What is the difference between lemon and the lemongrass plant?
Apart from a certain similarity in taste, they are two completely distinct things. First, the lemon is a citrus fruit (from the lemon tree), whereas lemongrass belongs to another plant family, the grasses, cultivated for their stalks and leaves. Lemongrass is therefore a plant, while lemon is a fruit. To make things a little more complex, there are several varieties of lemongrass. The most common, and the one discussed here, is called "C. citratus", "lemongrass" or "fever grass". But it has other neighbouring plants with fairly similar flavours: lemon thyme, lemon balm, lemon verbena...
What are the health benefits of lemon?
Rich in vitamin C, lemon is renowned for its detoxifying properties: it is said to support digestion and toxin elimination. When paired with tea, lemon juice (or lime juice) helps preserve many of the tea's antioxidants... which might otherwise be destroyed by the digestive system before entering the bloodstream.
What are the health benefits of lemongrass?
This medicinal plant is best known as an insecticide. Lemongrass essential oil is often used as a mosquito repellent. But lemongrass has other virtues, especially when consumed directly. It is believed to aid digestion by acting as a diuretic—stimulating kidney function—while offering anti-inflammatory properties that help combat the flu, feverish states, rheumatism and joint discomfort.
What are the benefits of lemon and lemongrass in a herbal tea or infusion?
Beyond the specific qualities of lemongrass and lemon, herbal teas are wellness allies that help boost your water intake for optimal hydration. Proper hydration is essential for flushing out toxins. While the digestive system handles the elimination process (also known as "drainage"), herbal infusions offer an extra way to support the body.
How to make homemade lemongrass herbal tea or infusion?
You will need to infuse fresh leaves or lemongrass stalks. You can also use dried leaves, which keep for much longer. Fresh lemongrass can be found in grocery stores, particularly Asian supermarkets or general supermarkets. Make sure to opt for organically grown leaves or stalks, as they are pesticide-free. A quick and easy guide: count 5 lemongrass stalks for one litre of water. Be sure to wash the stalks and peel them by removing the outer layer. Cut the stalks in half lengthwise, flattening them slightly with a knife. Bring the water to the boil, then place the lemongrass (and any other herbs if desired) into the saucepan, leaving it to steep for 10-15 minutes off the heat. The herbal tea can then be enjoyed hot, or left to cool (the infusion continues at room temperature) before straining and chilling.
How to flavour homemade lemongrass herbal tea?
The flavour of lemongrass can be enhanced – and rebalanced if needed – with other botanicals that will also provide extra benefits. We particularly recommend trying lemongrass-ginger, lemongrass-cinnamon, lemongrass-hibiscus, lemongrass-rosemary, lemongrass-basil, lemongrass-mint or lemongrass-linden pairs. What's more, according to taste, you can also sweeten your lemongrass infusion with brown sugar, honey, maple syrup or agave syrup. Finally, lemongrass leaves, widely used in Southeast Asian cuisine, can also be used to flavour salads, broths, marinades, or desserts such as flans and custards.
Where can you find lemongrass in organic Kusmi Tea blends?
At Kusmi, we offer a wide range of teas and herbal infusions, because you don't always have time to make them from scratch. Among them is our Detox blend, available loose or in tea bags. As the first-born of our Detox family, it enhances its green tea and maté base with a twist of lemon and lemongrass. The benefits of this Kusmi recipe (and all the others)? Organically grown aromatic plants, made in France, and eco-friendly packaging that is either recyclable or biodegradable. What more could you ask for? Lemongrass is also featured in our blue, white and red tea, Petit Déjeuner à l’Elysée.
Why choose an organic lemongrass herbal tea?
At Kusmi, we highly recommend choosing an organic infusion. The organic label guarantees premium quality leaves grown without pesticides and with respect for the environment. By opting for organic herbal tea, you will enjoy all the benefits to the fullest.
Did you know: using lemongrass essential oil
Lemongrass is widely used in the form of essential oil. It is believed to be very effective at repelling mosquitoes during summer days and nights. It also helps to soothe insect bites. When used in cosmetics, it has deodorising and purifying effects.
As you will have gathered, lemongrass is a remarkable plant thanks to its health-promoting properties. Its uses are varied: oil, herbal tea or infusion, deodorant, water-based remedies or soothing aches. For top quality, choose organic leaves!