Maarr (native lemon grass)

This native lemongrass, known as Maarr in Nyul Nyul, grows abundantly throughout Australia’s warmer climates in Central Australia, Western Australia, the Northern Territory and Northern Queensland. The aromatic clumping grass can grow to a height of around one metre, but is usually harvested at 30 centimetres.

Maarr is a traditional bush medicine, known to treat flu symptoms, headaches, stomach upsets and skin infections. The grass can be dried and stored, then mixed with hot water for tea, or crushed together to make a topical skin ointment.

Sales of Maarr support two Indigenous communities who rely on wild-harvesting native produce as a source of income and cultural engagement.

Image source: image one, image two, image three.

When the leaves are boiled into a tea, Maarr is used to treat the symptoms of colds and flu, migraine, and digestive issues. A 2010 Griffith University study found that native lemongrass may be just as beneficial as Aspirin at relieving the effects of headaches and migraines.

Maarr has a fragrant, citrusy aroma, with a subtle taste of ginger.

Maarr is delicious boiled up as a tea, but can also be used to flavour soups, stews, curries, marinades and cakes.

Simply steep 1 tbs of tea in boiling water for 2 minutes to experience the delicious flavour of the Australian bush and renowned immunity strengthening properties.