When I first heard about lemon grass tea, I thought that it had some kind of lemon, or lemon oil infusion in it. I also wondered if it was indeed made from actual lemons. I was wrong on both assumptions.
Lemon grass, as its named implies, is a species of grass widely used as an herb that is believed to have originated from Malaysia, but is also native to Cambodia, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and India.
The herb can be used for cooking with fish, poultry, soups, and other seafood. It also makes a fine cup of herbal tea!
When harvesting for lemon grass tea, the upper leaves of the plant are cut and broken into what looks like tiny pieces of grass.
The leaves are steeped in almost boiling water for 5 to 7 minutes and produces a brew that has a sweet, yet tangy-lemon flavor which is quite refreshing. This was one of those herbal teas that I did not think I would like, but was surprised after my first sip. The aroma also promised a pleasant flavor.
However, there are two styles for brewing this tea...
I've experienced lemon grass herbal tea from a tea bag, and then by loose leaf, and have to say that the difference is night and day! Brewing this beverage loose leaf style is definitely recommended over the tea bag. I found the flavor from the bag too strong, almost bitter, with over-powering lemon tones. The loose leaf was smoother, more balanced, and tasted much fresher. Simply superior.
Some health benefits offered by lemon grass tea are that it has antibacterial and even antifungal properties. Like other herbal teas mentioned on this site, lemon grass shows evidence in aiding with digestion, as well as lifting ones spirit.
