Lemongrass essential oil is a steam-distilled oil extracted from the leaves of lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus), prized for its fresh, earthy, citrus aroma. It is used mainly in aromatherapy to freshen and uplift a room, and, when properly diluted, in skincare to help tone and purify oily skin. It is for external and diffuser use only, never to be swallowed.
What lemongrass essential oil is
This is a pure aromatic oil, thin in consistency and slightly yellow to yellow in colour. It carries the bright, lemony scent that most Indians recognise from lemongrass tea and South Indian gardens, but far more concentrated. Azlok's lemongrass essential oil is produced in India through steam distillation and comes in sizes from 100 GM right up to 25 KG, so both home users and small businesses can buy what suits them.
Common uses
- Aromatherapy and air freshening: A few drops in a diffuser create a clean, invigorating atmosphere and help mask cooking or damp smells.
- Oily skin care: Well diluted, it can be blended into facial mists, toners and cleansers to help balance excess oil and reduce the look of large pores.
- DIY products: Popular in homemade soaps, candles, room sprays and reed diffusers for its long-lasting citrus note.
- Natural cleaning sprays: Added to household surface sprays for a fresh scent.
- Massage blends: Diluted into a carrier oil for a refreshing, warming massage oil.
How to use it
Lemongrass oil is potent, so a little goes a long way. Follow these simple guidelines:
- Diffuser: Add 3 to 6 drops to water in an aroma diffuser. Blend with lavender or geranium for a softer scent.
- Skincare: Always dilute. Keep the total essential oil concentration to about 1% for facial products, which is roughly 1 drop per 5 ml of carrier such as jojoba or sweet almond oil.
- Massage oil: Mix 5 to 6 drops into 30 ml of carrier oil.
- Room spray: Combine 10 to 15 drops with a small amount of alcohol (it is soluble in alcohol) and top up with water in a spray bottle. Shake before each use.
Blending ideas
Lemongrass pairs beautifully with a range of oils. For a calming yet fresh mood, blend it with lavender essential oil. For skincare, geranium oil adds balance, while carriers like jojoba and almond oil dilute it safely for the skin. Start with small test batches and adjust the ratio until the scent feels right.
Safety notes
Essential oils are concentrated and deserve respect. Please keep these points in mind:
- Never apply undiluted to skin. Lemongrass can irritate or sensitise skin when used neat.
- Patch-test first: Apply a small diluted amount to your inner forearm and wait 24 hours before wider use.
- Do not ingest. This is an aromatherapy and cosmetic-use oil, not a food flavouring.
- Keep away from children and pets, and away from eyes and mucous membranes.
- Ventilate the room during diffuser use, and avoid prolonged, continuous diffusing.
- If you are pregnant, breastfeeding or have a medical condition, consult a qualified practitioner before use.
- The oil is flammable (flash point around 100°F), so keep it away from open flame.
Buying and storage tips
Choose pure, steam-distilled oil and check that the botanical name reads Cymbopogon citratus. A genuine oil has a strong, fresh citrus-earthy aroma and a thin consistency. Store it in a tightly closed, dark glass bottle away from heat and direct sunlight. Kept well, lemongrass essential oil has a shelf life of about two years. Larger bulk packs are handy for soap and candle makers, but decant small working quantities to keep the main stock stable.
FAQ
Can I apply lemongrass essential oil directly to my skin?
No. It should always be diluted in a carrier oil such as jojoba or almond, generally around 1% for facial use, and patch-tested before regular use.
Is lemongrass essential oil safe to drink or add to tea?
No. This is a concentrated oil meant for aromatherapy and external cosmetic use only. Use fresh or dried lemongrass leaves for tea instead.
What does lemongrass essential oil smell like?
It has a fresh, earthy, citrus scent, similar to lemongrass leaves but far more intense and long-lasting.
Which oils blend well with lemongrass?
It blends nicely with lavender and geranium essential oils, and with carrier oils like jojoba and almond for skincare and massage.
How long does it last?
Stored in a cool, dark place in a sealed bottle, it stays good for about two years.