LEMONGRASS

Latin name: Cymbopogon flexuosus
Country of origin: India
Part of the plant: Leaves (fresh/partially dried)
Obtained by: Steam distilled
Main biochemical components*: Geranial, neral, geraniol
Properties: Analgesic, antidepressant, antimicrobial, deodorant, sedative, anti-inflammatory.

Why Use

Physical uses: Muscle aches, muscle fatigue, stiff joints, jet lag, poor circulation, indigestion, infections, lymphatic support, immune support.

Skin care uses: Congested skin, oily skin, blemishes, minor skin infections, nail fungus, athlete’s foot, body odor, bruises, skin tonic.

Psychological uses: Stress, anxiety, nervous exhaustion, mental fatigue, mental fog, mild depression.

Subtle uses: Clears energy blocks. Dispels negativity.

Notes: Use Lemongrass in a 1-5% dilution. May be sensitizing. Avoid during pregnancy and nursing.

How You Can Use

After Shower: After showering, while your skin is still wet, put 1-3 drops of essential oil in the palm of one of your hands and rub your hands together. Quickly and evenly spread the essential oil over your legs, arms, and torso. Avoid sensitive skin areas. For maximum skin hydration and to seal in moisture, apply cream, lotion, or body oil directly to damp skin.

Bath, Foot: Mix 1-3 drops of essential oil in 1/2 teaspoon of carrier oil, such as fractionated coconut oil. Set aside. Fill a tub (deep enough to cover your feet and ankles) with warm water. Add the essential oil mixture, stir well, and immerse your feet for 10-15 minutes. Breathe in the aroma and massage your feet.

Compress: Fill a basin with water. (Warm water relaxes and increases circulation. Cool water invigorates and relieves inflammation.) Add 3-5 drops of essential oil and briskly stir. Lay in a washcloth, wring and apply to the area in need for approximately 1-5 minutes. Dip, wring and apply 3 more times.

Compress, Facial: Fill the sink with warm water. Add 1-3 drops of essential oil to the water and agitate the water to mix well. Lay in a clean washcloth, wring, and apply to face, with eyes closed, holding in place for 5-10 seconds. Repeat dipping, wringing, and applying – 3 times. Pat dry.

Diffusion: Follow the diffuser manufacturer’s instructions to fill the air with a therapeutic aroma.
Easy alternatives when you don’t have a diffuser:
Place 2-4 drops of essential oil on several cotton balls or tissues; place nearby or tuck into the grate of fan or air vent in your home or car.

Inhalation: Put 1-3 drops of essential oil on a tissue and inhale the aroma through your nose. Pause and inhale again.
(Avoid touching your nose with the tissue.)

Massage: Mix 6-30 drops of essential oil in 1 ounce of carrier oil or fragrance-free, natural lotion.

Room Mist: Mix 30-60 drops of essential oil in 4 ounces of water in a mister bottle. Shake well before each use and avoid getting the mist into the eyes.

Spot Application: Mix 1-4 drops of essential oil in 1 teaspoon of carrier oil or aloe vera and apply to the area in need.