Lemongrass Essential Oil: Benefits, Uses & Complete Guide

Lemongrass essential oil brings the fresh, bright energy of Southeast Asian cuisine into aromatherapy. This tall, graceful grass—a staple in Thai and Vietnamese cooking—yields an essential oil that's equally at home clearing your mind, repelling insects, and soothing tired muscles. Its clean, citrus-herbaceous scent cuts through mental fog while keeping mosquitoes at bay.

Steam-distilled from the leaves of Cymbopogon species, lemongrass essential oil offers a more affordable alternative to expensive citrus oils while delivering powerful therapeutic benefits. Whether you're seeking natural bug protection, muscle relief, or an invigorating pick-me-up, lemongrass delivers with refreshing efficiency.

Understanding Lemongrass Varieties

Several species of Cymbopogon produce essential oils, with two being most common in aromatherapy. Understanding the differences helps you choose the right variety for your needs.

West Indian Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus)

The most common variety, widely used in both aromatherapy and cooking.

Characteristics:

Scent: Fresh, lemony, slightly earthy
Key compound: Citral (75-85%)
Origin: India, Guatemala, West Indies
Best for: General aromatherapy, culinary use, insect repellent

East Indian Lemongrass (Cymbopogon flexuosus)

Also called Cochin lemongrass, this variety has a slightly different profile.

Characteristics:

Scent: More intense, slightly more herbaceous
Key compound: Citral (70-80%)
Origin: India, Southeast Asia
Best for: Perfumery, higher-end aromatherapy

Related Oils

Citronella (Cymbopogon nardus/winterianus):

Different species, famous for insect repellent properties
Stronger, more pungent scent than lemongrass
Often confused with lemongrass but distinct

Palmarosa (Cymbopogon martinii):

Rose-like scent despite being a grass
High in geraniol rather than citral
Used in skincare and perfumery

Research-Backed Benefits

Antimicrobial Properties

Lemongrass demonstrates significant antimicrobial activity:

Antibacterial: Research shows effectiveness against various pathogenic bacteria, including E. coli and Staphylococcus aureus. A 2010 study found lemongrass oil effective against antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

Antifungal: Studies confirm activity against Candida and various dermatophytes (skin fungi), making it useful for fungal skin conditions.

Food preservation: The food industry uses lemongrass as a natural preservative due to these antimicrobial properties.

Insect Repellent

Lemongrass's reputation as an insect repellent has scientific support:

Mosquito repellency: Research confirms effectiveness against various mosquito species, though it requires more frequent reapplication than DEET.

A 2011 study found lemongrass oil provided up to 2.5 hours of mosquito protection at appropriate concentrations.

Tick repellency: Some studies suggest effectiveness against ticks as well.

Pain and Inflammation

Lemongrass offers musculoskeletal benefits:

Anti-inflammatory action: Research shows lemongrass compounds reduce inflammation markers, relevant for muscle pain and arthritis.

Analgesic properties: Traditional use for pain relief has some research support, particularly for headaches and muscle aches.

Massage therapy: Popular in Thai massage for its warming, pain-relieving effects.

Mental Clarity and Energy

The fresh scent supports cognitive function:

Alertness: The bright, citrus scent naturally promotes alertness without the jitteriness of caffeine.

Mental clarity: Aromatherapists use lemongrass to cut through mental fog and improve focus.

Stress reduction: Despite being energizing, lemongrass can reduce stress and anxiety when used in moderate amounts.

Digestive Support

Traditional use for digestive complaints has some backing:

Antispasmodic: May help relax smooth muscle in the digestive tract.

Traditional use: Long history in Asian medicine for stomach complaints, nausea, and digestive discomfort.

How to Use Lemongrass Essential Oil Safely

Diffusion

Lemongrass's fresh, clean scent energizes any space. Add 3-5 drops to your diffuser.

Morning energy blend:

3 drops lemongrass
2 drops peppermint
2 drops rosemary

Fresh air blend:

3 drops lemongrass
2 drops eucalyptus
2 drops lavender

Focus blend:

3 drops lemongrass
2 drops basil
1 drop grapefruit

Diffuse for 30-60 minutes. Lemongrass has a strong scent—start with fewer drops and adjust.

Topical Application

Lemongrass can cause skin sensitization in some individuals—always patch test and dilute properly.

Standard dilutions:

Body massage: 1-2% (6-12 drops per ounce carrier)
Insect repellent: 2-3% (12-18 drops per ounce carrier)
Muscle relief: 2% (12 drops per ounce carrier)

Best carrier oils:

Coconut (insect repellent blends)
Sweet almond (massage)
Jojoba (general use)
Grapeseed (lighter applications)

Insect Repellent Application

For natural bug protection:

Mix 20-30 drops lemongrass per 2 oz carrier oil or witch hazel
Add 10 drops citronella and 10 drops eucalyptus citriodora for enhanced effect
Apply to exposed skin every 2-3 hours
Reapply after swimming or sweating
Avoid eyes and mucous membranes

Muscle Relief Application

For sore muscles:

Mix 10-12 drops lemongrass with 1 oz carrier oil
Add 8 drops lavender and 5 drops peppermint
Massage into affected areas
Apply after exercise or as needed
The warming sensation indicates it's working

DIY Lemongrass Recipes

Natural Bug Spray

Effective outdoor protection:

4 oz witch hazel
1 oz fractionated coconut oil
25 drops lemongrass essential oil
15 drops citronella essential oil
10 drops eucalyptus citriodora essential oil
5 drops lavender essential oil

Combine in a glass spray bottle. Shake well before each use. Apply to exposed skin and clothing every 2-3 hours when outdoors.

Muscle Relief Massage Oil

For post-workout or general aches:

2 oz sweet almond oil
12 drops lemongrass essential oil
10 drops lavender essential oil
8 drops peppermint essential oil
5 drops eucalyptus essential oil

Combine in a bottle. Massage into sore muscles using firm strokes. The blend provides both warming and cooling sensations for muscle comfort.

Energizing Room Spray

For instant freshness:

4 oz distilled water
1 oz witch hazel
15 drops lemongrass essential oil
10 drops sweet orange essential oil
5 drops peppermint essential oil

Combine in a glass spray bottle. Shake before use. Mist any room for instant energy and freshness.

Natural Deodorizing Spray

For kitchen and home:

2 cups water
2 tablespoons vodka or rubbing alcohol
20 drops lemongrass essential oil
10 drops tea tree essential oil

Combine in a spray bottle. Use to freshen kitchen, bathroom, or any space. The antimicrobial properties help eliminate odor-causing bacteria.

Foot Soak for Tired Feet

After a long day:

1/2 cup Epsom salt
1/4 cup baking soda
1 tablespoon carrier oil
8 drops lemongrass essential oil
5 drops peppermint essential oil

Mix oils with salt, then add baking soda. Add to warm foot bath. Soak feet for 15-20 minutes. The antimicrobial properties also help with foot odor.

Clarifying Shampoo Boost

For oily hair:

Your regular shampoo (single use amount)
2 drops lemongrass essential oil

Add lemongrass to shampoo in palm, mix, and wash hair as usual. Helps remove buildup and excess oil. Use 2-3 times weekly maximum.

Buying Guide: Choosing Quality Lemongrass Oil

Quality Indicators

Botanical name: Should state "Cymbopogon citratus" or "Cymbopogon flexuosus"
Extraction method: Steam distillation
Color: Pale yellow to golden yellow
Scent: Fresh, lemony, herbaceous (not harsh or synthetic)
GC/MS testing: Should show high citral content (70-85%)

Price Expectations

Quality lemongrass essential oil typically costs $6-12 per 10ml. It's one of the more affordable essential oils due to high yields from the grass.

What to Avoid

Very cheap oils (may be synthetic or adulterated)
Harsh, chemical smell
Oil labeled simply "lemongrass" without species name
Confusion with citronella (different species)

Storage Tips

Store in dark glass away from heat and light
Shelf life is 2-3 years when stored properly
May develop a sharper scent as it ages
Refrigeration can extend shelf life

Lemongrass in Culture and Cuisine

Southeast Asian Cuisine

Lemongrass is essential to Thai, Vietnamese, and Indonesian cooking:

Tom Yum soup (Thailand)
Pho and lemongrass chicken (Vietnam)
Rendang and satay (Indonesia/Malaysia)
Curries throughout the region

The same plant that flavors these dishes gives us the essential oil, connecting aromatherapy to culinary traditions.

Traditional Medicine

Asian medicine has used lemongrass for centuries:

Ayurveda: For fever, digestive issues, and as a purifying herb
Traditional Chinese Medicine: For cold and flu symptoms
Southeast Asian folk medicine: For pain, fever, and infections

Modern Wellness

Today, lemongrass appears in:

Natural insect repellents
Spa and massage products
Natural cleaning products
Aromatherapy blends for focus and energy

Frequently Asked Questions

Is lemongrass effective as an insect repellent?

Yes, research confirms lemongrass repels mosquitoes and other insects, though it requires more frequent reapplication than synthetic repellents like DEET. For best results, combine with citronella and eucalyptus citriodora, and reapply every 2-3 hours.

Can lemongrass essential oil be used in cooking?

While lemongrass stalks are common in cooking, essential oils are extremely concentrated and not recommended for culinary use. A single drop contains the essence of many stalks. Use fresh or dried lemongrass for cooking instead.

Is lemongrass the same as citronella?

No, though they're related. Both are Cymbopogon species, but citronella (C. nardus or C. winterianus) and lemongrass (C. citratus) have different chemical profiles and scents. Citronella has a stronger, more pungent odor and is primarily known for insect repellent properties.

Why does lemongrass sometimes irritate my skin?

Lemongrass's high citral content can cause skin sensitization in some individuals. Always dilute properly, patch test before widespread use, and consider starting with lower concentrations. Some people may need to avoid topical use entirely.

Can I use lemongrass around pets?

Use caution with lemongrass around cats, as they lack certain enzymes to metabolize essential oil compounds. Dogs generally tolerate lemongrass better but may be sensitive to strong scents. Diffuse in well-ventilated areas where pets can leave if bothered, and never apply to pet skin.

What's the difference between West Indian and East Indian lemongrass?

Both are therapeutic, with similar properties and scents. West Indian (C. citratus) is more common and slightly less intense, while East Indian (C. flexuosus) has a more complex, slightly more herbaceous scent preferred in perfumery. For most aromatherapy uses, they're interchangeable.

Last updated: December 30, 2025. This article is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional before using essential oils therapeutically.