Awesome Uses for Lemongrass Essential Oil

The lemongrass genus has over fifty different species worldwide, but only some of the species are suitable for utilization as essential oil.  The two most commonly used in essential oils are are Cymbopogan citratus and Cymbopogan flexuosus.

Historically, lemongrass has been used to treat fevers, inflammation and indigestion as well as a sedative. These days, it is used for an armload of other ailments as well as for purification and odor control.  23 uses for lemongrass essential oil that will set you a a path of wellness.

How is Lemongrass Essential Oil Used?

Lemongrass is effective in resolving a number of first aid woes. It has anti-microbial properties and is also an anti-inflammatory.  As a powerful analgesic, it offers immediate topical pain relief and reduces inflammation.  In addition, it is  antibacterial and antimicrobial which means it can prohibit bacterial growth and it is effective in controlling a fever caused by infection.

With its strong lemony scent and earthy, grassy undertones, it is also effective in aromatherapy and especially when used in a diffuser. 

Used topically, a carrier oil is usually recommended as lemongrass is one essential oil that can cause sensitivity or irritation if utilized undiluted on the skin, or “neat”.  A common dilution is 2 drops of lemongrass to 1 teaspoon of a carrier oil but this is considered just a guide line and is quite conservative.  Still, this 2% dilution is a good starting point especially when using lemongrass for the first time.

23 Uses for Lemongrass Essential Oil in the First Aid Kit

1. Muscle and tendon relaxer:  When muscles and tendons tighten up, an application of lemongrass essential oil will typically bring immediate relief.  It works extremely quickly on those “knots” and spasms that can come on very quickly in the middle of the night.

2. Headache relief:  When it comes to headaches, and especially allergy-related headaches, lemongrass is a super star. It is also useful for individuals who are sensitive to Peppermint essential oil which is usually the recommended EO for headaches.

3. Arthritis joint pain:  Lemongrass works well to resolve joint pain and works especially well when mixed with Birch EO and Geranium EOs.  Since the use of birch essential oil is not recommended for people on blood thinners, lemongrass is an effective alternative.  That said, layering “the Birch” over lemongrass works surprisingly well to relieve deep joint pain.

4.  Pulled muscles:  By treating the inflammation created by a pulled muscle, lemongrass essential oil can bring immediate relief.  This will also work on tender bruised areas.

5. Shock:  If you feel that someone is in shock, add 1 or 2 drops to a cotton ball and place the infused cotton ball under the nostrils.  Do this as soon as possible then, if you can, summon medical help.

6.  Treat wounds:  Blend a few drops with Witch Hazel or Saline to flush wounds. Apply a bandage or gauze to the wound to keep it clean and free from dirt.

7. Heartburn:  Spread a couple of drops mixed with a carrier such as coconut oil over the throat and chest area to relieve heartburn.

8.  Indigestion:  A drop or two massaged into the abdomen will assist digestion and relieve the symptoms of indigestion..

9.  Sprains and sports injuries:  Lemongrass essential oil will treat both the pain and inflammations associated with sprains and sports injuries.

10.  Reduce fevers:  Use lemongrass to help fight the infection that causes fevers and also to keep the toxins from spreading. To use, blend with your basic Simple Salve (or even plain coconut oil) and apply to the back of neck, chest area, and the bottom of feet.

11.  Flea repellant: Lemongrass will repel fleas.  For dogs, apply to a piece of cloth (such as a bandana) or collar.  Since cats are more sensitive to essential oils in general, check with your veterinarian before using any essential oil on your kitty.

12.  Insect repellent: Insects don’t like lemongrass!  Apply to the edges of your clothing edges to repel climbing insects like ticks, or to exposed skin to repel mosquitos and other flying biting bugs. Just remember to dilute with a bit of carrier oil or salve when applying directly to the skin.

13.  Acne: Lemongrass is a mild astringent and is also antimicrobial. To help clear up acne, add one drop  to a carrier oil and dab on to affected areas once or twice a day.

14.  Athlete’s Foot:  Athlete’s foot is fungal skin infection and lemongrass can help address it. Utilize a drop of lemongrass in a carrier oil of salve, and rub on the feet a few times a day. If you wear shoes most of the day, try rubbing it on first thing in the morning, as soon as your shoes come off, and again before bed.

15.  Oily skin:  Utilize lemongrass in the same manner as that for acne, or utilize a drop in warm water as a skin rinse. The astringent properties of lemongrass have a naturally drying effect, without the potential over dryness caused by stronger astringents.

16. Stress relief:  One of the best ways to use lemongrass essential oil to relieve stress is via aromatherapy. Add 5 to 6 drops to your diffuser, or put a drop on your palms and inhale the scent. You can also put a drop on a cloth, or pillow for nighttime or travel aromatherapy.

17.  Fatigue:  Like stress relief, you can use lemongrass essential oil aromatically to mitigate fatigue.  A diffuser or even a few drops on a cotton ball will work beautifully.  Topically, mix a drop or two with a carrier oil and either massage into your temples.

18.  Anti-depressant:  Use a few drops in a diffuser daily.  It works great at night while sleeping.

19.  Anti-bacterial cleaning products:  Use lemongrass in homemade cleaning products to reduce bacteria in your home.  You can also use it in a diffuser to reduce airborne bacteria. As an added bonus, lemongrass has a wonderful, and uplifting aroma.  You home will smell fresh and inviting!

20. Reduce high blood pressure:  Lemongrass is a vasodilator and can help reduce high blood pressure by relaxing the blood vessels.

21.  Water retention: The diuretic properties of lemongrass can help clean and flush toxic wastes out of the body.  This can be done via topical applications such as in a salve or by adding a drop to your glass of water or cup of tea.

22.  Insomnia:  Applying lemongrass to the bottoms of your feet at night is calming and helps induce a deep sleep.  Sipping a cup of lemongrass tea also helps.

23.  Body odor:  Commercial deodorants often contain lemongrass.  If you are prone to body odor, adding a few drops of lemongrass essential oil to your moisturizing body lotion or salve will help combat unpleasant body odors.