This post will provide information on "What are the health benefits of lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus)?" as well as provide answers to questions like: What does lemon grass cure? Can you drink lemongrass tea everyday? What are the benefits of drinking lemon grass tea? Is lemongrass good for kidneys?
Lemongrass is an herb with a distinct citrusy flavor and aroma. Its scientific name is Cymbopogon citratus and it belongs to the grass family of Poaceae. It is a tall, perennial grass native to India and tropical regions of Asia and is alternatively known as Cymbopogon, barbed wire grass, or even fever grass. The leaves and the oil are used to make medicine. The plant has long leaves that are similar to those of seagrasses. While an estimated 55 species of lemongrass exist, only the East Indian and West Indian varieties are suitable for use in cooking. Lemongrass is commonly taken orally, applied directly to the skin, or inhaled as aromatherapy for many different conditions.
Apart from folk medicines, lemongrass is commonly used in Asian cuisines, especially those of Vietnam, Thailand, and Malaysia;
- It is used for adding flavor to beverages such as teas, curries, and soups
- It is also found extensively in the preparation of pudding, meat products, candies, and baked goods
- In manufacturing, lemongrass is used as a fragrance in deodorants, soaps, and cosmetics. Lemongrass is also used in making vitamin A and natural citral
- Relieving anxiety
- Lowering cholesterol
- Preventing infection
- Boosting oral health
- Relieving pain
- Boosting red blood cell levels
- Relieving bloating
Lemongrass is likely safe for most people when consumed in typical amounts found in food However, there may be some concerns when using it for medicinal purposes;
- Lemongrass can cause skin irritation
- Consuming high amounts of lemongrass can cause dizziness, drowsiness, dry mouth, excess urination, and increased appetite
- Lemongrass essential oil in high amounts can damage liver and stomach mucous membranes
- According to Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, and excessive intake of lemongrass tea may also affect kidney function
- The medical center also cautions that pregnant women should avoid lemongrass because certain ingredients in lemongrass caused birth defects in rats when consumed in large amounts
- People undergoing chemotherapy should avoid lemongrass because it may interfere with the actions of some chemotherapeutic agents