Lemongrass

Lemongrass may be introduced as soon as baby is ready to start solids, which is generally around 6 months of age. 

Lemongrass originated in the tropics of South and Southeast Asia, where it has been used as food and medicine for centuries. The plant’s thick stems have a strong lemony aroma and robust flavor that add brightness to sauces, soups, and stews. While its leaves are not edible, they are often used along with the stems to make tea and flavor stock.

It can be. While finely chopped or powdered lemongrass presents a low risk, thick pieces of lemongrass can be firm and challenging to chew, which are qualities that increase the choking risk. To reduce the risk, prepare and serve lemongrass in an age-appropriate way as described in the How to Serve section. As always, make sure you create a safe eating environment and stay within an arm’s reach of baby during meals.

Learn the signs of choking and gagging and more about choking first aid in our free guides, Infant Rescue and Toddler Rescue.

No, lemongrass is not a common food allergen, although allergic reactions to lemongrass have been reported.^{[1] [2]} When handling lemongrass, make sure to wash the hands and any skin that comes into contact with the lemongrass as its essential oils can be irritating to the skin and cause allergic or contact dermatitis in certain individuals.^[3]

As you would when introducing any new food, start by offering a small quantity for the first few servings. If there is no adverse reaction, gradually increase the quantity over future meals.

Yes, lemongrass is generally recognized as safe in amounts typically used in cooking.^[4] Avoid offering lemongrass supplements and essential oils to babies and toddlers, as they have not been studied adequately in young children.^[5] Lastly, out of an abundance of caution, keep lemongrass-based insect repellents out of a child’s reach, as they can be toxic when ingested.^{[6] [7]}

Yes. While lemongrass isn’t typically consumed in amounts considered nutritionally significant, it does offer small amounts of various nutrients like iron, potassium, zinc, and vitamin C, as well as antioxidative properties.^[8]

After the first birthday, you can offer lemongrass tea in a cup–just make sure it is no longer hot before serving. Do not give tea or beverages besides breast milk, formula, or small amounts of water to babies under 12 months of age.