A plant record

Lemongrass (Sitwonèl)

Cymbopogon citratus

EnglishLemongrass

KreyòlSitwonèl

FrançaisCitronnelle

BotanicalCymbopogon citratus

Lemongrass (Sitwonèl) — Cymbopogon citratus, used in Haitian and Caribbean herbal tradition

Traditionally used

Fever, colds, flu, digestive complaints, gas, anxiety, nervous tension, mild hypertension

Prepared as

The fresh or dried leaves are cut and steeped in just-boiled water, covered, for about ten minutes to make an aromatic tea, using a small handful of leaves per cup. It is drunk warm two or three times a day for fever, colds, or an upset stomach, and a cup in the evening helps settle restlessness.

In three languages

Kreyòl — Lafyèv, grip, refwadisman, pwoblèm dijesyon, gaz, kè sote, tansyon nè, ti tansyon wo

Français — Fièvre, rhumes, grippe, troubles digestifs, gaz, anxiété, tension nerveuse, légère hypertension

Safety

Safety notes for this plant are still being written. Until they are, treat it with a cautious hand.

Plants can look similar and be misidentified — always verify with a local herbalist or guide before use.

Kept alongside

LicoricePineapplePeacock flowerCalotropePapayaRingworm senna

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