Description
Lemongrass — sera — is one of the most loved aromatic grasses of the tropics, and a fixture of Sri Lankan kitchens and gardens. Known in Ayurveda as Bhustrina, it is described as carrying Katu (pungent) and Tikta (bitter) rasa with a pungent vipaka, and valued as a cooling, harmonising herb that pacifies Pitta and Kapha.
In this tradition sera is taken to kindle Agni and ease the stomach — relieving bloating, gas and sluggish digestion — while calming the nervous system and lifting the mood. It is prized as a gentle cleanser that helps clear Ama (the body’s accumulated toxins), and has long been used for coughs, colds and fevers; in Sri Lanka it is often steeped with ginger for comfort and postpartum care.
Sri Lanka’s lemongrass carries a particularly clean, bright citral aroma — the trait that makes the island’s sera prized for both tea and essential oils. Grown in home gardens across the island and gently dried, it makes a fragrant, everyday infusion the whole family can enjoy
How to Use
As a herbal tea: Steep 1 teaspoon (about 2g) in freshly boiled water for 5 minutes, then strain. Naturally caffeine-free — lovely any time of day.
With ginger & honey: The classic Sri Lankan pairing — warming and soothing.
Blend base: Combine with curry leaf, butterfly pea or hibiscus for your own signature infusion.
In the kitchen: Steep and use the infusion in broths, rice, poaching liquids and cordials.
Iced: Brew strong, chill and pour over ice with a squeeze of lime.
Health Benefits
Digestive calm: In Ayurveda, sera kindles Agni and is traditionally taken to ease bloating, gas and indigestion.
Stress & mood: Traditionally valued to calm the nervous system, relieve fatigue and uplift the mood.
Detox & cleansing: Long used as a gentle cleanser to help clear Ama and support the system.
Respiratory comfort: Traditionally taken for coughs, colds and seasonal congestion.
Antioxidant: A natural source of citral and other antioxidant compounds.
Sources: Representative research: reviews of Cymbopogon citratus traditional use and pharmacology (citral; antioxidant, digestive and calming activity).
Sourcing
Lemongrass grows readily in home gardens across Sri Lanka. We source from home gardens and small farmers, gently drying the cut leaf to hold its bright citral aroma. Much of this produce is naturally free of chemical inputs but not yet connected to organic networks; supporting these growers is part of our ongoing Regenerative Agriculture pilot.
