Fever Grass (Tea)

Now, it is very crazy to find that what you buy in the grocery store, currently grows wild all over Jamaica. It is known as lemongrass in many parts of the world. It is often referred to as fever grass or bush tea in Jamaica. Fever grass is a staple in cuisines within Southeast Asian countries such as Cambodia, Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia, and Vietnam.

What is Fever grass?

It is known by the scientific name Cymbopogon citratus. A tall, tapered slim structured, light green grass-like plant that grows up and outward from the ground. It is part of the poaceae family. The plants possess an aromatic fragrance of lemons . It can grow as tall as 4 feet and have a width of up to 1 inch. The bush can be as much as 3 feet in diameter. The plant thrives in well-drained soil with temperatures of 45 degrees Fahrenheit and above. This fast-growing plant needs around 6 to 8 hours a day in full sunlight. It’s harvested when reaching a height of at least 12 inches and diameter of half an inch. The fibrous outer layer is stripped and removed, exposing the edible tender inner layer. This plant is an herb used for culinary and medical purpose.

Culinary Purpose

It is used and consumed mainly as a hot tea. Condense milk, sugar, or milk can be added. Fever grass pairs well with cinnamon and fresh ginger. This makes it a great addition to a sauce, soup, or even a stir fry.

Medicinal Purpose

It often dried and uses in Jamaica to help prevent illness. It contains antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antifungal properties. Fever grass aids in fighting cold and coughs. It helps reduce fever and pain. It aids in reducing gastrointestinal disorders. There are diuretic properties in fever grass that help with bloating symptoms reducing water tension and promote urine production. Fever grass contains cancer fighting properties. It is a good overall immune system and oral health booster. It has also been used as an insect repellant. The oil from the lemongrass is extracted then incorporated into candles, cleaning products, insect repellant, perfume, and soaps.

Nutrients

Fever grass provides various nutrients for the body. It contains magnesium which contributes to bone health, nervous function, and decreases sugar levels. Potassium, an essential mineral to the nervous system. There is an addition of trace mineral zinc aiding in metabolism function. There is the contribution of vitamin A which aids in growth, reproduction, and a healthy vision. B vitamins that assist process making of converting food to energy within the body. Vitamins C increase absorption improvement of non-heme iron and protect cells from free radicals. Vitamin E which antioxidant properties acts against cell damage in the body.

Purchase

It can be purchased at most local supermarkets, farmers markets, yet is frequently sold in Asian markets. It is available all year round dried or fresh. Fever grass purchased price can be approximately 3 ounces … $9, 4 ounces … $16, 6 ounces….$18, 16 ounces…$37 up to as much as 5 pounds for $110.

Advertised when purchasing are one hundred precent fever grass in the form of tea bags. There are 24 count tea bags for about $6. They can be delivered right to your doorstep from Angelbrand.com, Amazon.com, or Walmart.com.

Storing

Dried fever grass should be placed in an airtight container. It will last up to 12 months.

Therefore, how can you pass up a cup of this anxiety reducing lemon scented tea. A common Caribbean aromatic bush tea herb with many beneficial health properties. There is a worldwide culinary use in which fevergrass can be added to different cuisine sauces , soups, and more . It has multiple medical uses from fighting fevers to aiding in gastrointestinal disorders. It is available all year round dried or fresh. So, no reason to pass up on this tasty beverage or enhancing the aromas of your dish.