What Is Lemongrass Hydrosol/Water?
Lemongrass hydrosol is the aromatic water collected during steam distillation of Cymbopogon citratus leaves.
When lemongrass is steam distilled to extract essential oil, the remaining condensed water retains water-soluble plant compounds and microdroplets of essential oil. This gentle aromatic water is called hydrosol.
It is:
- Mild and skin-friendly
- Naturally antibacterial
- Refreshing and balancing
-
Suitable for daily facial misting
Why Is Lemongrass Hydrosol Gaining Popularity?
- Rising demand for chemical-free skincare
- Increase in acne & oily skin concerns due to pollution
- Shift toward Ayurvedic & plant-based beauty
- Desire for multi-purpose products (face, body, scalp, mood)
It acts as:
- Natural toner
- Face mist
- Scalp refresher
-
Body deodorizing spray
Common Indian Names of Lemongrass
In different regions of India, lemongrass is known as:
- North India – Gandhatrina
- Kerala – Inji Pullu
- Tamil Nadu – Vasanai Pullu
- Karnataka – Majjige Hullu
- Maharashtra – Gavati Chaha
-
Assam & Northeast – Commonly called Lemongrass
What Makes It So Popular in Skincare?
The key compound is citral, known for:
- Antibacterial action
- Sebum-regulating ability
-
Anti-inflammatory properties
Research shows citral-rich extracts can inhibit acne-causing bacteria and reduce oil production, making them useful for acne, enlarged pores, and oily skin.
Biggest Skin Concern It Solves (Research-Based)
✔ Acne & Excess Oil
Studies on lemongrass extract indicate:
- Antimicrobial activity against acne-related bacteril
- Oil-balancing effect
- Reduction in skin inflammation
This makes it especially beneficial for:
- Teen acne
- Hormonal breakouts
-
Monsoon/oily climate skin issues
Why Is Lemongrass Hydrosol Transparent?
Pure, steam-distilled lemongrass hydrosol is naturally clear and transparent, not pale yellow.
A genuine hydrosol looks like clean water because it contains only trace amounts of water-soluble plant compounds and micro-droplets of essential oil — which do not significantly alter its color.
If the liquid appears strongly yellow or artificially tinted, it may indicate:
- Added essential oil without proper solubilization
- Artificial coloring
- Contamination or improper storage
A very dark yellow color may indicate contamination or added coloring.
What Does Steam-Distilled Lemongrass Water Contain (Trace Amounts)?
- Citral
- Geraniol
- Limonene
- Flavonoids
- Antioxidants
-
Anti-inflammatory phytochemicals
How to Differentiate Real vs Fake Lemongrass Hydrosol
✔ Mild natural aroma (not sharp like perfume)
✔ No artificial coloring
✔ Slight herbal/cloudy clarity
✔ Ingredient list should say: “Steam distilled lemongrass hydrosol.”
✔ No synthetic fragrance
Fake versions often:
- Smell overly strong
- Are clear like plain water
-
Contains added fragrance
Where Is Lemongrass Grown in India?
Major cultivation areas include:
- Kerala
- Tamil Nadu
- Karnataka
- Assam
- Uttar Pradesh
-
Uttarakhand
India is one of the largest producers of lemongrass oil globally.
Who Should Use Lemongrass Hydrosol for Face Care?
Best For:
- Oily skin
- Acne-prone skin
- Combination skin
- Enlarged pores
-
Humid climate skin issues
How to Use:
- Spray after cleansing as a toner
- Use as a mid-day face mist
- Apply before serum
-
Use post-makeup as a refreshing mist
Is Lemongrass Hydrosol Comedogenic?
No. It is non-comedogenic, meaning it does not clog pores.
However, very sensitive skin types should patch test first.
How Long Does It Take to See Results?
With regular use (2x daily):
- Oil control: 7–10 days
- Visible reduction in minor breakouts: 2–3 weeks
- Improved skin clarity: 3–4 weeks
Consistency is key.
Why Do People Find It Effective for Hand & Feet Care?
Hands and feet sweat more and are prone to:
- Fungal growth
- Odor
-
Roughness
Lemongrass hydrosol works because:
- It is antimicrobial
- Reduces odor-causing bacteria
- Refreshes tired skin
-
Helps maintain hygiene
Who Should Not Use It?
- Very dry, eczema-prone skin (unless diluted further)
- People are allergic to the citrus family of plants
-
Those with extremely sensitive skin
Why Do Parents Prefer It for Kids?
Because:
- It is mild compared to essential oils
- No harsh chemicals
- Naturally deodorizing
- Refreshing in summer
(Always patch tests for children.)
Can It Be Used for Hair Care?
Yes.
Best For:
- Oily scalp
- Dandruff-prone scalp
- Itchy scalp
-
Humid-weather scalp issues
Research suggests lemongrass extracts help reduce dandruff due to antifungal properties.
How to Use:
- Spray on scalp after wash
- Use between washes for freshness
-
Mix with hair masks
Can You Step Out in the Sun After Applying It?
Yes.
Unlike citrus essential oils, properly steam-distilled lemongrass hydrosol is not phototoxic.
However, always apply sunscreen if stepping out.
Why Does It Work as a Natural Body Moisturizer Alternative?
While not oily, it:
- Balances skin pH
- Prevents excessive oil production
- Reduces sweat odor
-
Leaves skin fresh and hydrated
Best for people who dislike heavy lotions in summer.
Lemongrass Tea for Gas & Bloating Relief — Clinically Supported Comfort
Lemongrass tea has been traditionally used in Ayurveda for:
- Gas
- Bloating
- Indigestion
Modern studies suggest it helps:
- Relax the intestinal muscles
- Reduce inflammation
-
Promote digestion
Ayurvedic Nature (Guna & Dosha Effect)
- Rasa (Taste): Tikta (bitter), Katu (pungent)
-
Guna: Light, Dry
Effect on Dosha:
- Reduces Kapha
- Balances Vata (when warm)
-
May increase Pitta in excess
When Inhaled
The aroma:
- Clears mental fog
- Boosts alertness
- Reduces stress
-
Acts as a mild mood lifter
When Used in Food or Beverages
- Supports digestion
- Reduces bloating
- Helps detox
-
Freshens breath
Why People Actually Feel Relief When Used as Face Mist
Because it:
- Instantly cools skin
- Tightens pores
- Reduces oil shine
-
Refreshes senses
The aromatic molecules stimulate the nervous system, giving a perceived cooling and calming effect.
Final Thoughts
Lemongrass hydrosol is a multi-purpose Ayurvedic skincare essential — ideal for oily skin, acne-prone skin, humid climates, scalp freshness, and digestive wellness.
It is gentle, non-comedogenic, refreshing, and backed by both traditional wisdom and modern phytochemical research.
If you’re looking for a natural face toner, scalp mist, body refresher, and digestive support herb, lemongrass hydrosol may be the perfect addition to your routine.