You are not supposed to laugh at the misfortunes of others.  This is the first thing your grandparents would have taught you. This is also the very thing you need to bear in mind now as I share my oh-so intriguing tale with you.

So…some months ago, Mother Nature was keen to stamp her authority all over my universe. She served me up some of the best cramps since the dawn of time.  Immediately, a voice screamed inside my head that I ought to hasten to one of the clumps of fever grass growing outside.  And, in a daze, I did hasten to a clump and dizzily cut myself a few blades of the saviour bush.

I returned to the house and took care to rinse the blades. After bringing some water to boil, I found the biggest mug, poured the water into it, hastily tossed the blades in and left my cure to steep with a saucer placed securely over the mug. I checked the concoction after a few minutes. It looked a bit too green.  I tasted it.  The usual kick was definitely missing.

Initially, I blamed it on the blades being “old”.  I then blamed it on my not steeping the blades long enough.  Indeed, before long, I had chalked it down to, among other things: the recent drought, ozone depletion, and baby fever grass having baby fever grass. But, I did the only thing a woman in my position would do.  I added a bit of sugar then drank most of the brew.  After drinking most of the mixture, I did feel a bit better, but remained convinced that something had gone awry with the potion.

Later that day, I opted to inspect the clump from which I had cut the few blades. I cut one blade and sniffed it curiously. Yes, you guessed it!  In the throes of my menstrual woes (that’s my story and I’m sticking to it) I’d missed the fever grass patch by a mile and settled instead for good old common grass that had gotten out of hand.

So, with me still alive and all, let me refresh my memory and yours on the characteristics of the fever grass. Fever grass, also known as lemon grass has the appearance of tall grass. Its blades, stalks and sometimes roots are often brewed as a tea.  It’s also, reportedly, quite the rage in Asian cuisine. It has a very distinct aromatic-citrusy-(think-lemon-like) fragrance.

Have a sip of fever grass tea and you’ll find yourself a guest at the wedding of Mr. Lemon to Ms. Ginger. It’s a good wedding! At the reception would be so many grandparents admonishing that the fever grass is a fever’s number one foe. And, great-grandparents would chime in that fever grass (tea) detoxifies the liver, kidneys and all, is marvelous for “menstrual troubles”, nausea, beckoning a great night’s sleep and reducing blood pressure.

Moreover, the rumour miller, seated next to you, would mill you a tale that fever grass is great for the skin- capable of reducing acne and pimples (maybe as a poultice??). Of course, farmers and others may not think too highly of this “grass” which can be quite invasive if left unchecked.

But farmers, aside, there are many who, feverish or not, from time to time, relish the treat that is a nice steaming cup of fever grass bush tea. Just remember- moderation is key. I learnt that a while back…but, one story of humiliation per week is fine enough.

What are your thoughts on the fever grass??

Disclaimer:

The contents of this page are meant for educational and entertainment purposes only. Statements published here ought not to be taken as expert medical advice designed to treat/cure any diseases or health related conditions. Please talk to your doctor or any qualified healthcare professional if you need medical advice (Believe me, WE at RE:BELLE WOULD!)