Lords and Ladies of the Zodiac, an exercise in energetic blending
- Aromatic Gifts for All Ages and All Seasons
- The Hawkins Protocol is now available as an E-book.
- Aroma Massage DVD.
These are offered once a month, generally the third weekend of the month so follow the link and browse through the offerings for 2010.
May 15 Reiki Level 1 - $170.00 plus GST includes
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Prerequisites: None
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