Lemongrass also known as citronella is a very important plant in folk Ayurveda. It’s a tall and stalky plant that has been used for thousands of years as a medicinal drink to boost immunity and strength in the form of tea. It tastes citrusy and has a fresh, lemony scent. It is frequently used in Thai cookery and as a bug repellent. In aromatherapy, lemongrass essential oil is used to freshen the air, lessen stress, and improve mood.
Additionally, lemongrass is also used as a folk treatment to improve ease discomfort and encourage sleep. Tea is one of the most common ways to consume lemongrass. Yes, there are many health benefits of lemongrass, let’s check them out along with nutrition, medicinal uses and facts.
Lemongrass Nutrients: Nutritional Value Of Lemongrass
Nutrient | Amount/100 g |
Carbohydrates | 25.3 g |
Proteins | 1.82 g |
Fats | 0.49 g |
Energy | 99 kcal |
Iron | 8.17 mg |
Calcium | 65 mg |
Sodium | 6 mg |
Potassium | 723 mg |
Phosphorus | 101 mg |
Magnesium | 60 mg |
Manganese | 5.22 mg |
Copper | 0.266 mg |
Zinc | 2.23 mg |
Selenium | 0.7 µg |
Vitamin A | 6 IU |
Vitamin B1 (Thiamine) | 0.065 mg |
Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin) | 0.135 mg |
Vitamin B3 (Niacin) | 1.1 mg |
Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic acid) | 0.05 mg |
Vitamin B6 | 0.08 mg |
Vitamin B9 (Folate) | 75 µg |
Vitamin C | 2.6 mg |
This table shows the nutritional value of lemongrass (source )
Therapeutic and Medicinal Uses Of Lemongrass
Antioxidant Properties Make It Useful In Preventing Coronary Artery Cell Dysfunction
A study in the Journal of Agriculture and Food Chemistry found that lemongrass includes a number of antioxidants that can help your body scavenge disease-causing free radicals. Chlorogenic acid, isoorientin, and swertiajaponin are noteworthy antioxidants. These antioxidants may aid in preventing coronary artery cell dysfunction (source)
Lemongrass Is Used As A Medicine To Improve Digestion
The go-to alternative treatment for upset stomach, stomach cramps, and other digestive issues is a cup of lemongrass tea. Lemongrass may also be useful against stomach ulcers, according to a 2012 mouse study that was published by the National Institutes of Health Reliable Source.
According to the study, the essential oil from lemongrass leaves can help shield the stomach lining from harm caused by aspirin and alcohol. Gastric ulcers are frequently brought on by frequent aspirin use. (source )
Used To Control Systolic Blood Pressure
In observational research conducted in 2012, 72 male volunteers were given either green tea or lemongrass tea to sip. The systolic blood pressure of those who drank the lemongrass tea moderately decreased, whereas the diastolic blood pressure slightly rose. Additionally, their heart rates were much lower. (source )
Prevent Hears From Dandruff
Dandruff. Early study indicates that some people see a reduction in dandruff when using a lemongrass oil solution on their hair.
Also Read: Manjistha Medicinal Uses, Manjishtha Health Benefits, Nutrition
Health Benefits Of Using Lemon Grass
Health Benefits Of Lemon Grass: May Help In Treating Heart Diseases
The effectiveness of lemongrass as a hypoglycaemic (reducing blood sugar level) and hypolipidemic (lowering lipid in the blood) drug to lower the risk of obesity and hypertension has been investigated in a number of research. 3 It was discovered to lessen excessive amounts of cholesterol in people, demonstrating heart-protective effects. It was also discovered to assist overweight patients in losing extra weight. 5 However, speak with your healthcare practitioner and adhere to their recommendations if you have any cardiac issues or want to lose weight.(source )
Lemon May Grass Help In Treating Liver Disease
The liver activity of lemongrass leaf extract was examined. It was discovered to be beneficial for treating liver illnesses or diseases. 4 However, utilizing any herb without first talking to a doctor can harm your liver if you have a liver condition. Therefore, before using lemongrass, consult your healthcare physician.
Despite research demonstrating the advantages of lemongrass in a number of situations (source )
How Lemon Grass Helps In Treating Diarrhea
To treat diarrhea, use a boiled, concentrated solution of lemongrass leaf stem. By defending the stomach linings, lemongrass tea may be used to treat indigestion, stomach pain, and gastric ulcers. Before using lemongrass to treat your symptoms if you have gastrointestinal issues, talk to your doctor. Without seeing a doctor, using natural medicines can make things worse.( source )
Benefits Of Lemon Grass Helps In Reducing Inflammation
One of the main contributors to significant health issues is tissue inflammation. It has been discovered to be connected to conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, cancer, neurological disorders, and cardiovascular (heart and blood vessel) ailments. Lemongrass is said to contain polyphenols that may have anti-inflammatory effects and reduce inflammation, according to several researches. (source )
Precautions You Should Take Before Using Lemon Grass
Lemongrass should be avoided during pregnancy since it has the potential of causing menstruation to begin. 5 A study on animals was also discovered to have an impact on the embryo. Lemongrass should therefore not be consumed while pregnant or nursing. 6
Additionally, before using lemongrass to treat any medical concerns, speak with your doctor about any potential side effects and lemongrass’s permitted uses.
Side Effects Of Using Lemon Grass
Lemongrass is typically regarded as safe for cooking, however, if ingested in large quantities, it might have negative consequences including
- Mouth ache
- Tiredness
- Dizziness
- Often urinating
- Higher appetite
- Allergic symptoms include hives and itching.
Consult your doctor about any potential adverse effects before to utilizing lemongrass or other herbs for their health advantages. You’ll be better able to make decisions thanks to this.
These are Lemongrass health benefits. Check out health articles on Ayurvedic Herbs and their importance in our exclusive section – Healthy Herbs.