English Name: Lemon Grass
Local Name: Tanglad / Tangad
Local Name: Tanglad / Tangad
Commonly valuable and grown in households across the countryside, Lemon grass (Cybopogon nardus /Citronella winterianus) or Tanglad (is it is commonly called in the country) is not just a great spice and aromatic for the traditional roasted chicken (lechon manok) and other stews but has more to offer aside from just pleasing our appetite.
Recent studies conducted by Israeli scientists on this humble grass revealed its cancer fighting qualities where its extract known as Citral (which gives the plant its citrus smell) causes cancer cells to kill themselves without damaging healthy cells.
Locally, Lemon grass is also gaining popularity as the plant of choice for households that want to deter mosquitoes. One may simply plant a handful of stalks in the ground or a potting medium near the home and enjoy its repelling benefits. There are also commercially available mosquito sprays and lotion which contain Lemon grass extract as base.
How to make Lemon Grass Tea
1. Get a handful of Lemon Grass leaves (clove included) and peel out the outer layer of the leaves and discard them.
2. Let the leaves boil in water for about 20-30 minutes until the color changes to brown.
3. Add sugar or your preferred sweetener and let it simmer for a few more minutes.
4. Remove the mixture from the fire and using a strainer, strain the mixture in a cup and drink it hot.
