The fresh stalks can be found in Asian markets and now in many health food markets. When using it fresh, strip off the tough outer leaves and cut off the bottom root portion. Cut into longer strips if you are not going to strain your dish so you can remove these course pieces before serving. Lemon grass is also used as the basis of popular drink in the tropics, and as a tea. It is used in teas to combat depression and bad moods, fight fever and as well as nervous and digestive disorders.
Studies show that lemon grass has antibacterial and antifungal properties.
The oil is used to cleanse oily skin, and in aromatherapy it is used as a relaxant. Valued for its exotic citrus fragrance, it is commercially used in soaps, perfumes and as an ingredient in sachets. Lemon grass freezes well which is a good thing, It can be stored whole in the refrigerator in plastic bag in the freezer. It holds well for up to five months. If using dried lemon grass, soak in hot water to reconstitute.