Lemongrass essential oil, derived from the plant Cymbopogon flexuosus, is esteemed in Nepal for its therapeutic and aromatic properties. Steam distillation, a process that preserves the integrity of the oil’s volatile components, often achieves the extraction of oil in Nepal. Farmers often collect the grass after it attains the appropriate height, then chop it into small fragments and load it into distillation equipment. In the steam distillation process, these machines often utilize firewood that is readily available in the vicinity. The steam penetrates the lemongrass, thereby extracting the essential oil within. This oil then reverts to a liquid condition. We subject the liquid to water and oil separation, meticulously collecting the oil once it stratifies into two distinct layers. The subtropical climate of Nepal’s mid-hills and Terai regions facilitates the cultivation of lemongrass, which accounts for the majority of the country’s lemongrass output.
The favorable growing conditions and organic agricultural practices in the region contribute to the globally acknowledged quality of essential oil derived from Nepalese lemongrass. The oil is characterized by a strong smell, a pronounced lemony aroma, and elevated levels of active constituents. Nepali producers frequently ensure that the oil is devoid of adulteration and possesses significant therapeutic properties. Conversely, quality may vary due to several factors, including soil conditions, harvest time, and the efficiency of the distillation process. Nepali lemongrass essential oil, due to its adherence to international standards for purity and composition, is a highly coveted commodity in aromatherapy, cosmetics, and fragrance industries.
Depending on the distillation method and the freshness of the plant material, Nepalese lemongrass essential oil can range in color from pale yellow to dark amber. The use of contemporary plants and advanced distillation methods often yields oil of a lighter hue, but employing aged plant material or prolonged distillation procedures may produce oil of a deeper hue.
Citral, a combination of geranial and neral, is a crucial chemical constituent of Nepali lemongrass essential oil. It constitutes 70–80 percent of the total. Citral is the component responsible for the oil’s strong lemon-like aroma and its antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties. Other significant constituents are limonene, myrcene, geraniol, and citronellal, all of which enhance the therapeutic properties of the chemical, including pain relief, stress reduction, and digestive system support. The elevated citral concentration in Nepali lemongrass oil contributes significantly to its esteemed value. Citral is an essential element for several industrial applications, including the manufacture of natural insect repellents, cleaning products, and fragrances.
In conclusion, traditional steam distillation methods produce the premium lemongrass essential oil from Nepal. Due to its vibrant hue, elevated citral concentration, and consistent quality, it has become a prized commodity in both local and international markets. Nepal’s reputation as a dependable supplier of high-quality lemongrass essential oil is strengthening as it intensifies its commitment to sustainable cultivation and processing methods.
