Lemongrass is an aromatic perennial grass recognized by its distinct citrusy aroma and flavor, which often resembles lemon without the bitterness. Its strong scent stems from essential oils such as citral.
Natural Consumers of Lemongrass
Lemongrass serves as a food source for a variety of animals, both in wild habitats and agricultural settings. In African savannas, large herbivores like elephants, zebras, and various antelope species naturally consume lemongrass as part of their diet. It provides a plentiful and nutritious resource within their ecosystem. Rhinoceros also consume lemongrass to supplement their nutritional needs.
Livestock such as cattle, goats, sheep, and horses may also graze on lemongrass. Studies have explored feeding dried lemongrass leaves to cattle as a dietary supplement, with some research suggesting a reduction in methane emissions. While some cows might initially find the taste unappealing, they generally consume it when mixed with their regular feed. Beyond large herbivores, smaller animals like rabbits, chickens, and gophers have also been observed eating lemongrass. Rabbits often chew on the tough stalks, finding them palatable, while gophers are known to consume all parts of the plant, including the bulbs. The consumption by these diverse species highlights the plant’s nutritional value, offering fiber, protein, vitamins, and minerals.
Lemongrass and Common Household Pets
For dogs, consuming small amounts of lemongrass is generally considered non-toxic. However, larger quantities can lead to digestive upset, manifesting as vomiting or diarrhea. The fibrous nature of the plant’s stalks also presents a risk of choking or intestinal blockage. Lemongrass essential oil, which is far more concentrated, poses a greater risk of toxicity if ingested or applied directly to the skin.
Cats typically avoid lemongrass due to its strong scent. If they do consume it, even in small amounts, it can cause mild toxicity leading to digestive issues like vomiting, diarrhea, or abdominal pain. Lemongrass essential oil is particularly unsafe for cats, as they lack a specific liver enzyme needed to metabolize its components, potentially resulting in liver damage or respiratory problems.
Rabbits can have lemongrass as an occasional treat in moderation, but it should not form a significant part of their diet. The tough stalks can be beneficial for their dental health as they chew. Lemongrass provides some vitamins, such as B and folate, and minerals like calcium, iron, and manganese. However, overfeeding can lead to digestive problems, and due to its calcium content, it should only be offered a few times a week. Guinea pigs can also consume lemongrass occasionally and in small portions. Its strong oils and fibrous texture mean it is not suitable as a primary food source, and similar to rabbits, its calcium content necessitates limited feeding.
Animals That Typically Avoid Lemongrass
Many animals are deterred by lemongrass, primarily due to its potent citrusy scent and flavor. This aversion is attributed to its essential oil compounds, such as citral, geraniol, and citronellol. These compounds interfere with the sensory systems of various pests, making it difficult for them to locate food or mates.
Numerous insects are repelled by lemongrass. These include mosquitoes, flies (such as stable flies), ants, cockroaches, fleas, ticks, spiders, wasps, mealybugs, and fruit flies. For instance, the citronella oil within lemongrass can suppress the scents of carbon dioxide and lactic acid that attract mosquitoes. For ants, lemongrass can disrupt their pheromone trails, hindering their navigation. Beyond insects, rodents like mice and rats also find the intense citrus aroma overwhelming, and may avoid areas where lemongrass is present. Snakes are another group of animals that tend to avoid lemongrass, as its strong smell can disorient them by interfering with their Jacobson’s organ, which is crucial for their sensory perception. While not toxic, its strong repellent properties make it undesirable, leading them to seek other environments.