Lemongrass - The Essence of Bali
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The Sacred and Everyday Role of Lemongrass in Balinese Life
Bali, the Island of the Gods, is known for its breathtaking landscapes, deep spirituality, and vibrant cultural traditions. Every element of Balinese life, from food to rituals, is infused with meaning and connection to nature. Among the many plants revered in Bali, lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) holds a special place. This aromatic herb is more than just an ingredient; it carries significance in Balinese cuisine, traditional healing, and spiritual ceremonies.
A Fragrant Foundation
Balinese food is an explosion of flavors, blending aromatic spices, fresh herbs, and tropical ingredients. Lemongrass is a key ingredient in Base Genep, the island’s basic spice paste, that forms the foundation of numerous dishes. Lemongrass is a cornerstone of Balinese cuisine, infusing dishes like Bebek Betutu, Lawar, and Sate Lilit with its citrusy aroma and earthy freshness, adding depth to traditional flavors while also aiding digestion and overall wellness. Whether in rich curries, herbal broths, or refreshing teas, lemongrass embodies the harmony of taste and health in Balinese food culture.
Lemongrass in Balinese Herbal Medicine
Usadha Bali
Balinese spices are herbs that are used in everyday life, especially for medicine and rituals. The traditional Balinese medicine is the organic Balinese community’s knowledge of their organic plants. Before modern medicine entered Bali, traditional knowledge was the frontline health center for its people. Even today, traditional medicine has benefits so that it can survive amidst the domination of modern medicine that offers speed of healing, convenience, product availability etc.
Conventional medicine is referred to as usadha. The treatment is not only used for the treatment of humans, but also animals and plants. Balinese traditional healing, known as Usadha Bali, is based on ancient manuscripts that describe how plants, prayers, and energy work together for healing. Lemongrass is widely used in this system for its ability to cleanse, energize, and protect the body. Balinese healers, apply lemongrass as a natural de-toxifier to purify the body from toxins. One of the traditional herbal beverages made of lemongrass, ginger, and turmeric that was claimed to digest, increase metabolism, and purify blood they called loloh.
Lemongrass tea is also a common home remedy in Bali, they believe that it helps for indigestion, bloating, and nausea and has the ability to soothe the stomach and promote gut health.
Lemongrass is known for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, making it a key ingredient in Balinese herbal compresses and massage oils. Due to ancient time Balinese people, lemongrass is very well-known with boreh traditional warming body mask of lemongrass grounded, ginger, and cloves, which is put on to relax muscle pain and improve blood flow. They would place the boreh on the site of the injury of the body to reduce the swelling and inflammation.
Recent scientific studies have highlighted lemongrass as a powerful natural remedy, showing its potential in reducing hypertension and improving anemia. Research suggests that lemongrass tea may help lower blood pressure by promoting relaxation and improving circulation, while its high antioxidant and iron-boosting properties contribute to enhancing red blood cell production, making it beneficial for those with anemia. These findings reinforce the traditional Balinese belief in lemongrass as a healing herb, blending ancient wisdom with modern science.
For generations, lemongrass has been more than just an herb in Bali—it is a healer, protector, and purifier. Whether in traditional medicine, spiritual rituals, or modern wellness, its benefits remain timeless. As Bali continues to embrace both tradition and innovation, lemongrass remains a symbol of the island’s deep connection to nature, health, and holistic well-being.