Lemongrass essential oil is derived from the lemongrass plant and has a strong, sweet, lemony aroma. Lemongrass is believed to have antiseptic and astringent properties. In India, it has been used to fight fever, depression and digestive difficulties. It can be used during aromatherapy, blended into lotions, mixed into soaps, used to scent candles or in pest control sprays.
Aromatherapy & Massage Oils
Lemongrass essential oils can be put in bath water or in oil burners for aromatherapy. One teaspoon of lemongrass oil can also be mixed in a bottle with ¼ cup of almond oil and used as a massage oil.
Lotions
When making homemade lotions, lemongrass oil can be added to give it a lemony fragrance. A simple body lotion can be made with lemongrass oil. In a double boiler, slowly melt 1 tbsp. of grated beeswax with ¼ cup of almond oil. Stir the beeswax in the oil until it is melted, then add ¼ cup of witch hazel and 2 tsp. of lemongrass essential oil. Let the mixture cool a bit, and then squeeze the contents of about two vitamin E capsules and stir until cool but still pourable. Pour the mixture into a container, and seal with a tight lid.
Soaps
The antiseptic and astringent properties of lemongrass oil make it a natural choice for soaps. A soap with lemongrass and eucalyptus oil can work wonders for inflamed or irritated skin. In a double boiler, melt 4 ounces of glycerin soap base. Once the glycerin is melted, add 1 tbsp. of grated beeswax and stir until it is melted. Stir in 1 tsp. each of lemongrass and eucalyptus essential oils. Soap dye can be added at this point. Continue stirring the mixture, and pour into soap molds. Allow it to dry, and then remove from the molds.
Candles
A homemade lemongrass-scented candle can produce a nice, strong fragrance. In a double boiler, melt about half a block of paraffin or beeswax over low heat. Once it has melted, stir in 1 tsp. of lemongrass essential oil (more can be added for a stronger scent). A lemony yellow candle dye can be used to color the melted wax. Use a small amount of wax to glue the aluminum bottom of a wick to a tempered glass or plastic container. Once the wick is stable, pour melted wax into the container and allow to harden.
Pest Control
Lemongrass and citronella belong to the same family of plants and can repel pests. A simple mosquito spray with lemongrass and citronella can be made at home. In a spray bottle, combine ¼ cup of water with ¼ cup of witch hazel. Put the lid on the spray bottle and shake to combine. Once combined, add 2 tbsp. each of citronella and lemongrass essential oils. Shake well to blend.
Tags: , essential oils, with lemongrass, antiseptic astringent, antiseptic astringent properties