What is the difference between lemon and lemongrass?
Apart from a certain similarity in taste, they are two completely separate things. First of all, lemon is a citrus fruit and a fruit (that of the lemon tree), while lemongrass belongs to another family of plants, that of grasses, cultivated for their stems and leaves. Lemongrass is therefore a plant, lemon a fruit. To make things a little more complex, know that there are several types of lemongrass. The most common, and which we are talking about here, is called “C. citratus”, “lemongrass” or “Indian verbena”. But she knows other related plants, with fairly similar tastes: lemon thyme, lemon balm, lemon verbena…
What are the benefits of lemon?
Rich in vitamin C, lemon is renowned for its detoxifying properties: it helps with digestion and the elimination of toxins. When combined with tea, lemon juice (or lime juice) would preserve much of the tea's antioxidants...which would otherwise be destroyed by the digestive system before they can pass into the bloodstream.
What are the benefits of lemongrass?
This medicinal plant is best known for being an insecticide. Citronella essential oil is often used as a mosquito repellent. But lemongrass has other virtues, especially when it is directly consumed by the body. It helps with digestion, by being diuretic, that is to say by stimulating the functioning of the kidneys, while having anti-inflammatory properties, helping to fight against the flu, feverish states, rheumatism and joint problems.
What are the benefits of lemon and lemongrass in herbal tea or infusion?
Beyond the unique features of lemongrass and lemon, herbal teas are well-being allies, which help supplement the supply of water to best hydrate the body. Hydration necessary for the evacuation of toxins. If it is up to the digestive system to carry out the work of elimination (this is also called “drainage”), infusions are an additional way to help the body.
How to prepare a homemade lemongrass herbal tea or infusion?
You will need to infuse fresh leaves or lemongrass “sticks”. You can also use dried leaves, which can be stored for much longer. Fresh lemongrass can be found in food stores, particularly Asian stores or supermarkets. Be sure to favor leaves or sticks from organic farming, as they are pesticide-free. Little easy instructions: count 5 sticks of lemongrass for a liter of water. Be sure to wash the sticks then peel them, removing their first layer. Cut the sticks in half lengthwise, flattening them slightly with a knife. Bring the water to a boil, then place the lemongrass (and other plants if necessary) in the saucepan, letting it steep for 10-15 minutes off the heat. The herbal tea can then be drunk hot, or allow it to cool (the infusion continues at room temperature), before filtering it and placing it in a cool place.
How to flavor homemade lemongrass herbal tea?
The taste of lemongrass can be enriched - and rebalanced if necessary - by other plants which will also bring new benefits. We advise you in particular to try the lemongrass-ginger, lemongrass-cinnamon, lemongrass-hibiscus, lemongrass-rosemary, lemongrass-basil, lemongrass-mint or lemongrass-lime blossom duos. In addition, depending on taste, you can also sweeten your lemongrass infusion, with brown sugar, honey, maple or agave syrup. Finally, be aware that lemongrass leaves, widely used in Southeast Asian cuisine, can also flavor salads, broths, marinades, or desserts such as flans or creams.
Where can we find lemongrass in organic blends? Kusmi Tea ?
At Kusmi, we offer you a wide range of teas and infusions, because we don't always have time to make them at home. Among them, our mix Detox, available in bulk or in sachets. Firstborn of our siblings Detox, it enhanced its base of green tea and maté with a zest of lemon and lemongrass. The advantages of this Kusmi recipe (and others)? Aromatic plants from organic farming, packaging made in France, as well as eco-responsible packaging, either recyclable or biodegradable. What more could you ask for? Lemongrass is also present in our blue white red tea Breakfast at the Elysée.
Why choose organic lemongrass herbal tea?
At Kusmi, we strongly recommend that you opt for an organic infusion. Indeed, the appellation guarantees you premium quality leaves that are pesticide-free and raised with respect for the environment. By opting for an organic herbal tea, you will make the most of all the benefits.
Did you know: using lemongrass essential oil
Lemongrass is widely used in the form of essential oil. It would be very effective in repelling mosquitoes, particularly during summer days and nights. It will also help soothe insect bites. Used in cosmetics, it has deodorant and purifying effects.
As you will have understood, lemongrass is a very interesting plant due to its beneficial properties for health. Its use is diverse: oil, herbal tea or infusion, deodorant, water or pain care. For more quality, opt for organic leaves!