Ague grass, also known as fever grass or lemon grass, is a perennial grass native to tropical regions, particularly found in Southeast Asia. It belongs to the family of Poaceae and the genus Cymbopogon. The scientific name for ague grass is Cymbopogon citratus.
Ague grass is famous for its distinct lemon-like scent and flavor, which results from its high concentration of citral compound. It is widely cultivated for its various uses, primarily as a culinary herb, medicinal plant, and aromatic ingredient for perfumes and essential oils.
In terms of culinary applications, ague grass is commonly used in Asian cuisines, particularly Southeast Asian and Thai cuisines, to add a citrusy and tangy flavor to a variety of dishes. It is often used in soups, curries, stir-fries, marinades, and teas. Additionally, the grass can be dried and powdered to make a citrus-flavored seasoning.
Medicinally, ague grass has been traditionally used for its therapeutic properties. It is known to possess antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant characteristics. The grass has been used to treat digestive issues, relieve bloating, reduce fever, alleviate pain, and aid in digestion.
Furthermore, ague grass is widely used in cosmetics and perfumery due to its refreshing and uplifting aroma. The grass is steam-distilled to obtain its essential oil, which is then utilized in products such as soaps, lotions, creams, and candles.
Overall, ague grass is a versatile plant that finds applications in cooking, traditional medicine, and fragrance industries due to its distinctive flavor, therapeutic properties, and aromatic qualities.
