The History of Lemongrass Essential Oil

Lemongrass grown in the vegetable garden, herbs have medicinal properties.

Lemongrass essential oil is a popular and versatile oil known for its refreshing and citrusy scent. It has a rich history, dating back centuries, and its aromatic properties have made it a staple in aromatherapy and soapmaking. In this article, we’ll delve into the history of lemongrass essential oil, its current uses, research findings, benefits in aromatherapy, and its application in soapmaking. To top it off, we’ll even share a delightful recipe for a batch of soap featuring a blend of essential oils with lemongrass as the star.

The History of Lemongrass Essential Oil:

Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) is a tall grass native to tropical regions, particularly Southeast Asia. It has been used for centuries in traditional medicine and culinary practices. The extraction of lemongrass essential oil involves steam distillation of the plant’s leaves, yielding a fragrant oil with a bright, lemony aroma.

Traditional Uses and Current Applications:

Lemongrass essential oil has a wide range of uses and benefits. In traditional medicine, it has been employed to alleviate digestive issues, reduce inflammation, and soothe muscle pain. Today, it is commonly utilized in aromatherapy for its uplifting and stress-relieving properties. It is believed to promote relaxation, mental clarity, and improve overall mood.

Research on Lemongrass Essential Oil:

Several studies have explored the potential health benefits of lemongrass essential oil. Research indicates that it possesses antimicrobial, antifungal, and antioxidant properties. It has shown promise in fighting certain bacteria and fungi, including those responsible for common skin infections. Furthermore, some studies suggest that lemongrass essential oil may have anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, supporting its traditional use for pain relief.

Aromatherapy Benefits: Lemongrass essential oil is highly regarded in aromatherapy due to its invigorating and energizing aroma. Its citrusy scent is believed to promote mental clarity, enhance concentration, and uplift the mood. It can be used in diffusers, inhalers, massage oils, and bath products to create a refreshing and revitalizing ambiance.

Lemongrass in Soapmaking:

Lemongrass essential oil is a popular choice among soapmakers for its delightful scent and potential benefits to the skin. Its antifungal and antibacterial properties make it a valuable addition to soaps intended for blemish-prone or oily skin. The vibrant aroma of lemongrass also adds a refreshing touch to handmade soaps.

Recipe:

Lemongrass-Infused Soap Blend Here’s a simple recipe for a batch of soap that incorporates lemongrass essential oil as part of a delightful blend:

Ingredients:

Instructions:

  1. Follow standard soapmaking procedures and safety guidelines when working with lye.
  2. Melt the oils and shea butter together in a double boiler until fully combined.
  3. In a well-ventilated area, carefully add the lye to the water, stirring gently until dissolved.
  4. Allow both the oils and lye mixture to cool to around 40°C (104°F).
  5. Slowly pour the lye mixture into the oils, stirring continuously.

When adding essential oils to cold process soap, it’s important to follow proper guidelines to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the soap. Here’s a step-by-step process for incorporating essential oils into cold process soap:

  1. Calculate the appropriate amount: Determine the total weight of your soap batch and refer to a soap calculator to determine the recommended usage rate for the essential oil(s) you’re using. This will depend on factors such as the specific essential oil and its potency.
    1. Prepare the essential oil blend: If you’re using multiple essential oils, create your desired blend by combining them in a separate container. Stir gently to ensure they are well mixed.
  2. Add the essential oils to the soap mixture: Once your soap batter has reached trace (the point where it has thickened to a pudding-like consistency), it’s ready for the addition of essential oils. Pour the essential oil blend into the soap batter.
  3. Incorporate the essential oils: Use a spatula or whisk to thoroughly mix the essential oils into the soap batter. Make sure the oils are evenly distributed throughout the mixture to ensure consistent scent in the final soap.
  4. Pour the soap into molds: After thoroughly mixing the essential oils, pour the soap batter into your chosen molds. Tap the molds gently on a flat surface to release any air bubbles that may have formed.
  5. Cure the soap: Allow the soap to cure in the molds for 24 to 48 hours. During this time, it will continue to harden and saponify. After the initial curing period, unmold the soap and let it cure in a well-ventilated area for 4 to 6 weeks. This will allow the soap to fully harden and the excess water to evaporate, resulting in a longer-lasting and milder soap.