THE APOTHECARY'S GARDEN

COLUMNIST: Malisse Walker

This week I am writing about a herb that is underrated and often overlooked when it comes to our health and wellbeinglemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus). This herb is more commonly found in tropical climates, but it can be grown in colder areas as long as it is given some protection from the cold When grown in the tropics, Lemongrass is a perennial herb that will grow all year If in a colder climate, it will only grow as a perennial if you bring it indoors during winter, otherwise it will die back

As a nervine, one of the key benefits of Lemongrass lies in its ability to support our nervous systems in dealing with stress and anxiety It can assist in the lowering of stress hormones produced by our bodies and can also soothe the mind and body by encouraging the production of serotonin As serotonin is the precursor to melatonin, the sleep hormone, Lemongrass may help people suffering from insomnia, especially if the sleeplessness is caused by stress or anxiety.

Lemongrass is also classified as a febrifuge, meaning that it can assist in the reduction of fevers It does so by inducing perspiration, which evaporates on the skin, breaking the fever and allowing our temperature to reduce and stabilize Its antiinflammatory properties may also act to reduce heat.

Lemongrass essential oil is a strong natural antiseptic, its antibacterial and anti-fungal, and anti-inflammatory properties are useful in protecting against fungal infections and assisting with minor skin infections. These properties also make Lemongrass a great ingredient to include in cleansers and toners, as it may help sterilize the skin and act as an astringent, toning up our pores and strengthening the skin

For those who work outdoors or who enjoy spending time exploring Azeroth, Lemongrass is also an excellent insect repellent due to its high content of citronella It does so by masking the scent that attracts mosquitoes and other pests to us

If all that is not enough to convince you of Lemongrass’ usefulness in your pantry, then consider that this herb is not only delicious to eat, but it can also help maintain good metabolic and digestive health It may help deal with fluid retention, while also increasing energy levels and acting as a metabolism booster It helps our digestive systems by enhancing our ability to absorb nutrients while preventing the overgrowth of yeast and bad bacteria in the gut

As always, please patch test the following products before to check for sensitivities Stop use if irritation or redness occurs. See your healer if your symptoms persist or worsen If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult your healer prior to using

Lemongrass Tea

Served hot during winter or over ice during the warmer months, this tea can be enjoyed all year long Enjoy a cold in the morning to give you an energy boost to get through the day, or drink warm to help ease an upset stomach

Ingredients

2 cups water

¼ chopped fresh lemongrass stalk

8 mint leaves

1 heaped tablespoon of green tea leaves

1 inch of fresh ginger, peeled and grated or finely sliced Juice of 1 lime

Honey or sugar to taste

Method

1. In a saucepan, combine the water, lemongrass, honey or sugar, lime juice, and ginger and bring to the boil while stirring occasionally

2 Reduce heat and simmer for five minutes

3. Remove from the heat, add mint and green tea leaves. Cover the saucepan and let the tea steep for another five minutes