What is the History of the Herb Lemongrass?

Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citrates) is a popular herb in folk remedies and aromatherapy. Lemongrass essential oil has been used in Indian aromatherapy for centuries. The tropical plant is native to Asia and is grown commercially in Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia and China today, according to the Pakistan Ministry of Food and Agriculture.

Folk Medicine

• Lemongrass is one of the most popular herbs used in traditional South American folk medicine. It can help control muscle spasms, reduce fevers and manage nervous and gastrointestinal disorders, according to Drugs.com. It is also used as an antiseptic in India.

Cooking

• Traditional Malaysian, Indonesia and Indian cooking often utilizes lemongrass in poultry, seafood and vegetable recipes, according to the website Online Family Doctor. It pairs well with coconut milk. Lemongrass is also used in pickles, teas and marinades.

Fighting Cancer

• A 1997 scientific study published in the "Indian Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences" found that lemongrass helped to fight leukemia cells in mice and humans, according to Drugs.com.