Ever tried lemongrass? This fragrant grass is a popular ingredient in Asian cuisine and is said to have many health benefits. Keep reading to learn more about lemongrass and its uses, including lemongrass tea benefits and oil preparations. You might just decide to add this herb to your next dish!
What is it?
Lemongrass is a grass plant, including other notable plants such as wheat and rice. The scientific name for lemongrass is Cymbopogon citratus. Lemongrass grows best in tropical climates and can be found in many Asian dishes.
It has a strong citrus flavor and is often used as a flavoring agent or aromatic ingredient. In addition to cooking, lemongrass has many medicinal properties and is often used in herbal teas and home remedies.
Some of the most common uses for lemongrass include treating anxiety, improving digestion, relieving muscle pain, and reducing fever. Lemongrass is safe for most people to consume, but it should be used in moderation. High doses of lemongrass can cause vomiting and diarrhea.
Health Benefits of Lemongrass:
There are many purported benefits of lemongrass tea. Some of the most well-known include:
1. Antioxidant properties:
Lemongrass tea has antioxidant properties, which make it effective in scavenging harmful toxins and inhibiting lipid oxidation.
This means that lemongrass tea can protect your cells against damage, reducing your risk of age-related health conditions such as cancer, heart disease and dementia.
Additionally, the antioxidants in lemongrass tea may help improve skin complexion and reduce the signs of aging.
2. Antimicrobial properties:
Lemongrass tea is a popular herbal beverage enjoyed for its refreshing citrus flavor. But this fragrant tea may also offer some health benefits, thanks to its antimicrobial properties.
A 2012 study published by the National Institutes of Health found that lemongrass essential oil effectively against Streptococcus mutans bacteria, the primary culprit behind tooth decay.
Further research has shown that lemongrass oil and silver ions may work together against various bacteria and fungi.
While more research is needed to confirm these benefits, lemongrass tea may be a worthwhile addition to your oral care routine.
3. Anti-inflammatory properties:
Inflammation is a response by the body’s immune system to protect against infection or injury. However, when inflammation becomes chronic, it can contribute to several health problems, including heart disease and stroke.
Some studies have suggested that lemongrass may help to reduce inflammation. The Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center states that two of the main compounds in lemongrass, citral and geranial, are thought to have anti-inflammatory properties.
These compounds are said to inhibit the release of certain markers that trigger inflammation in the body. While more research is needed to confirm these effects, lemongrass may offer a natural option for reducing inflammation.
4. It may reduce cancer risk:
In addition to its anti-inflammatory properties, lemongrass may help reduce your risk of cancer. Studies have found that citral, a compound present in lemongrass, induced cell death in human breast cancer cells.
The study’s authors concluded that citral might be a potential candidate for breast cancer treatment. While more research is needed to confirm these effects, lemongrass may help reduce your cancer risk.
5. Lemon grass helps control obesity:
Lemongrass may help to fight obesity by inhibiting the growth of fat cells. The research found that citral, a compound in lemongrass, reduced the proliferation of adipocytes or fat cells.
Additionally, the study’s authors found that citral increased adiponectin levels, a hormone that helps regulate metabolism.
While more research is needed, these findings suggest that lemongrass may help to fight obesity by inhibiting the growth of fat cells and regulating metabolism.
6. It may help promote healthy digestion:
Some scientific evidence supports the use of lemongrass to promote healthy digestion. One study found that taking a supplement containing lemongrass oil effectively reduced bloating, gas, and abdominal pain in adults with functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs).
Additionally, another study found that drinking lemonade made with Lemongrass powder helped to reduce the severity of symptoms in people with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). While more research is needed to confirm these effects, lemongrass may help to promote healthy digestion.
7. It may act as a natural diuretic:
A diuretic is a substance that helps the body to produce more urine and, as such, can help to flush out toxins and waste products from the body.
Lemongrass may also act as a diuretic, helping to promote urine production and flush out toxins from the body. A study published in 2001 found that an extract of lemongrass effectively increased urine output and reduced potassium levels in rats.
While more research is needed to confirm these effects in humans, lemongrass may help to promote healthy kidney function.
8. It may help reduce high systolic blood pressure:
High systolic blood pressure is a major risk factor for heart disease and stroke. Lemongrass may help to reduce high systolic blood pressure, according to a study published in 2010. T
he study found that drinking lemonade made with Lemongrass powder helped to reduce systolic blood pressure in people with hypertension.
Lemongrass oil has been shown in some studies to help normalize blood pressure. It does this by relaxing the smooth muscles of the walls of the arteries and by inhibiting the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE).
Additionally, lemongrass oil has a calming effect on the mind that helps reduce stress levels, another known contributor to high blood pressure.
9. Help in the prevention of gastric ulcers or the treatment of nausea:
Gastric ulcers happen when the stomach lining gets damaged. This can be caused by several things, including a poor diet, stress, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption.
Lemongrass can help protect the stomach lining by increasing mucus production and keeping the pH levels balanced. Additionally, lemongrass Oil has decreased inflammation and relieves pain associated with gastric ulcers.
Nausea can be caused by many different things, including pregnancy, motion sickness, and certain medications. Lemongrass oil is effective in relieving nausea in several studies.
One study found that lemongrass oil was just as effective as metoclopramide medication in relieving nausea and vomiting in pregnant women. Another study found that inhaling lemongrass oil effectively reduced symptoms of motion sickness.
While more research is needed to confirm the effects of lemongrass on gastric ulcers and nausea, these findings suggest that lemongrass may help to prevent gastric ulcers or relieve nausea.
10. It may help relieve stress and anxiety:
Lemongrass oil has a refreshing, uplifting, and calming effect on the mind and body. It is often used in aromatherapy to help relieve stress and anxiety. Lemongrass oil can also help treat depression, fatigue, and tension headaches.
Inhaling lemongrass oil or applying it topically to the skin can help reduce anxiety and stress symptoms. Lemongrass oil is also said to boost energy levels and improve circulation. There is some scientific evidence to support these claims.
A study published in Frontiers in Pharmacology found that inhaling lemongrass essential oil decreased rat anxiety levels. Another study found that massage with lemongrass oil helped to reduce stress and improve circulation in people with type 2 diabetes.
While more research is needed to confirm the effects of lemongrass on stress and anxiety, these findings suggest that lemongrass may help to relieve stress and anxiety.
Other uses:
Helps fight dandruff:
Lemongrass oil is a natural antiseptic that can help fight bacteria and fungus on the scalp. It also has a refreshing, lemony aroma that can help to stimulate hair growth. Additionally, lemongrass oil helps to balance the scalp’s pH, which can help reduce inflammation and dandruff.
Used as insect repellent:
Lemongrass is a popular ingredient in many insect repellents because it offers a safe and natural way to keep bugs at bay. The lemony smell of lemongrass is caused by citronella, which is also used in commercial mosquito repellents. Lemongrass essential oil can help repel mosquitos, flies, and other pests when used as an insecticide.
How to use lemongrass?
Lemon grass is used in both oral and topical methods. For oral use, lemon grass can be made into a tea or infusion and taken internally for digestive complaints, nausea, and coughing.
Tea recipe using fresh lemongrass leaves
Ingredients:
- 1 stalk of lemon grass, chopped
- 2 cups of water
- Honey or sugar to taste (optional)
Directions:
- Heat the water in a pot on the stove.
- Add the lemon grass and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes.
- Strain and sweeten with honey or sugar, if desired. Enjoy!
Lemongrass tea recipe using dried leaves
Ingredients:
- 1 teaspoon of dried lemon grass leaves
- 1 cup boiling water
- Honey or sugar (optional)
Directions:
- Put the dried lemon grass leaves in a cup.
- Boil water and pour it over the leaves.
- Cover the cup and let it steep for 10 minutes.
- Strain the tea and sweeten it with honey or sugar, if desired. Enjoy!
Lemon grass for oral thrush
Lemongrass is a natural antifungal and antibacterial agent, effectively treating oral thrush.
- Combine 1 tablespoon of lemongrass tea with 1 cup of water.
- Swish the mixture in your mouth for 5 minutes, then spit it out.
- Do this 2-3 times a day until the yeast infection clears up.
- You can also add lemongrass oil to your toothpaste or gargle with it directly to get relief from oral thrush symptoms.
Lemongrass oil
Lemongrass oil can be used topically for massage in a diffuser or vaporizer, diluted in a carrier oil and applied to the skin. Lemon grass oil is packed with antioxidants and has a fresh, zesty scent that can enliven any recipe.
Here’s how to make your lemongrass oil at home:
1. Start by washing a lemon grass stalk under running water. Then, cut off the bottom of the stalk and peel away any dried or browned leaves. Finely chop the lemon grass until you have about 2 tablespoons worth.
2. Next, add the chopped lemon grass to a glass jar or bottle along with 1/4 cup of olive oil or sweet almond oil. Screw on the lid and shake well to combine.
3. Let the mixture sit for 10 days, shaking it once or twice a day. After 10 days, strain the mixture through a coffee filter or cheesecloth into a clean glass jar or bottle.
4. Your lemon grass oil is now ready to use! Lemongrass oil can be used in a diffuser or diluted with a carrier oil and applied to the skin. You can massage it into your skin, add a few drops to your diffuser or vaporizer, or use it in recipes.
5. Store your lemongrass oil in a cool, dark place, and it will last for up to 6 months.
Natural cleaning solution with lemon grass oil
Making your natural cleaning solutions is a great way to save money and avoid using s harsh chemicals in your home. Lemon grass oil is a great option for making a natural cleaning solution, as it has antibacterial and antiseptic properties. To make a lemon grass cleaning solution, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup white vinegar
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 20 drops of lemon grass oil
Simply combine all the ingredients in a spray bottle and shake well before each use. This solution can be used on most surfaces around your home, including countertops, floors, bathrooms and kitchens.
Be sure to test the solution on an inconspicuous area before using, as some surfaces may be sensitive to vinegar or lemon juice.
Homemade cosmetics like soaps and shampoos
To make your homemade cosmetics like soaps and shampoos, you’ll need a few simple ingredients. Here’s a quick tutorial on how to do it:
1. Start by gathering your supplies. For soaps, you’ll need soapmaking tools, base oils, essential oils, and water. For shampoos, you’ll need shampoo-making tools, base oils, essential oils, herbs or botanicals (optional), and water.
2. Choose your soap or shampoo recipe. There are many recipes available online for both soaps and shampoos. You can also find recipes in soapmaking or shampoo-making books.
3. Melt the base oils in a double boiler or crockpot.
4. Add the essential oils and mix well.
5. Pour the mixture into soap molds or shampoo bottles and let cool.
6. Once the soaps or shampoos have cooled, they’re ready to use! Store them in a cool, dark place; they should last for several months.
Possible side effects and risks
Lemongrass is a versatile and flavorful herb used in cooking for centuries. Though it is generally considered safe to use in food amounts, some potential side effects are associated with lemongrass use. These include
- Dizziness,
- Increased hunger,
- Dry mouth,
- Increased urination
- Tiredness
- Rash
- Itching
- Difficulty breathing
- Rapid heart rate
While these side effects are generally mild, they can be more bothersome for some people than others. Therefore, it is important to be aware of them before using lemongrass. If these side effects occur, discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional.
Pregnant or breastfeeding women should avoid using lemongrass oil, as it may stimulate uterine contractions. Lemongrass seems to be able to start menstrual flow, so there is a concern that it might cause a miscarriage.
In addition, lemongrass oil is made up of compounds that can cross the placenta and enter the bloodstream of the developing fetus. For these reasons, it is best to avoid lemongrass during pregnancy.
Conclusion:
Lemongrass is a versatile and flavorful herb with many culinary and health applications. It can be used to make teas, soups, curries, and essential oils. Lemongrass oil is also a popular ingredient in cosmetics and cleaning solutions. Though lemongrass is generally considered safe, some potential side effects are associated with its use. Therefore, it is important to be aware of these before using lemongrass. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should avoid using lemongrass essential oil. If any side effects occur, discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional.
FAQs
What are the potential health benefits of drinking lemongrass tea?
Lemongrass tea’s benefits are many because it contains essential nutrients like vitamins A, B, and C, as well as minerals like potassium, calcium, and magnesium. This herbal tea also has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antifungal properties. Lemongrass tea can boost the immune system, aid in digestion, and help to prevent UTIs.
Is green tea more beneficial than lemongrass tea?
There is no definitive answer to this question, as the benefits of each tea vary depending on the person. Some people may find that green tea is more beneficial for them, while others may find lemongrass tea to be more beneficial. It is important to experiment with different teas to see which one works best for you.
Does lemongrass have anti-inflammatory effects?
Yes, lemongrass does have anti-inflammatory effects. This is due to the presence of compounds like citral and limonene in lemongrass. These anti-inflammatory benefits can help to reduce swelling and pain in the body.
How to use lemongrass in natural remedies?
There are many ways to use lemongrass in natural remedies. Lemongrass can be made into a tea, used in aromatherapy, or added to lotions and potions. It is important to speak with a healthcare professional before using lemongrass in any remedy as it may interact with certain medications.
Which natural remedy can I use for cold and flu?
There are many different natural remedies that can be used for cold and flu. Some people find that lemongrass tea helps to reduce symptoms like congestion and sore throat. Other people may find that ginger or garlic are more effective for them. It is important to experiment with different remedies to see which one works best for you.
