(Cymbopogon citratus) A delightful lemony "tea", fantastic on its own or when mixed with other herbs. Though native to India, Lemongrass can now be found growing in many countries around the world. It is used in Asian cooking and has a host of medicinal properties. The citral in lemongrass has antifungal benefits and works as a mild sedative. To use in recipes that call for fresh lemongrass, this dried version will need to be soaked in hot water and reconstituted before use.

Brew 1 tsp of herb in 1 cup of water at 212º - steep for 5 minutes.

Caffeine Free

Thai Cucumber Salad
Recipe from Ifood.tv

Ingredients:
1/2 cup brown rice vinegar
2 tsp sugar
1 tsp curry powder
1 garlic clove, minced
2 stalks lemongrass, yellow part (or 2 Tbsp. dried lemongrass reconstituted in water)
1/2 tsp salt
2 lbs cucumbers, peeled seeded and thinly sliced
1 jalapeno, seeded and minced
3 scallions, thinly sliced diagonally
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, minced
3/4 cup peanuts, chopped

How to make:
1. In a blender add brown rice vinegar, sugar, curry powder, garlic, and salt.
2. Peel the stalk of the lemon grass and then cut the yellow section into thin slices and add to the blender.
3. In a medium bowl add cucumbers, jalapeno, scallions, and cilantro.
4. Mix in the dressing, sprinkle with peanuts, and let the salad marinate for 15 to 20 minutes.

Please Note: The information given here has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.