Character
The Story of Lemongrass
Cymbopogon citratus delivers a bright, citrus-forward aroma with herbaceous depth. Native to Sri Lanka, this tropical grass has traveled from ancient perfumery to modern fragrance labs, offering fragrances an electrifying lift that cuts through heavy bases.
Heritage
Lemongrass originated in Sri Lanka, where Ancient Asian cultures first valued its fragrant properties. Ancient Egyptian practitioners recognized the grass for medicinal applications long before perfumery adopted it. Trade routes carried Cymbopogon citratus across Southeast Asia, where Ayurvedic and Traditional Chinese Medicine systems incorporated the herb extensively. By the 12th century, perfumery began its revival in Europe, with France eventually becoming a center of fragrance innovation. Thai cuisine elevated lemongrass as a culinary staple, while Western perfumery slowly embraced its bright citrus character. Today, cultivation spans tropical regions from India to Florida, though Indian production dominates the global supply chain.
At a Glance
7
Feature this note
Sri Lanka
Primary source region
Ingredient Details
Steam distillation
Stems and leaves
Did You Know
"India alone produces nearly 80 percent of the world's 600 metric tons of lemongrass essential oil annually."
Pyramid Presence