How Do I Use Fresh Lemon Grass?

Tea and Beverages

• 1

  Fill a loose tea strainer with as many pieces of lemongrass as you can fit. The more the better.

• 2

  Boil a cup of water in a tea kettle or saucepan.

• 3

  Put the steeper in your cup. Pour the boiling water over the steeper and let it sit for three minutes.

• 4

  Drink the tea with honey and cream for taste or add the lemongrass-flavored beverage to a jug of iced tea. This enhances the flavor with a fresh, zesty herb.

Room Spray and Cleaner

• 5

  Add two cups of lemongrass to a stockpot. Add distilled water to it.

• 6

  Boil the lemongrass for three minutes. Reduce the heat and simmer it for 15 minutes.

• 7

  Strain the liquid into a separate bowl, using a mesh strainer. Discard the plant material. The water will be yellowish green and smell strongly of the fresh plant. Let it cool to room temperature.

• 8

  Pour the lemongrass water into the 20 oz. spray bottle.

• 9

  Add ethyl alcohol to the bottle. This preserves the water, keeping it fresh and aromatic. It also makes the scent long lasting when sprayed into the air. Shake the bottle for a minute so the contents mix thoroughly before each use.