This tropical aromatic plant, native to Southeast Asia and very similar to citronella, but is commonly used in cuisine for its numerous benefits such as its relaxing aroma, antibacterial properties which aid with digestion among other advantages.
The plant also is low-maintenance and grows in spikey long leaves which can extend up to 2.5 meters.
Citral, a compound found in lemongrass, gives it the aromatic and calming scent we all know. Lemongrass also is antibacterial and antiseptic.
We at Herbal Kulen use the aerial leaves for our herbal tea, and essential oil, and in our gin, the stem is used as well.
FOREST GARDEN LAYER: Herbaceous Layer
HARVEST SEASON: May to december
KHMER MEDICINAL PROPERTY: Cold