Lemongrass Essential Oil
doTERRA Lemongrass oil is derived from the plant Cymbopogon flexuosus, which is a species of lemongrass native to India and other parts of Southeast Asia. Lemongrass has a long history of use in traditional medicine, culinary applications, and perfumery.
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Plant Description
Cymbopogon flexuosus, commonly known as East Indian Lemongrass or Cochin Grass, is a tall, perennial grass that belongs to the Poaceae family. Here are some key characteristics of the plant:
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Appearance: Lemongrass typically grows in tall, slender stalks with a height that can range from 2 to 4 feet (60 to 120 centimeters). The leaves are long and narrow, resembling grass blades, and they have a vibrant green color.
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Aroma: The plant gets its name from its distinct lemony fragrance, which is released when the leaves are crushed or bruised. This pleasant citrus scent is what makes lemongrass popular in perfumery and aromatherapy.
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Cultivation: Lemongrass thrives in tropical and subtropical climates. It requires well-drained soil and plenty of sunlight to grow successfully. It is often propagated through division of clumps or by planting cuttings.
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Uses: Lemongrass has a wide range of uses. In traditional medicine, it has been used to treat various ailments, including digestive health, body temperature, and inflammatory responses. Culinary traditions in many Asian cuisines incorporate lemongrass to add a citrusy flavor to dishes. Additionally, the essential oil extracted from lemongrass is used in aromatherapy for its refreshing and uplifting aroma, as well as for its potential therapeutic properties.
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Historical Significance
Lemongrass has a rich history in traditional medicine and cultural practices, particularly in regions where it is native. Here are some historical highlights:
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Traditional Medicine: In Ayurvedic medicine and traditional Thai medicine, lemongrass has been used to treat digestive issues, to help lower body temp, and as a mild sedative. It is believed to have various health benefits due to its aromatic and chemical properties.
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Culinary Use: Lemongrass is a key ingredient in many Asian dishes, including Thai, Vietnamese, and Indonesian cuisines. It imparts a citrusy, lemon-like flavor and aroma to soups, curries, and stir-fries.
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Aromatherapy: The essential oil extracted from lemongrass has gained popularity in modern aromatherapy and holistic wellness practices. It is used for its potential calming and mood-enhancing effects.
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Perfumery: Lemongrass is valued in the fragrance industry for its fresh and lemony scent. It is often used as a top note in perfumes and colognes to add a bright and citrusy aroma.
Take a Closer Look
EXTRACTION METHOD
Steam Distillation
AROMATIC DESCRIPTION
Citrus, Herbaceous, Smoky
BOTANICAL FAMILY
Gramineae (grasses)
PLANT PART
Leaf
DIRECTIONS FOR USE
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Diffusion: Use three to four drops in the diffuser of your choice.
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Internal: Dilute one drop in 4 fl. oz. of liquid.
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Topical Use: Apply one to two drops to desired area. Dilute with Fractionated Coconut Oil to minimize any skin sensitivity.
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RECOMMENDED USES
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To help sore joints or muscle sprains, combine equal parts Fractionated Coconut Oil and Lemongrass oil and rub topically on area of concern.
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Use to flavor entrees and meat dishes while promoting healthy digestion.
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Combine with Melaleuca and apply to toenails for clean, healthy nails.
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Rub or spritz on skin before going outside. Lemongrass essential oil naturally repels insects and is one of the essential oils in our Repellant Blend essential oil blend.
PHYSICAL HEALTH BENEFITS
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Healthy inflammatory response: Lemongrass oil contains compounds that may help support a healthy inflammatory response.
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Cleaning: Lemongrass oil has natural cleansing properties, which can be useful for non toxic household cleaners.
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Antioxidant: The antioxidants in Lemongrass oil may help combat free radicals and oxidative stress, supporting overall health and well-being.
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Body Temp: In traditional medicine, Lemongrass has been used to help reduce the body temperature and alleviate symptoms associated with overheating.
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Digestive Support: Lemongrass oil may aid in digestion by promoting healthy gut function and reducing digestive discomfort.
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Discomfort: Topical application of Lemongrass oil may provide relief from muscle aches, head tension...
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Irritation and scrapes: Lemongrass oil's properties can be beneficial for cleansing minor scrapes and irritated skin.
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Skin Health: It can help improve the appearance of skin by reducing blemishes and promoting a clear complexion.
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Hair Care: Lemongrass oil may support a healthy scalp and hair. It is used in some shampoos and hair products to promote hair strength and reduce dandruff.
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Respiratory Health: The inhalation of Lemongrass oil vapors may provide relief from respiratory issues, including stuffiness and irritated throat.
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CAUTIONS
Possible skin sensitivities. Keep out of reach of children. if you are pregnant, nursing, or under a doctor's care, consult your physician. Avoid contact with eyes, inner ears, and other sensitive areas.
10 ways to use lemongrass oil
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Natural Deodorant: Mix a few drops of Lemongrass oil with a carrier oil like coconut oil and apply it to your underarms as a natural and fragrant deodorant.
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Insect Repellent: Lemongrass oil is known for its ability to repel insects. Create a DIY insect repellent spray by diluting it with water or a carrier oil and apply it to your skin before outdoor activities.
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Foot Soak: Add a few drops of Lemongrass oil to a basin of warm water for a refreshing and invigorating foot soak. It can help soothe tired feet and eliminate foot odor.
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Room Freshener: Create a homemade room spray by mixing Lemongrass oil with water and use it to freshen the air in your home, car, or office.
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Natural Perfume: Dab a drop or two of Lemongrass oil on your pulse points (wrists, neck) as a natural and uplifting perfume.
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Cooking Flavor: Lemongrass oil can be used sparingly in cooking to add a citrusy flavor to dishes, especially in recipes that call for lemongrass but lack fresh lemongrass stalks.
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Laundry Freshener: Add a few drops of Lemongrass oil to your laundry detergent or a wool dryer ball to infuse your clothes with a pleasant, fresh scent.
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Homemade Cleaning Products: Incorporate Lemongrass oil into your DIY cleaning solutions to take advantage of its cleansing properties and refreshing scent.
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Massage Oil: Blend Lemongrass oil with a carrier oil like sweet almond or jojoba oil for a stimulating and revitalizing massage oil.
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Yoga or Meditation Enhancer: Diffuse Lemongrass oil during yoga or meditation sessions to create a serene and focused atmosphere that enhances your practice.
diy recipes with lemongrass oil
Invigorating Shower Scrub
Get Your Skin Glowing with this Homemade Epsom Salt Scrub Infused with Essential Oils
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Ingredients:
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1 cup of Epsom salt
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1/4 cup of coconut oil (melted)
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10 drops of Lemongrass essential oil
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5 drops of Peppermint essential oil
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5 drops vanilla essential oil
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Instructions:
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In a bowl, mix Epsom salt with melted coconut oil.
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Add essential oils and stir well.
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Store in an airtight container. Use this refreshing scrub in the shower to exfoliate and awaken your senses.
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Natural Insect-Repellent Candle
Enjoy Bug-Free Evenings with Homemade Candles Infused with Essential Oils
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Ingredients:
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Soy wax flakes
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Wicks and wick holders
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15-20 drops of Lemongrass essential oil
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5-10 drops of Lavender essential oil
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Instructions:
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Melt the soy wax flakes according to package instructions.
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Add Lemongrass and Lavender essential oils to the melted wax and stir.
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Pour the mixture into candle molds, adding wicks with wick holders.
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Allow the candles to cool and solidify. Burn them outdoors to repel insects naturally.
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Refreshing Hair Detangler Spray
Nourish and Untangle Your Hair the Natural Way with this Homemade Detangler Spray
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Ingredients:
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1 cup of distilled water
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2 tablespoons of vegetable glycerin
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10 drops of Lemongrass essential oil
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5 drops of Lavender essential oil
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Instructions:
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Mix distilled water and vegetable glycerin in a spray bottle.
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Add Lemongrass and Lavender essential oils and shake well.
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Spray this detangler on your hair to keep it soft, manageable, and smelling fresh.
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Natural All-Purpose Cleaner
Protect Your Family from Harmful Chemicals with an All-Natural Cleaning Recipe
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Ingredients:
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1 cup of white vinegar
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1 cup of water
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20 drops of Lemongrass essential oil
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10 drops of Tea Tree essential oil
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Instructions:
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Combine white vinegar and water in a spray bottle.
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Add Lemongrass and Tea Tree essential oils and shake vigorously.
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Use this natural cleaner to disinfect and clean various surfaces in your home.
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Lemongrass and Citrus Body Lotion
Rejuvenate Your Skin with a DIY Lemongrass and Citrus Body Lotion
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Ingredients:
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1/2 cup of unscented lotion or body cream
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10 drops of Lemongrass essential oil
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5 drops of Orange essential oil
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5 drops of Grapefruit essential oil
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Instructions:
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Mix Lemongrass, Orange, and Grapefruit essential oils into the unscented lotion or body cream.
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Blend thoroughly and store in an airtight container. Apply after a shower for a revitalizing and citrusy scent.
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essential emotions & spirituality
Lemongrass - The Oil of Cleansing
Emotional Benefits
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Stress Reduction: Lemongrass essential oil is known for its calming and soothing aroma, which can help reduce stress and anxious feelings, promoting a sense of relaxation.
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Mood Enhancement: In aromatherapy, Lemongrass oil is often used to uplift the mood and boost positivity, making it useful for combating feelings of sadness or low energy.
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Confidence Boost: The invigorating scent of Lemongrass can help increase self-esteem and confidence, providing emotional support during challenging situations.
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Mental Clarity: Lemongrass oil's refreshing aroma may aid in mental clarity and focus, helping to alleviate mental fatigue and brain fog.
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Emotional Balance: Regular use of Lemongrass oil in aromatherapy can help balance emotions, promoting emotional well-being and stability.
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Spiritual Benefits
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Purification: Lemongrass essential oil is often used in spiritual and energy practices to cleanse and purify spaces, making it a common choice for rituals and ceremonies.
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Spiritual Awakening: The aroma of Lemongrass is believed to help in awakening the spirit and enhancing one's connection to higher consciousness or spiritual realms.
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Protection: In various spiritual traditions, Lemongrass is considered a protective herb that can shield against negative energies and unwanted influences.
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Grounding: Despite its uplifting qualities, Lemongrass oil can also provide a grounding effect, helping individuals stay connected to the earth and rooted in the present moment.
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Enhanced Meditation: Diffusing Lemongrass oil during meditation sessions can create a serene and peaceful atmosphere, facilitating deeper spiritual experiences and insights.
Negative Emotions: Toxic or negative energy, despair, holding on to the past, hoarding, darkness, spiritual blindness
Positive Emotions: Clarity, cleansing, simplicity, discerning, letting go of past baggage
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Don't have this oil?
substitutes may include:
Cypress, Tea Tree, Rosemary, Siberian Fir
lemongrass oil affirmations
Using essential oils like Lemongrass in combination with affirmations can enhance the emotional and spiritual benefits of both practices. Essential oils can help create a sensory experience that amplifies the power of your affirmations, making them more impactful. Here are five affirmations you can use with Lemongrass oil:
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Affirmation: "I am filled with energy and vitality."
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Use Lemongrass oil in a diffuser or as a personal fragrance while repeating this affirmation. The invigorating scent of Lemongrass can help boost your energy and motivation.
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Affirmation: "I release all negativity, embracing positivity and renewal."
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Diffuse Lemongrass oil as you meditate on this affirmation. The oil's cleansing properties can support your intention to let go of negativity and invite positivity into your life.
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Affirmation: "I am confident and fearless in pursuing my goals."
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Apply a diluted mixture of Lemongrass oil to your wrists and heart area while repeating this affirmation. Lemongrass can help boost self-esteem and courage.
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Affirmation: "I am open to new experiences and opportunities."
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Use Lemongrass oil in a room spray or diffuser during moments of reflection on this affirmation. Lemongrass can help create an open and receptive atmosphere.
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Affirmation: "I am at peace with my past, present, and future."
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Incorporate Lemongrass oil into a soothing bath or massage oil while repeating this affirmation. The oil's calming properties can enhance your sense of peace and well-being.
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The synergy between essential oils and affirmations lies in the holistic approach to well-being. Essential oils engage the sense of smell, which is closely connected to the limbic system in the brain, responsible for emotions and memories. When combined with affirmations, which are positive statements aimed at creating a mindset shift, essential oils can help anchor these affirmations in your consciousness more deeply. This combination creates a sensory experience that reinforces your intention and can lead to a more profound and lasting impact on your emotional and spiritual well-being.
Experiment with different oils and affirmations to find the combinations that resonate best with you and support your personal growth journey.