Mental Health Care Tip Of The Month: For The love of Lemongrass

Lemongrass is more than just a popular herb used in Asian cuisine. There’s dozens of ways to use this herb both dried and in its essential oil form.

Lemongrass is native to the tropical regions of Asia. In addition to being used in teas, soups and in other zesty foods, this herb also has anti-fungal and anti-inflammatory properties for your skin. In its essential oil form, it’s also a popular ingredient used in natural insect repellents. But watch out, although it repels mosquitoes and most other insects, it DOES attract honey bees.

Lemongrass is great for calming anxiety, eliminating depression and improving concentration. Burning this essential oil for aromatherapy has rapid soothing, relaxation and emotional balancing effects. It’s the perfect way to unwind when you’re feeling distressed.

Scientifically known as “cymbopogon”, this earthy lemon scented herb has magnificent psychic cleansing abilities. Burn lemongrass incense as way to clear the energy in a room. If you’re feeling depressed or anxious, anoint a white 7-day candle with lemongrass essential oil or dress with the dried herb. After you light the candle, hold it and meditate or visualize all negative energies and entities leaving your space. Visualize yourself in a calm atmosphere. Let the candle burn out or snuff the candle when you’re finished and reuse whenever you need to feel some tranquility.

Mix a few drops of lemongrass essential oil into an unscented lotion or shea butter and use on the go as a tool to keep your mood uplifted. Open the bottle or jar, inhale deeply, exhale then apply your lotion or butter. The scent will remain on your body and keep you grounded throughout the day.

Please know that if you find that this tip or others aren’t enough to help with your depression and anxiety, that it is TOTALLY OK to seek professional medical attention. Sometimes natural remedies aren’t enough and prescription medication can be helpful in SOME cases. Do whatever is necessary to improve your mental health. Always put yourself, your mind and your heart first. Remember, we are not weak, we are warriors! Asé