A cold glass of lemon grass tea is refreshing on a hot summer day.

Lemon grass is a tropical grass meaning that for our garden here in Newnan, Georgia that we have to replant each year.  It can be planted in the ground or in containers.  If planting in containers you can bring it in for winter protection and put it back outside as soon as danger of freezing weather is over.

Lemon grass is one of the herbs that has different uses.  It is a culinary herb, a medicinal herb and is also great for deterring insects.  It is a natural diuretic aiding in removing excess fluids from the body.  It aids in digestion and has also been touted to relieve arthritis pain, helps to reduce symptoms of colds, and helps with insomnia.  We usually use it in teas for enjoyment but also for it’s health benefits. It is also used for soups and other dishes. Teas are extremely easy to make and enjoy. Try some.  The lemon grass can be used either fresh or dried.  The recipes will show how to use either way. Enjoy and reap the benefits!

****Note:  Not recommended for pregnant women*****

Lemongrass Tea Using Fresh Lemon Grass

2 fresh lemon grass leaves

1 cup boiling water

Optional:  sweetener to taste

Cut the lemon grass leaves into 1/2″ pieces.

Pour boiling water over the lemon grass leaves either into a cup or teapot

Let steep 5-10 minutes

Strain and either sweeten or enjoy as it is.

Makes 1 serving.

Lemongrass Tea Using Dried Lemon Grass

2 teaspoons dried crushed lemongrass leaves

1 cup boiling water

Optional:  sweetener to taste

Pour boiling water over the lemongrass either in a cup or teapot

Let steep for 10-15 minutes

Strain and either sweeten or enjoy as it is.

Makes 1 serving.

Lemongrass Ginger Tea

6 lemongrass stalks

2″ slice of ginger

Quart of water

Optional: chamomile tea bag

Place lemongrass, ginger and tea bag in a boiler with the water.  Bring to a boil and reduce heat to simmer for about 10 minutes. Strain and enjoy as is or sweeten to taste.

Makes about 4 servings.