DIGITAL GARDEN

DEPARTMENT OF BOTANY
MEDICINAL PLANTS

Cymbopogan citratus (DC.) Stapf.

Common Name: Lemon grass
Family: Poaceae
Genus: Cymbopogan
Species: citratus
Malayalam Name: Vasanapullu, Inchipullu
Tamil Name: Thesippul
Description: Lemon grass is a tall, perennial grass with long, slender, narrow leaves that grow in dense clumps. The leaves droop towards the tips and release a strong lemon aroma when touched.
Lemon grass can grow up to 6 ft (1.8 m) tall and 5–10 mm wide.
Flowers: Lemon grass produces large compound flowers on spikes
Uses
Cough and nasal congestion: Lemongrass can relieve coughs and nasal congestion.
Insect repellent: Citronella oil, which is made from lemongrass, can repel insects, especially mosquitoes.
Aromatherapy: Lemongrass oil is used in aromatherapy.
Anti-inflammatory: Lemongrass leaves have anti-inflammatory properties.
It has antibacterial, antifungal, antioxidant, analgesic, antipyretic, antispasmodic and diuretic properties. Lemongrass leaves have sedative properties.