Health Benefits of Lemongrass
Rose May Pimentel in Health
Aug 10, 2021 • 3 min Read
Lemongrass, also known as citronella, or tanglad in Tagalog, contains various nutrients. It has anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, and anti-microbial properties with fresh, lemony aroma, and citrus flavor.
One of the best, common and simplest way of consuming lemongrass is in tea. It is also an essential ingredient in Asian cuisine.
Here are some of the amazing benefits of lemongrass, from Organic Facts:
1. May Detoxify the Body
According to an animal study, lemongrass may help in cleansing and flushing harmful toxic wastes from the body as a result of its diuretic properties. Detoxification may help in the regulation of various organs of the body, including liver and kidneys, while possibly helping to lower the levels of uric acid. The possible diuretic effect of the herb helps in increasing the quantity and frequency of urination that aids in maintaining digestive health and detoxifying the body.
2. May Aid in Relieving Stomach Disorders
Lemongrass is beneficial in reducing inflammation and gastrointestinal disorders. It may also be helpful in improving digestion and offers relief from gastric ulcers, constipation, ulcerative colitis, diarrhea, nausea, and stomachache.
3. May Relieve Insomnia
Lemongrass tea is considered to be helpful in calming muscles and nerves that may aid in promoting sleep. Research proved that lemongrass tea has sedative properties that help in increasing the duration of sleep.
4. May Act as Remedy for Respiratory Disorders
Lemongrass is widely used in Ayurvedic medicine for its healing effects in treating cough and cold. It contains vitamin C that may provide relief from nasal blockages, flu, and other respiratory disorders.
5. May Reduce Fever
Lemongrass is a febrifuge and also known as the ‘fever grass’ due to its beneficial effects in lowering fever. The possible antipyretic and diaphoretic effect is extensively used in Ayurvedic medicine for curing fever by inducing sweating.
6. May Reduce Aches
A 2018 study suggested that lemongrass and several of its products such as oil are known to be effective against headaches and body aches with lesser side effects as opposed to synthetic drugs. Another study notes the effective use of lemongrass essential oil against rheumatism, muscle spasms, and cramps.
7. May Improve Skin Care
Lemongrass has been treasured as a skin tonic and makes an effective cleanser for oily or acne-prone skin due to its astringent and antiseptic qualities. It helps in strengthening the skin tissues and toning up the pores while sterilizing them.
8. Can be Used in Aromatherapy
Lemongrass consists of beneficial essential oils and compounds. The oil is extensively used in aromatherapy for its therapeutic effects that help in revitalizing the body. It has cooling effect that is beneficial to the body during hot weather. This oil possesses natural astringent and toning qualities that help stimulate blood circulation and tone up the dermal tissues. It is also used in baths to calm the nerves and alleviate stress, fatigue, and anxiety.
9. Can Act as an Insect Repellent
Lemongrass is used as a natural insect repellent and helps in preventing the occurrence of insect-borne diseases such as malaria, dengue, and possibly Lyme disease. Studies have shown that lemongrass oil has antimalarial and anti-protozoan properties, which is why it is used in many mosquito repellents.
Indeed, lemongrass is an aromatic storehouse of essential nutrients providing an array of health benefits. Include this wonderful herb in your daily diet and enjoy its benefits!
Stay healthy and safe!
