There’s something incredibly calming about a warm cup of herbal tea. Among the many options available, lemongrass tea stands out for its fresh citrus aroma, subtle sweetness, and potential health-supporting properties. Whether you’re looking for a natural way to unwind, ease digestion, or simply enjoy a caffeine-free alternative to your usual beverage, lemongrass tea is a wonderful choice.
This tropical plant, known for its long, slender green stalks, has been used for generations in Southeast Asian cooking and traditional medicine. Making your own lemongrass tea at home is surprisingly easy—and the rewards go far beyond just great taste.
In this article, we’ll walk you through how to prepare lemongrass tea, its health benefits, and simple tips to make it part of your daily wellness ritual.
What Is Lemongrass?
Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) is a perennial herb native to Asia and Africa, known for its light lemony scent and flavor. While it’s widely used in cooking, it’s also steeped as tea in many cultures for its calming and digestive-supporting qualities.
The tea is made from either fresh or dried lemongrass leaves and stalks, which are infused in hot water to release their essential oils and flavor.
Lemongrass contains natural compounds such as:
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Citral: Offers the lemon scent and may support digestion
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Myrcene and limonene: Antioxidants that may help neutralize free radicals
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Flavonoids and phenolic compounds: Linked to a range of wellness benefits
How to Make Lemongrass Tea at Home
Brewing lemongrass tea is easy and can be customized to suit your taste. You can use fresh stalks or dried leaves depending on what’s available to you.
Ingredients:
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2 stalks of fresh lemongrass or 1 tablespoon dried lemongrass
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2 cups of water
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Optional: honey, ginger, lemon slices, or mint for flavor
Instructions:
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Prep the lemongrass
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If using fresh stalks, rinse them well and cut off the root end.
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Chop the stalks into small pieces and gently crush them using a rolling pin or the back of a knife to release the oils.
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Boil the water
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Bring 2 cups of water to a boil in a small pot.
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Steep the lemongrass
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Add the lemongrass pieces (or dried leaves) to the boiling water.
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Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10 to 15 minutes.
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Strain and serve
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Strain the tea into a cup using a fine mesh strainer.
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Add honey, a lemon slice, or mint if desired.
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Enjoy hot or pour over ice for a refreshing cold drink.
Health Benefits of Lemongrass Tea
While research is ongoing, lemongrass tea has been valued in traditional health practices for its soothing and detox-supporting qualities.
1. May Support Healthy Digestion
Lemongrass has long been used as a natural digestive aid. It’s believed to help reduce bloating, calm the stomach, and support smoother digestion after meals. Some studies suggest its essential oils may help ease mild cramping or gas.
Try it: Sip a cup after a heavy meal to ease your stomach naturally.
2. Naturally Caffeine-Free and Relaxing
For those cutting back on coffee or looking for a bedtime beverage, lemongrass tea is a great option. It contains no caffeine and is often used as a gentle calming tea in evening routines.
The subtle lemony scent may also help promote a sense of calm, making it a nice way to unwind at the end of a busy day.
Add-ins for relaxation:
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A few slices of fresh ginger
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A pinch of dried chamomile
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A bit of raw honey
3. May Help With Immune Support
Lemongrass is rich in antioxidants such as chlorogenic acid and isoorientin, which help protect cells from oxidative stress. It’s also traditionally used in folk remedies to support the immune system and help the body manage environmental stressors.
Note: It’s not a replacement for medical treatment, but it can be part of a healthy, balanced lifestyle.
4. Light and Hydrating
Drinking more water is essential for overall wellness. For people who find plain water boring, lemongrass tea offers a hydrating alternative with a touch of flavor—without added sugars or calories.
Tip: Keep a pitcher of chilled lemongrass tea in your fridge to sip throughout the day. Add cucumber slices or orange peel for variety.
5. May Support Healthy Skin from Within
While no tea is a magic potion, the antioxidants in lemongrass are believed to play a role in protecting skin cells from environmental damage. Hydration, combined with gentle detox support, may also contribute to clearer skin over time.
Pair it with a whole-food diet, restful sleep, and regular movement for the best results.
Tips for Making the Most of Lemongrass Tea
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Buy organic when possible, especially for dried lemongrass
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Store dried lemongrass in an airtight container away from sunlight to preserve its oils
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Use a tea infuser or muslin bag to reduce mess if brewing loose leaves
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Combine with other herbs like mint, basil, or green tea for added benefits
You can also find lemongrass tea bags in most health stores or online, but homemade tea from fresh or dried stalks offers the richest flavor and aroma.
When to Drink Lemongrass Tea
There’s no wrong time to enjoy this tea, but here are a few suggestions:
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Morning: Start your day with a light, refreshing drink
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After meals: Support digestion and reduce post-meal bloating
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Evening: Wind down without caffeine before bedtime
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Hot days: Chill and serve over ice with lemon slices
Who Should Avoid Lemongrass Tea?
While lemongrass is generally safe in food and tea amounts, it may not be suitable for everyone.
Check with your doctor before drinking regularly if you:
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Are pregnant or breastfeeding
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Have a history of low blood pressure
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Are taking diuretics or medications for fluid balance
As with any herbal remedy, moderation is key.
A Refreshing Step Toward Better Health
Incorporating lemongrass tea into your daily routine is a small but powerful act of self-care. It’s simple, affordable, and offers a refreshing break from sugary drinks or caffeinated beverages. Whether you’re sipping it for the taste, the calm, or the digestive support—it’s a practice worth trying.
Try it out, share it with a friend, or explore other calming herbal teas on our site. You might just find your new favorite daily ritual.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Consult your doctor before making health changes or using herbal remedies, especially if you are pregnant, taking medication, or managing a chronic condition.