Lemon Grass Leaf

Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus and Cymbopogon flexuosus) is a fragrant tropical herb widely used in cooking, teas, and herbal medicine. Let’s break it down:

Lemongrass

• A tall grass native to India, Sri Lanka, and Southeast Asia.
• Has a fresh lemony aroma due to its essential oils, especially citral.
• Common in Thai, Vietnamese, and Indian cuisine, as well as teas and essential oils.

Key Compounds

• Citral (neral + geranial) → main component, gives lemon scent, antimicrobial, antifungal.
• Flavonoids & Phenolic compounds → antioxidant effects.
• Myrcene & Limonene → contribute to anti-inflammatory activity.

Health Benefits of Lemongrass

1. Digestive Support: Traditionally used for stomach upset, bloating, and indigestion.
2. Anti-Anxiety & Relaxation: Lemongrass tea or aroma can have mild calming effects.
3. Antimicrobial & Antifungal: Lemongrass oil is effective against fungi, bacteria, and even some parasites. Commonly used in natural cleaning products and skin care.
4. Pain & Inflammation Relief: Some studies suggest lemongrass tea or oil helps with arthritis and muscle pain.
5. Blood Sugar & Cholesterol: Animal studies show potential for lowering blood sugar and cholesterol, but more human research is needed.
6. Skin & Hair Benefits: Essential oil is used in acne care and as a natural insect repellent.

Common Uses & Dosages

• Tea (infusion): 1–2 stalks (fresh or dried) boiled in water, or 1–2tsp dried leaves per cup, steeped 5–10 min.
• Essential Oil: Used in aromatherapy diffusers, massage oils (always diluted with a carrier oil), or natural sprays.
• Culinary: Adds lemony flavor to soups, curries, stir-fries, and marinades.
• Topical: Creams, balms, or oils for skin conditions, fungal infections, or muscle relief.

Safety & Precautions

• Tea and food use: Generally safe in moderate amounts.
• Essential oil: Must be diluted before applying to skin (can irritate).
• Not enough evidence for pregnancy safety, so best avoided in large medicinal amounts.
• May interact with diuretics or blood pressure medications (mild blood pressure-lowering effect).

Fun Fact: In Caribbean folk medicine, lemongrass tea is often called “fever grass tea” because it was used to bring down fevers and chills.