Lemongrass is also known as Bhutrin in Ayurveda. It is widely used as a flavoring agent in the food industry. Lemongrass helps maintain blood cholesterol by lowering bad cholesterol and regulates blood pressure due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Medicinal plants are essential in protecting human health. Interest in pharmacology evaluation of various plants used in the Indian traditional method is growing around the globe. Lemongrass is one of great commercial interest. Valuable essential oils are also widely used in food technology as in conventional medicine.
According to USDA data, one tablespoon of fresh lemon provides five calories, most of which are from carbohydrates (fiber) and protein. Lemon is rich in calcium (3 mg), potassium (34 mg), manganese (0.2 mg), magnesium (2.9 mg) and iron (0.4 mg). Lemongrass provides some vitamins (in minimal amounts), including vitamin A, vitamin C, folate, and niacin. However, eating Lemongrass does not have a significant effect on your daily vitamin needs.
Drinking Lemongrass tea (Kada) twice a day helps in weight loss as it removes toxins from the body and improves metabolic function. The leaves contain folic acid, vitamin C, and vitamin B. Lemongrass improves digestion and calms the nervous system. It is an antiseptic that helps with coughs and colds. Since it is a natural diuretic, it helps to expel toxins from the body and keep it healthy.
It is a folk remedy for Cough, Elephantiasis, Influenza, Gingivitis, leprosy, Headache, malaria, pneumonia, ophthalmic, vascular disorders. Studies have proven Lemongrass has antibacterial and antifungal properties. Combined with pepper, it is homemade therapy for menstrual problems and nausea. Lemongrass is a good cleanser and helps eliminate toxins from the liver, pancreas, bladder, kidneys, and digestive tract. It lowers uric acid, cholesterol, excess fats, and other toxins in the body while stimulating digestion, blood circulation, and breastfeeding; It relieves indigestion and gastroenteritis. It is said that Lemongrass helps to improve the skin by reducing pimples and acne and acts as tissue and muscle toner. Also, it lowers blood pressure.
Applying Lemongrass oil on the skin and some carrier oils like coconut oil or olive oil can relieve pain and inflammation due to its anti-inflammatory properties. The oil acts as an effective destroyer against bacteria, influenza, and colds. It contains stimulant agents, tonics, fragrances, diuretics, and antispasmodics. Lemongrass oils can be used by people suffering from urinary problems. It is an excellent oil to cool body temperature and rejuvenate the mind and soul in hot weather. Among other health benefits, it can improve digestion, menstrual problems, nausea, headaches, spasms, muscle aches, and rheumatism.
This remedy is also beneficial for treating dandruff when applied on the scalp due to its antifungal properties. Lemongrass oil should be used in combination with carrier oils such as almond oil, coconut oil, or olive oil to prevent irritation and allergies.
What are the synonyms of Lemongrass?
Lemongrass is known in different names in different languages. It's known as Karpura Pullu or Vasanai Pullu in Tamil. Inchi Pullu, Vasana Pullu, Sugandha Bhoothrana, Thakra Thuni in Malayalam. In Telegu, it's known as Nimma Gaddi or Vasana Gaddi. In Kannada, it's known as Majjige Hullu or Purvali Hullu. In Hindi, it's known as Chaipatt. In Bengali as Gandha bena. In Gujarati as Lilly Chaya. In Konkani as Chahaveche Than and as Sugandhichaha, Bhustrima in Marathi.
What is the origin of Lemongrass?
Lemongrass, an Ayurvedic medicine, is a plant-based herb. The crop grows well in tropical and subtropical climates up to 900 m. However, the ideal conditions for growing Lemongrass are warm, humid weather, adequate sunshine, and 250-330 cm of rainfall per annum distributed evenly throughout the year. For Lemongrass to provide high crop yield, it can grow under temperature ranging from 20-30 degrees Celsius along with good sunlight can act as a conducive environment for growth. Well-drained sandy loam is well suited for plant growth. It can be grown in a variety of soils, from loamy to poor laterite. Calcareous and waterlogged soils are not suitable for cultivation.
What are the benefits of Lemongrass for high cholesterol?
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Modern Science
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Ayurveda
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As per modern science, Lemongrass can help combat high cholesterol. It lowers harmful cholesterol levels and has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which reduce cholesterol-related problems.
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According to Ayurveda, High Cholesterol Comes Due to Imbalance of Pachak Agni (Digestive Fire). Ama (toxin remains in the body) is produced due to improper digestion at the tissue level. It raises bad cholesterol and clogs blood vessels. Lemongrass helps in improving Agni (digestive fire) and reduce Ama. This is due to its Deepan (appetite) and Pachan (digestive) properties, leading to removing accumulated bad cholesterol and maintaining a normal cholesterol level. Drinking Lemongrass tea regularly can help control cholesterol levels.
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How to make Lemongrass tea?
1. Take 1 cup of boiling water.
2. Add ¼ - ½ tsp fresh or dried powdered Lemongrass leaves.
3. Let it simmer for 5-10 minutes and filter.
4. Take once or twice a day to control high cholesterol.
What are the benefits of Lemongrass for high blood pressure (hypertension)?
According to modern science, Lemongrass is beneficial in controlling high blood pressure. It helps to increase the level of nitric oxide, which helps in relaxing the blood vessels. Due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, it helps in preventing vascular damage.
What are the benefits of Lemongrass for diabetes mellitus (type 1 & type 2)?
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Ayurveda
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As per modern science, Lemongrass can be used to control diabetes. It lowers the level of increased blood glucose levels. Since it has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, it reduces the risk of developing diabetes-related complications.
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According to Ayurveda, Diabetes is also known as Madhumeha due to the exacerbation of Vata and indigestion. Indigestion leads to Ama's accumulation (toxins left in the body due to improper digestion) in the pancreatic cells, which interferes with insulin action. Lemongrass helps in improving digestion due to its Deepan (appetizer) and Pachan (digestive) properties. This helps in reducing Ama and further enhances the function of insulin.
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Lemongrass has a Tikta(bitter) taste for maintaining blood sugar levels
Tips:
1. Take 1 cup of boiling water.
2. Add ¼ - ½ tsp fresh or dried powdered Lemongrass leaves.
3. Let it simmer for 5-10 minutes and filter.
4. Take once or twice a day to control diabetes.
What are the benefits of Lemongrass for cough?
As per Ayurveda, Lemongrass is a useful plant for treating coughs and colds. Lemongrass helps control cough, expels mucus, and clears airways, allowing the patient to breathe freely. This is due to the presence of Kapha balancing property. Drink a cup of Lemongrass tea daily whenever you have a cough or cold.
Tips to make Lemongrass tea
1. Take 1 cup of boiling water.
2. Add ¼ - ½ tsp fresh or dried powdered Lemongrass leaves
3. Let it simmer for 5-10 minutes and filter.
4. d. Take once or twice a day to get rid of coughs and colds.
What are the benefits of Lemongrass for flatulence (gas formation)?
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Modern Science
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Ayurveda
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As per the scientific view, Lemongrass can be used in the management of abdominal pain.
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As per Ayurveda, Lemongrass helps in reducing stomach aches like gas or flatulence. Flatulence or gas is caused by an imbalance of Pitta and Vata Dosha. Aggravated Vata and low pita dosha lead to low digestive fire, leading to indigestion. Poor digestion can lead to gas formation or flatulence, which can cause abdominal pain. Drinking Lemongrass tea can improve digestive fire and prevent flatulence, thereby relieving gas-induced abdominal pain.
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Tips to make Lemongrass tea
1. Take 1 cup of boiling water.
2. Add ¼ - ½ tsp fresh or dried powdered Lemongrass leaves.
3. Let it simmer for 5-10 minutes and filter.
4. Take once or twice a day to control abdominal pain.
What are the benefits of Lemongrass for rheumatoid arthritis?
According to scientific evidence, Lemongrass essential oil can be used to treat rheumatoid arthritis. It has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which helps in reducing joint pain and inflammation.
How effective is Lemongrass?
There has been insufficient evidence recorded as per how effective is Lemongrass in treating the conditions mentioned above: Cough, common cold symptoms, illness, diabetes (type 1 & type 2), flatulence (gas formation), fever, high blood pressure, (hypertension), rheumatoid arthritis and vomiting.
Precautions when consuming Lemongrass
Breastfeeding
There is not enough evidence for the use of Lemongrass in breastfeeding. Since a specific diet is recommended to mothers during this period, it is advisable to avoid or consult a doctor before using Lemongrass while breastfeeding.
Pregnancy
Due to a lack of scientific evidence, avoid eating Lemongrass during pregnancy because it can cause bleeding and pregnancy loss. It has a negative effect on the fetus. Since there are many hormonal changes a female goes through during pregnancy, it is recommended not to take Lemongrass during pregnancy or consult a doctor.
The recommended dose for Lemongrass
● Lemongrass powder - 2-teaspoon twice a day.
● Lemongrass capsule - 1-2 capsules twice a day.
● Lemongrass tea - 1 or 2 times a day.
How to Use Lemongrass
1. Lemongrass stalk-for cooking
● Peel away the dried outer layers of the lemongrass stalk
● Cut the bottom root end at the bottom and the top wooden part of the stalks.
● Use the remaining 5-6 inches of the stalk for cooking.
2. Lemongrass powder
● Take 1 cup of boiling water.
● Add ¼ - ½ tsp fresh or dried powdered Lemongrass leaves.
● Let it simmer for 5-10 minutes and filter.
● Take once or twice a day for better results.
3. Lemongrass tea
● Take 1 cup of boiled water
● Put the Lemongrass in the one teabag.
● Allow it to brew for 2-3 minutes.
● Add natural sweeteners like honey.
● Take once or twice a day.
Benefits of Lemongrass
What are the benefits of treating dandruff?
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Modern Science
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Ayurveda
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As per modern science, Lemongrass Oil is useful for treating dandruff. It has good antifungal properties.
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According to Ayurveda, Lemongrass oil has anti-dandruff properties. It helps to cleanse the scalp without irritation. It is especially useful for controlling chronic dandruff caused by dry scalp. Applying Lemongrass oil can prevent dryness and dandruff on the scalp. This is due to its Snigdha (oily) property.
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Tips:
1. Take 2-5 drops of Lemongrass oil or as needed.
2. Mix in 1-2 tablespoons of coconut oil.
3. Apply on scalp and massage well.
4. Repeat once a week to control dandruff.
What are the benefits of Lemongrass for Oral Fungal Infection (Thrush)?
As per Modern science, Lemongrass essential oil effectively controls yeast infections in the mouth (thrush). It has antifungal action. It causes the fungus's death that causes the infection and thus eliminates the symptoms of thrush due to its fungicidal activity.
According to Ayurveda, Lemongrass oil is useful in controlling yeast infections in the mouth when applied to the affected area. This is because of the Ropan (healing) property that helps speed up the healing process.
1. Take 2-5 drops of Lemongrass oil or as needed.
2. Mix in 1-2 tsp. of coconut oil.
3. Apply to the affected area of the oral fungal infection.
Are there any benefits of Lemongrass for Swelling?
As per modern science, Lemongrass oil helps in managing pain and inflammation.
According to Ayurveda, Lemongrass Oil helps reduce pain and swell, especially bone and joint pain. According to Ayurveda, bones and joints are considered to be the site of Vata in the body. Pain in the joints is mainly due to an imbalance of Vata Dosha. Massage with Lemongrass oil mixed with coconut oil to reduce joint pain due to its Vata balancing property.
Tips:
1. Take 2-5 drops of Lemongrass oil or as needed.
2. Mix 1-2 teaspoons of sesame oil.
3. Apply on the affected area to get relief from pain and swelling.
What are the benefits of Lemongrass for treating headaches?
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Modern Science
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Ayurveda
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As per modern science, Lemongrass can help in the management of headache.
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According to Ayurveda, Lemongrass helps to reduce headaches when applied to the forehead. Using Lemongrass oil on the forehead reduces stress and fatigue and reduces stress. It helps to relieve headaches. This is because of its share balancing property.
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Tips:
1. Take 2-5 drops of Lemongrass oil or as needed.
2. Mix 1-2 tablespoons almond oil.
3. Apply to the affected area to control headaches.
How effective is Lemongrass?
There is a lack of enough scientific evidence to conclude that lemongrass help in the effective treatment of dandruff, oral fungal infection (thrush), headache, and swelling.
Precautions when using Lemongrass
Allergy
As per Ayurveda, It is advisable to dilute Lemongrass oil with coconut/almond/olive oil before applying to the skin. This is due to its Ushna (hot) property.
The recommended dose for Lemongrass
● Lemongrass powder – ¼ -1/2 tsp as required.
● Lemongrass oil - 2-5 drops of tsp per day or as per your requirement
How to Use Lemongrass
Lemongrass oil for skin
a. Take 2-5 drops of Lemongrass oil as needed.
b. Mix a few drops of almond or coconut oil.
c. Apply on skin and massage until oil is absorbed.
For Achy skin
a. Add two drops of Lemongrass essential oil to a tub of hot water.
b. Add 2 tbsp Epsom salts.
c. Soak your feet for about 10-15 minutes to get rid of leg pain.
For Hair
a. Take a few drops of Lemongrass oil and mix it with a few drops of almond or coconut oil.
b. Apply and massage on scalp and hair.
c. Leave for at least an hour.
d. Rinse with shampoo and water.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Is Lemongrass good?
According to modern science, Lemongrass has many health benefits. It relieves stomach ache, respiratory diseases, insomnia, fever, aches, joint inflammation, infections, and inflammation. It is rich in antioxidants, which help protect against bacterial infections and maintain proper cholesterol levels, cellular and nervous health. It is useful in maintaining healthy skin and boosting immunity. Lemongrass can also be used to treat type 2 diabetes, obesity, and cancer while also aids in detoxification. It is widely used in aromatherapy to combat fatigue, anxiety, and body odor.
Lemongrass, originally from Sri Lanka and southern India, is now widely cultivated in the United States and Asia's tropics. The plant is used in folk medicine as a fragrant and aromatic agent and for antispasmodic, hypotensive, anticonvulsant, analgesic, antiemetic, antitussive, and antitussive antihypertensive, antiseptic, antipsychotic, and gastrointestinal disorders. The plant is also used as an antibacterial, antidiarrheal and antioxidant, but its mechanism of action for various bioactivity has not been studied in detail. It also contains multiple phytoconstituents such as flavonoids, phenolic compounds, terpenoids, and essential oils that cause various biological activities.
Q2. How shall I use fresh Lemongrass?
According to modern science, Lemongrass can be used in cooking, especially Asian dishes. It can be added to curries, salads, soups, and meats. The twigs at the base of the plant are used for cooking instead of leaves.
Tips for cooking Lemongrass stalks
Remove the dry, paper layers from the stalks and trim the lower end of the root and the upper part of the wood until 5-6 inches of stem remains.
● This is the only component that will be used for cooking.
● You can now mince or chop the Lemongrass to include in dishes.
● Fresh Lemongrass can be used to make tea, which has several health benefits.
Q4. What part of the Lemongrass can we eat?
As per scientific view, to eat a Lemongrass, cut off the root's bottom end and the woody part of the stalk (or break off the top part to release essential oils). After that, use the whole stem can be chopped or sliced for cooking.
Q5. Does Lemongrass tea contain caffeine?
According to Modern Science, Lemongrass tea is completely herbal that has no caffeine or tannins at all.
Q6. How do I cut a Lemongrass?
As per modern science, remove the dry, papery layers from the stems and trim the root's base and the top of the tree until 5-6 inches of stalk remains. It should only be used.
Q7. Can Lemongrass grow easily?
As per modern science, Lemongrass is a tropical plant that thrives in full sun even in hot southern regions. It requires rich, well-drained soil, and the addition of composted manure to the ground increases its fertility and water retention capacity.
Lemongrass Growing Tips:
1. Provide constant supply moisture for proper growth and do not allow roots to dry out.
2. If you add several Lemongrass plants to the planting beds, space the plants 24 inches apart.
3. In cool places, plant Lemongrass indoors, keep it in a bright spot and keep the soil moist.
Q8. Is Citronella same as Lemongrass grass?
As per modern science, both Citronella (Cymbopogon Nardus) and Lemongrass (Cymbopogon Citratus) are like cousins in nature. They look much similar and grow the same way. They are processed in the same way to obtain essential oils. However, citronella is not for consumption, Lemongrass can be eaten or used as an herbal tea. To distinguish between them, keep in mind that citronella has pseudostems (false stalks), red in color, and Lemongrass stalks are green.
Q9. How long can a Lemongrass be stored in the fridge?
To store fresh Lemongrass in the refrigerator:
1. First, wrap the Lemongrass in a damp paper towel.
2. Then place it in a plastic bag in the refrigerator.
3. If stored properly, fresh Lemongrass will stay in the refrigerator for 10-14 days.
To freeze fresh Lemongrass:
1. Wash, chop and slice the Lemongrass.
2. Allow drying well.
3. When completely dry, place in freezer bags or freeze in small ice cube trays and then transfer to freezer bags.
4. Store freezer bags or trays containing Lemongrass in the freezer at -20 degrees Celsius.
5. Lemongrass can be stored in the freezer for 4-6 months.
Q10. How do you use Lemongrass to marinate?
As per modern science:
1. Grind three stalks of Lemongrass (chopped, white portion only), two garlic cloves, and 1 tbsp chili sauce (optional) until a smooth paste.
2. Mix 2 tablespoons soy sauce, two tablespoons fish sauce, two tablespoons sugar, ¼ teaspoon salt, and three tablespoons soy oil (or olive oil) paste.
3. Let the marinade sit for about 1-2 minutes.
4. Properly coat the meat (½-1 kg) with the marinade.
5. Let sit overnight or 4-5 hours before cooking.
6. You can freeze the marinade and store in the freezer as long as needed.
Q11. Can Lemongrass be eaten raw?
As per scientific view, Lemongrass can be eaten raw, but before eating raw, peel off the outer layer of dry leaves from the stalk. Trim the dry top of the stem before washing the bottom bulb. You can eat a whole Lemongrass, including the stalks. However, the stalk is stiff and difficult to chew. For this reason, you may want to remove the stem before eating raw Lemongrass.
Q12. How can I make Lemongrass powder?
Here’s how you can make Lemongrass powder
1. Dry the Lemongrass leaves.
2. Then, grind the leaves.
3. You can use this powder to sprinkle on food or tea.
Q13. Does Lemongrass Treat Insomnia?
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Modern Science
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Ayurveda
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According to modern science, Yes, Lemongrass can be used to treat insomnia. Lemongrass acts on the central nervous system and has sedative and antipsychotic effects, helping manage sleep disorders.
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As per Ayurveda, Lemongrass helps to control insomnia and provide sleep. According to Ayurveda, exacerbated Vata dosha makes the nervous system sensitive, which leads to Anidra (insomnia). Lemongrass tea helps in balancing Vata dosha and helps with sleep.
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Q13. Can Lemongrass cause miscarriage?
According to modern science, although there is not enough scientific evidence, Lemongrass can cause cervical bleeding and miscarriage. Since it has been found that Lemongrass can start menstrual flow, it may cause miscarriage. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid or consult a doctor before taking Lemongrass during pregnancy.
Q14. Can Lemongrass cause heartburn?
As per Ayurveda, Lemongrass does not cause heartburn, but overconsumption can cause gastric problems.
Q15. What are the benefits of Lemongrass tea?
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Modern Science
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Ayurveda
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As per the scientific view, there are many health benefits to drinking Lemongrass tea. It improves digestion and reduces stomach pain. It has analgesic and antiseptic properties and also helps in treating colds and coughs. It is a natural diuretic, which helps to increase urine production and remove toxins from the body. Therefore, it helps maintain overall health.
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According to Ayurveda, Lemongrass tea helps treat indigestion and anorexia due to its Deepan (appetite) and Pachan (digestive) properties. It also prevents the formation of gas.
Lemongrass tea also helps in controlling the cold caused by exacerbated Kapha Dosha. It also improves urine production and clears the intestines due to its Kapha balancing, Rechana (laxative), and Mutral (diuretic) properties. This leads to the elimination of toxins from the body.
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Q16. Lemongrass tea is good for weight loss and how to make one?
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Modern Science
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Ayurveda
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As per modern science, Lemongrass tea is good for weight loss. It cleanses the body of toxins and improves metabolic function. It suppresses appetite and reduces weight.
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As per Ayurveda, Weak digestion causes weight gain, which leads to excessive fat accumulation. Lemongrass tea is good for weight loss due to its Deepan (appetizer) and Pachana (digestion). It helps in the proper absorption of excess fat and improves metabolic function.
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Tips:
● Cut the Lemongrass stalks into 1-2-inch pieces.
● Then, boil a glass of water.
● Pour the Lemongrass stalks into the boiling water.
● Soak the sticks in water for about 5 minutes.
● Filter the liquid.
● Drink this once or twice a day.
Q16. Does Lemongrass help in tooth decay?
As per modern science, yes, Lemongrass oil plays a role in tooth decay. It has antibacterial activity, which prevents the growth of oral pathogens. This prevents the formation of bacterial biofilm on the teeth. It has anti-inflammatory properties and prevents inflammation of the gums.
Q17. Is Lemongrass good for the skin?
As per Ayurveda, yes, Lemongrass oil is good for the skin. It helps in reducing inflammation and speeding up the healing process. This is because of its Ropan (healing) property.
Q18. Can we apply Lemongrass oil directly on the skin?
As per modern science, no, we cannot. It is better to dilute Lemongrass oil in other oils like coconut, almond, or olive oil before applying it on the skin.