You have surely heard of the numerous uses and benefits of lemongrass before. I bet you have even tried it as a weapon against mosquitoes! Plus, pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries often use this plant, especially its juice.
This versatile herb has a strong aroma that we all adore, and it is commonly used in Thai and Vietnamese cuisine, to improve the taste of various dishes.
Its edible part resembles lemons in flavor, but it has a slightly pungent taste.
Lemongrass has potent anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal, and sedative effects, and it contains essential oils like citronellal, terpinolene, and myrcene.
If you decide to plant lemongrass at home as a potted plant, its bushy and bluish strands will add color to your balcony, patio, or garden. It requires nothing more than some sun, rich soil, and plenty of water.
Just sow the seeds in the soil, and allow them to germinate from January to March. The ideal temperature is around 68 degrees Fahrenheit. The soil should be moist, and in about 20-40 days, they will sprout. Replant them in cups, and when they reach a larger size, plant them in suitable containers.
Lemongrass does not tolerate ice and low temperatures. During the winter, store it in a cool place inside if you live in the north, and water it occasionally. Trim the low-growing stems in the fall.
In a few years, the thicker shoots will appear, which can be used for drying. If you grow it at home, you can reap all the benefits of this herb!
You can use the plant to repel mosquitoes, its leaves for tea, the yellow shoots for cooking, and the essential oils to lower anxiety and stress, relieve headaches, and alleviate muscle and joint pain.
Lemongrass tea is a healing brew that fights colds and the flu, relieves indigestion, burns fat and accelerates metabolism, soothes menstrual pain, and naturally improves the health of the skin and hair.
Moreover, lemongrass is rich in antioxidants, detoxifies the body, and is a potent diuretic. Studies have shown that it can help in the case of infections, and it lowers high blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
So, to boost your health in many ways, start the day with a cup of the tea or sprinkle lemongrass on fish, chicken dishes, and seafood meals.
Excellent!
Sources:
gardeningsoul.com
smartlivingenvironment.com
food.ndtv.com
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