Lemon grass, scientifically known as the Cymbopogon citratus and popularly named lemon grass or citronella, is a tall grass-like plant commonly used in Southeast Asian cooking. The bulbs and lower stalk of the plant are used to add teas, marinades, curries, and broths and have a fresh, clean, and lemony scent as a flavoring agent.
Besides, adding it as a flavoring agent to various foods, the essential oil of the lemon grass has some health benefits and is used for medicinal purposes, some of which are supported by scientific benefits.
So let’s dive into the article below to find out the benefits and side effects of the lemongrass plant.
Benefits of the lemongrass plant
As we discussed that the lemongrass plant has various health benefits, so it can be taken by the mouth, inhaled as an aromatherapy treatment, or can be rubbed on the skin if there are some skin diseases when used as medicine. It also can be taken orally, to deal with stomach discomfort and other gastrointestinal issues including cramps and vomiting.
The essential oil in lemongrass bears anti-hyperlipidemic and anti-hypercholesterolemic properties that support healthy cholesterol levels. Click To TweetHelps to lower cholesterol
The essential oil in lemongrass bears anti-hyperlipidemic and anti-hypercholesterolemic properties that support healthy cholesterol levels.
The lemongrass helps in assisting sustaining healthy levels of triglycerides and reduces LDL or bad cholesterol which may help in the prevention of the accumulation of lipids in the blood vessels and promote an unobstructed flow of blood in the arteries, thus preventing various cardiac disorders like atherosclerosis.
Helps in the detoxification of the body
As per the 2003 animal study, lemongrass helps in the cleansing and flushing of harmful toxic wastes from the body, as a result of its diuretic properties.
Detoxification of the body may help in the regulation of various organs of the body, including the liver and kidneys. Besides, it also helps to lower the levels of uric acid in the body. The best possible diuretic effect of the lemongrass helps in increasing the quantity and frequency of urination, which detoxifies the body and helps in maintaining digestive health.
Helps to treat stomach disorders
As per different Studies, the lemongrass contains numerous essential oil that has potentially anti-microbial and anti-bacterial properties which help in fighting the infections caused by different pathogens like Helicobacter pylori and Escherichia coli.
So lemongrass is beneficial in reducing inflammation and various gastrointestinal disorders. it is also beneficiary for improving digestion and thus if you suffering from gastric ulcers, constipation, ulcerative colitis, diarrhea, nausea, and stomach ache, it can help you to treat that diseases.
It helps to treat infections
Lemongrass often works as an antiseptic and thus it is used to treat various infections like ringworm, sores, Athlete’s Foot, scabies, and urinary tract infections (UTI) as it contains antimicrobial and anti-fungal properties.
Different studies have shown that the lemongrass exerts healing effects on different dermatological infections, such as yeast infections, by inhibiting the growth of pathogens. Another study also demonstrated the efficacy of lemongrass over thyme, patchouli, and cedarwood oil in the treatment of various diseases such as oral or vaginal candidiasis.
So the lemongrass can be used to treat different infections.
The lemongrass is also very beneficial in managing type -2 diabetes. Click To TweetHeavily used in aromatherapy
Lemongrass consists of various beneficial essential oils and compounds that include neroli, citronellol, myrcene, dipentene, geraniol, and methyl heptane. So due to its content and therapeutic effects lemongrass oil is extensively used in aromatherapy which helps in revitalizing the body.
The lemongrass oil possesses a lot of natural astringent and toning qualities that help in stimulating blood circulation and tone up the dermal tissues and it also has some cooling effect is also beneficial for the body during hot weather and promotes the revival of both the mind and soul.
So It is heavily used in therapeutic baths for calming the nerves and alleviating stress, fatigue, and anxiety.
Helps to manage type 2 diabetes
An animal study published in the Indian Journal of Pharmacology in 2011 demonstrates that the lemongrass contains citral that may help in maintaining optimum levels of insulin and improve the tolerance of glucose in the body. So lemongrass is also very beneficial in managing type -2 diabetes. However, it is not reliable that much and more research needs to be conducted on the human population to truly understand the effects.
Lemongrass improves immunity
The extracts of lemongrass have a beneficial effect on the inflammatory actions of cytokines, which are the signaling molecules through which the cells communicate with each other and respond to the body.
Various studies have shown that the extract of these lemongrass exerts anti-inflammatory action. The main constituent of the lemongrass is citral, which may be the cause of its inhibitory effect on cytokine production.
Producing a lot of cytokines helps to increase the immunity of a person. So no doubt, if a person is taking lemongrass daily, it helps him to fight diseases and helps to stay disease-free.
A remedy for a respiratory disorder
Lemongrass can also be used as a remedy for respiratory disorders. So, this ornamental flavoury herb is widely used in Ayurvedic medicine due to its healing effects in treating cough and cold.
Along with other beneficial components, the lemongrass also contains vitamin C in it which helps in providing relief from nasal blockages, flu, and other respiratory disorders such as bronchial asthma.
Helps to reduce fever
Lemongrass is a febrifuge. It is popularly known as fever grass for its beneficial effects in lowering fever. The possible antipyretic and diaphoretic effect of the lemongrass is extensively used in Ayurvedic medicine for curing fever by inducing sweating.
Used heavily in skincare
Lemongrass contains antiseptic qualities and astringent in it. So it is a great treasure that can be used as a skin tonic and acts as an effective cleanser for oily and acne-prone skin.
It can also help in strengthening the skin tissues and toning up the pores along with sterilizing them. However, proper care should be taken while using lemongrass products, as the undiluted application might lead to dermal irritation in some cases.
Side effects of lemongrass
The lemongrass and its derivatives are generally safe to use. However, the essential oil of the lemongrass is not recommended to use directly. The direct use of the essential oil may cause an allergic reaction. Such as contact dermatitis. Besides, the topical use or ingestion of concentrated essential oils is not recommended. So the essential oil should always be kept out of the children.
Looking at the side effects of lemongrass, It is strongly recommended to consult a health professional before using lemongrass oil, especially during the pregnancy when trying to conceive, breastfeeding, and during the course of any ongoing medical treatments and consultations.
Conclusion
As you read this far, you might have a proper idea of the benefits and side effects of lemongrass.
You might get to know that the Lemongrass plant is not just an ornamental plant that has a fresh, lemony scent and flavor. Lemongrass also is a delicious beverage. Besides, it has certain health benefits that compel you to add it to your wishlist of gardening.
Yes, there are certain side effects of lemongrass. But when it is used cautiously, it can prove extremely valuable in providing a range of medicinal relief. So, add a refreshing and healthy aroma to your health and life with lemongrass.
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