The Health Benefits of Lemongrass

Lemongrass is a perennial plant characterized by slender, long leaves. It is found mostly in Asian countries. As the name implies, lemongrass shares the same smell as that of the lemon fruit, but features a milder and sweeter taste. Lemongrass also called fever grass is an herbal plant commonly used in Asian cooking due to its delicious smell and powerful flavor.

Nutrition wise, lemongrass is an excellent source of Vitamin A and Vitamin C. In addition, it contains folic acid, magnesium, zinc, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, iron, calcium, and copper. Lastly, lemongrass contains traces of B vitamins.

Apart from its culinary applications, lemongrass is also used as complementary or alternative remedy for a wide range of conditions.

Digestive Aid

Lemongrass is an excellent digestive aid. Its antiseptic properties kill harmful bacteria and parasites that can invade the digestive tract that may take the place of beneficial bacteria found in the colon.

This positive effect of lemongrass helps in treating common digestive ailments such as constipation, indigestion, heartburn, bloating, vomiting, abdominal cramps, stomach pains, and flatulence. In addition, it features antimicrobial properties that help relieve the pain from gastroenteritis.

Drink lemongrass tea daily for best results. Never let children drink lemongrass tea infusions.

Regulates Cholesterol Levels

Lemongrass boasts anti-cholesterol qualities that significantly reduce the absorption rate of cholesterol along the intestinal tract. Additionally, lemongrass assists in the oxidative process of bad cholesterol in the bloodstream, thus effectively stopping the accumulation of plaque along blood vessel walls.

According to research, people with high cholesterol levels who used 140mg capsules of lemongrass supplement observed significant reduction in overall cholesterol levels. The high potassium concentration of lemongrass helps in normalizing blood pressure too.

Detoxification and Cleansing Properties

Regular intake of lemongrass helps in cleansing and detoxifying the entire body. It gas diuretic effects which helps in the efficient removal of toxins, uric acid, and bad cholesterol from the bloodstream resulting in increased urinary frequency. Normal urinary patterns help in kidney cleansing.

The cleansing properties of lemongrass tea purify various organs including the kidneys, bladder, liver, and pancreas. It plays a crucial role in improving blood circulation.

Treats Colds and Flu

Lemongrass feature antibacterial and antifungal properties that help the body to adapt to bouts of cough, fever, colds, and flu symptoms. It is rich in Vitamin C, thus it also helps in boosting the immune system and reduces risk of infection.

Lemongrass is powerful in breaking down mucus and phlegm which may have built up through the course of colds or flu. Drinking lemongrass tea is highly beneficial among those suffering from bronchitis and asthma.

Cancer Fighting Qualities

Lemongrass helps in fighting cancer calls. A component in lemongrass called citral stimulates apoptosis- death of cancer cells without having adverse effects on health cells. Based on research, lemongrass is being used among patients who are undergoing chemotherapy and radiation therapy.

In a study published in 2008, citral found in lemongrass slows down the growth of breast cancer cells.

Lemongrass is teeming with antioxidants that help in lowering the risk of cancer by killing off free radicals.

Arthritis Relief

The anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties of lemongrass makes it the best remedy for those suffering from debilitating conditions such as arthritis, rheumatism, osteoarthritis, gout, and other conditions that involve the joints.  Its anti-inflammatory properties help in slowing down the activity of enzymes that cause pain and inflammation in joints.

Best for Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding mothers are recommended to drink lemongrass-infused drinks. This powerful herb contains galatctogogue properties that improves milk production, The antimicrobial properties of lemongrass helps in keeping the baby healthy by keeping them free from infections as they grow.

Treatment for Depression

Lemongrass also has antidepressant characteristics, thus making it an excellent drink for those suffering from depression. The natural compounds found in lemongrass facilitate the release of serotonin in the bloodstream. Lemongrass drinks are mood enhancers, and due to increased production of serotonin, you can expect enhanced mood, increased confidence, and improvement in mental health as a result of drinking lemongrass tea daily.

Lemongrass is enriched with citronella, a chemical compound popular for its calming effects on both body and mind. It is also an excellent sleeping aid!

Neutralizes Body Odor

Lemongrass oil in diluted form is an excellent deodorant too. According to studies, lemongrass oil is found to be more effective than traditional deodorants in beauty counters.

Citral, the main chemical compound present in lemongrass, has aromatic qualities that masks bad odor effectively. It boast antimicrobial properties that control profuse sweating while slowing down the growth of microorganisms that cause unpleasant body odor.

Skin Health

Lemongrass is a great skincare remedy as it helps in treating symptoms associated with skin issues including large pores to fungal infections. The antibacterial, antiseptic, and antifungal benefits of lemongrass effectively limit bacterial growth on the skin. It also features astringent qualities making it an excellent remedy to use in minimizing pores. It also limits the secretion of oils resulting in firm and smooth skin.

Related Posts
Total
0
Share