Lemongrass is a versatile and redolent herbaceous plant that is commonly used in cooking , especially in Asiatic cuisine . However , there are two main diverseness of lemongrass : West Amerindic and East Indian . These two varieties differ in their characteristics and uses , score them distinct from each other .
1 . Growth and Size : The West Native American lemongrass oil ( Cymbopogon citratus ) tends to be big and more robust compared to the East Indian variety ( Cymbopogon flexuosus ) . West Indian lemongrass plants can uprise up to 6 foot improbable , while East Indian lemongrass generally reaches a pinnacle of 3 - 4 foot .
2 . Stalk vs. leave-taking : One of the key differences between the two varieties lies in their basal custom . West Indian lemon grass is primarily grown for its heavyset stalk , which are commonly used in preparation . On the other hand , East Indian lemongrass is mainly cultivated for its leaves , which are highly fragrant and used to make essential oil , tea leaf , and flavorings .
3 . look and Aroma : Both potpourri of lemongrass oil own a clear-cut citrusy and lemony flavor , but West Indian lemongrass oil run to have a milder taste compared to its East Indian counterpart . The leaves of East Indian lemongrass oil have a stronger scent and high concentrations of essential crude oil , make them more suitable for redolent purposes .
4 . Culinary economic consumption : Due to its thick stalking , West Indian lemon grass is commonly used in cooking to append a subtle citrous fruit flavor to dishes . The stubble are often chop , crushed , or bruise to secrete their aromatic oil colour and are then contribute to soups , curry , stir - french fries , and marinade . The leaves of East Indian lemon grass are typically used to make teas , infusions , and flavoring for afters , beverages , and sauce .
5 . Medicinal and Therapeutic benefit : Both multifariousness of lemon grass have similar medicative properties and are known for their likely health benefits . Lemongrass is believed to have anti - seditious , antibacterial , fungicidal , and antioxidant property . It is often used in traditional practice of medicine to facilitate digestive issues , decoct anxiety , relieve pain , and raise overall well - being .
The main remainder between lemongrass and West Native American lemon grass lies in their primary use . While lemongrass oil is a generic term that refers to both multifariousness , West Native American lemongrass oil is favored for its thick straw used in cooking , whereas East Amerind lemongrass is renowned for its fragrant leave of absence used in teas and substantive oils . However , both varieties provide interchangeable citrusy tang and share many medicinal properties , making them valuable addition to any herb garden or culinary repertory .
Caroline Bates
