Key takeaways
- Bright citrus flavor from citral — the same compound that makes lemons smell like lemons.
- Traditionally used for digestion, mild anxiety, and low-grade fevers.
- Naturally caffeine-free — a great all-day tea.
- Generally very safe; use small amounts in pregnancy.
What is lemongrass?
Lemongrass is a tall tropical grass in the Cymbopogon genus. The white bases of the stalks are the culinary star in Thai, Vietnamese, and Indonesian cooking; the leaves are what get dried for tea.
Traditional uses
Southeast Asian and African folk medicine has used lemongrass for digestion, mild anxiety, fever, and cold. In Brazil it's called 'capim-santo' (holy grass) and given as a bedtime tea to calm restless kids.
Potential wellness benefits
Traditional uses and preliminary research — not medical claims. See safety notes below.
Digestive comfort
Traditionally used for bloating, cramps, and mild indigestion — a gentler alternative to peppermint for people with reflux.
Calming without sedation
The citrus aroma is uplifting; small studies suggest it may reduce mild anxiety without making you drowsy.
Antioxidant activity
Citral and other volatile oils have measurable antioxidant activity in laboratory studies.
Antimicrobial in the mouth
Traditionally used as a mouth rinse; lemongrass oil has shown activity against oral bacteria.
Nutritional profile
- Citral (main aromatic)
- Geraniol and myrcene
- Flavonoids
- Small amounts of vitamin A, folate, and manganese
How to brew lemongrass
- 1
1 tbsp fresh or 1 tsp dried per 8 oz
For fresh lemongrass, bruise a 4-inch stalk with the back of a knife to release the oils.
- 2
Simmer 5–10 minutes, covered
Longer simmering deepens the flavor. Strain out the leaves once it reaches your preferred strength.
- 3
Serve hot or iced
Add ginger for a warming version, or lime and mint for a Southeast-Asian-style iced tea.
Safety information
Lemongrass tea is very well tolerated. Use small amounts in pregnancy — high doses have shown effects on the uterus in animal studies. Concentrated lemongrass essential oil should not be swallowed.
These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This herb is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Talk to a qualified healthcare professional about what's right for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is lemongrass tea good for sleep?＋
It's calming without being sedating — pair it with chamomile for a stronger bedtime blend.
Can I drink lemongrass tea every day?＋
Yes — daily tea amounts are considered safe for most adults.
Fresh vs dried lemongrass — which is better?＋
Fresh has the brightest citrus notes; dried is more convenient and still very aromatic.