Lemongrass

Lemongrass is a tall, perennial plant with a strong citrus scent and many uses. It is scientifically called Cymbopogon citratus and is part of the Poaceae family. It is native to tropical regions like Southeast Asia and India. Lemongrass is a popular herb in Asian cooking, used as a flavour in soups, curries, and teas.

Lemongrass offers multiple benefits beyond its culinary applications. With a long history in traditional medicine, it is prized for its potent antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory effects. An everyday use of lemongrass is to add flavour to tea. It aids digestion, reduces bloating, and calms anxiety. The tea is often consumed to detoxify the body, improve oral health, and relieve cold symptoms.

Lemongrass contains phytochemicals like citral and limonene, which provide ample health benefits. Citral is noted for its ability to reduce inflammation and fight infections. Lemongrass essential oil is popular in aromatherapy. It has calming effects. It's also used in skin care to fight bacteria.

Lemongrass has many health benefits, but it is advised to use it in moderation. Moderation is especially important for those with sensitivities or low blood pressure, as excessive use may cause dizziness or allergic reactions. Incorporating lemongrass into your daily routine can promote both taste and health benefits. You can use it in tea, essential oils, or cooking.

Lemongrass, scientifically known as Cymbopogon citratus, is known by several alternative names, each reflecting its widespread use across different cultures and regions. 

Common synonyms include:

• Citronella grass
• Fever grass 
• Barbed wire grass
• Silky heads
• Cochin grass
• Malabar grass 

These names emphasise its dual role in both medicinal and culinary applications globally. While citronella grass is often associated with insect-repellent properties, fever grass highlights its traditional use in reducing fever. These diverse names showcase the plant’s multifaceted benefits across various cultures.

The following table reflects lemongrass's nutritional composition, highlighting its key nutrients, such as vitamins, minerals, and fats.

The following given pointers highlight the benefits of lemongrass:

1. Benefits of Lemongrass for High Cholesterol

Lemongrass positively impacts cholesterol levels by raising HDL (good) cholesterol and lowering LDL (bad) cholesterol, thus improving the overall lipid profile. It has high antioxidants that minimise the destruction of cells in the body. Thissupports heart health and reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

2. Benefits of Lemongrass for Hypertension

Lemongrass is known to have a mild diuretic effect, helping to lower blood pressure by promoting the elimination of excess water and sodium from the body. Its potassium content helps relax blood vessels, reduce fatigue, improve blood flow, and regulate high blood pressure naturally without needing medication.

3. Benefits of Lemongrass for Diabetes

Lemongrass helps manage diabetes. It boosts insulin sensitivity and regulates blood sugar. Its antioxidants protect the pancreas from oxidative stress. This may improve glucose metabolism and lower the risk of diabetes complications.

4. Benefits of Lemongrass for Cough

Lemongrass is beneficial for relieving cough due to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It helps soothe the respiratory system, reduce throat irritation, and clear mucus. Its antioxidant content supports the immune system, helping the body fight infections that cause cough, while providing relief from congestion and other symptoms.

5. Benefits of Lemongrass for Flatulence

Lemongrass helps digestion and reduces gas since it inhibits the contraction of muscles in the digestive muscles. It also increases the secretion of digestive enzymes. This eases bloating and gas. Thus, it is effective for treating digestive problems.

6. Benefits of Lemongrass for Rheumatoid Arthritis

Lemongrass contains anti-inflammatory materials. They alleviate symptoms of inflammation, swelling, and pain due to arthritis. It has a healing effect for arthritic pains. It enhances the range of joint motion, improves mobility, and provides comfort.

7. Benefits of Lemongrass for Dandruff

Lemongrass essential oil has benefits that help get rid of dandruff. It works as an antifungal and also as an antibacterial. This makes it worthwhile to reduce itch and flakiness on the scalp. It helps nourish the scalp and does not support the growth of dandruff.

8. Benefits of Lemongrass for Fungal Infections (Thrush)

The antifungal activity of lemongrass is significantly high. It is an herbal treatment for oral thrush and other mouth fungal infections that aid in eradicating fungal development and bringing back a healthy mouth.

9. Benefits of Lemongrass for Swelling

Lemongrass contains elements that help to reduce inflammation. They assist in lowering inflammation and edema in the body. Lemongrass is suitable for treating pain and quick recovery. Additionally, due to its anti-inflammatory properties, lemongrass is effective in managing injury, infections, and various chronic conditions.

The following points show the many uses of lemongrass in food and health:

• Culinary and Medicinal Uses: Lemongrass is an aromatic herb used widely in Asian cuisine as a flavor enhancer in soups, curries, and stir-fried dishes. In addition to its culinary value, lemongrass is known for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties, making it a valuable medicinal herb.
• Lemongrass Tea: Preparing lemongrass tea is one popular method of using this aromatic plant. Recent studies have shown that it has soothing effects and helps digestion. Lemongrass tea is also helpful in cleansing the body and internal system and strengthening the immune system.
• Essential Oils and Aromatherapy: Lemongrass oil is used in aromatherapy. It helps to avoid stress and become a promoter for relaxation. It also has antibacterial properties which is effective in skincare.

Lemongrass has numerous health benefits and other uses when used in cooking. However, just like any other natural plant, there is always a word of caution when using this herb. Below are some key precautions to consider:

1. Ask a Healthcare Practitioner

You should consult your doctor before taking large amounts of lemongrass or supplements made out of it. This is important for a woman who is pregnant or breastfeeding the baby. It is suggested that lemongrass stimulates the uterus to contract.

2. Allergic Reactions

Some people may develop an allergic reaction to lemongrass. This can also cause rash, itching, redness, mucosal swelling, and breathing difficulties. If you are sensitive to grasses or essential oils, use the product with optimum care and immediately stop if you develop any reactions.

3. Dosage and Duration

It is advisable to use lemongrass in moderate amounts. When taken in large quantities, it causes side effects that include stomach ache and frequent urination. Do not consume food containing lemongrass in more significant amounts, such as teas or supplements. 

Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) comes in several forms. It can be consumed for its health benefits. It can be used in these forms: fresh leaves, powder, capsules, essential oil, and tea. Here are the ways to use them:

1. Tea

Lemongrass tea is one of the most common ways to enjoy the benefits of this herb. It is known for its soothing properties, aiding digestion, and reducing stress. The following are the steps to prepare lemongrass tea:

• Take 1-2 stalks of fresh lemongrass leaves or 1-2 teaspoons of dried lemongrass.
• Boil the leaves in one cup of water for 5-10 minutes.
• Strain and enjoy it warm. You can also add honey or lemon to enhance its flavor.
• Consume it once or twice a day.

2. Powder

Add lemongrass powder to smoothies, juices, or other drinks. It will boost the flavor and provide health benefits. The following are the steps to use lemongrass powder:

• Take 1-3 grams of lemongrass powder.
• Mix it with a glass of warm water, juice, or any drink.
• Consume it once daily for better results.

3. Capsule

Lemongrass capsules provide a quick way to enjoy this herb. They are great for those who don't want to use fresh or powdered forms. These capsules are to be taken with water, post-meal, and as instructed by the recommended dosage on the label.

4. Essential Oil

Lemongrass essential oil has many uses. They include aromatherapy and topical application. The following are the steps to use it:

• Add a few drops of lemongrass essential oil to a diffuser for aromatherapy.
• For topical use; Mix a few drops with a carrier oil, like coconut or almond oil. Apply it to the skin for massage or to relieve muscle pain.
• Always perform a patch test before topical use.

5. Fresh Lemongrass

Fresh lemongrass can be used in cooking, adding a citrusy flavour to soups, curries, and stews. The following are the steps to use fresh lemongrass:

• Take 1-2 stalks of fresh lemongrass.
• Cut off the root and outer leaves. Use the softer inner stalk for cooking.
• Add it to your dish for flavour, and remove the stalk before serving.

Using lemongrass in these forms lets you enjoy its full benefits. It can improve digestion, relieve stress, and promote relaxation.

The dosage of lemongrass depends on the form in which it is consumed and the purpose of its use. Here are the general recommendations for different forms of lemongrass:

Lemongrass Tea

Drink 1-2 cups of lemongrass tea daily for good health and digestion. Use 1-2 teaspoons of dried lemongrass or 1-2 fresh stalks to prepare the tea.

Lemongrass Powder

Mix 1-3 grams of lemongrass powder with warm water or other drinks for internal use. It is best to take this once daily, in the morning. This gives the best results.

Lemongrass Capsules

Lemongrass capsules usually take 300-500 mg daily, depending on the product. Follow the label's instructions. For advice, consult a healthcare professional.

Lemongrass Essential Oil

For topical use, dilute lemongrass essential oil in a carrier oil. Use 3-5 drops per teaspoon of carrier oil. For aromatherapy, use 2-3 drops in a diffuser.

Always consult a doctor to set the correct dose for your health.

Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) has health benefits. But, it can interact with some medications and cause side effects. Being aware of these interactions is essential, especially if you are on prescribed medication. Here are some possible interactions based on recent medical research:

1. Antihypertensive Medications

Lemongrass can lower blood pressure. It has diuretic properties. It may enhance antihypertensive medications taken together. This could cause low blood pressure (hypotension). If you take high blood pressure meds, consult your doctor before eating a lot of lemongrass.

2. Antidiabetic Medications

Lemongrass may lower blood sugar. It can interact with antidiabetic drugs, like insulin and oral meds. This combination may cause blood sugar levels to drop too low, leading to hypoglycemia. When using lemongrass with diabetes meds, monitor blood sugar levels.

3. Anticoagulants and Blood Thinners

Lemongrass thins the blood. It may increase bleeding risks with anticoagulants and antiplatelets. These include warfarin, aspirin, and clopidogrel. Individuals on blood thinners should avoid high doses of lemongrass.

4. Diuretics

Lemongrass is a natural diuretic. Using it with prescribed diuretics may cause excessive fluid loss, dehydration, or imbalances in potassium and sodium. 

• Lemongrass has multiple health benefits, including aiding digestion, reducing stress, and improving skin health.
• It can interact with medications like blood thinners, antidiabetics, and antihypertensives.
• Lemongrass tea is caffeine-free and can help with relaxation and insomnia.
• Due to potential risks, Lemongrass should be used in moderation, especially during pregnancy.

Conclusion

In conclusion, lemongrass is a multipurpose herb valued for both its medicinal and culinary uses. Rich in essential oils and bioactive compounds, it offers antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial benefits that support overall health. From promoting better digestion and gut health to aiding in oral care and stress relief, lemongrass is a natural remedy with wide-ranging applications. Whether used as tea, oil, or in cooking, lemongrass is a refreshing and therapeutic addition to a healthy lifestyle, making it a popular choice in both traditional and modern wellness practices.