Lemongrass is a tropical plant native to Southeast Asia, which has also spread to Africa, Australia, and the Americas. It is popular as a natural remedy for digestive problems, nervous system problems, and high blood pressure.
Lemongrass has antibacterial and antifungal properties and has traditionally been used as a pain reliever and fever reducer. It contains citral, a natural plant compound that has anti-inflammatory properties.
Lemongrass extract is also used to add a fresh scent to a variety of products, including soaps, candles, disinfectants, and insect repellants. It is a treasure trove of antioxidant-rich flavonoids and phenolic compounds. Below we discuss some of the key health benefits of lemongrass.
7 Amazing Health Benefits of Lemongrass
Below are some of the impressive health benefits of lemongrass.
1. Prevents Inflammation: One of the key health benefits of lemongrass is Quercetin, a flavonoid that has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Studies have shown it to reduce inflammation, thereby inhibiting the growth of cancer cells and protecting against heart disease.
2. Lowers Cholesterol: Lemongrass has shown promise in the area of cardiovascular health. Traditionally used in Africa to treat coronary heart disease, lemongrass effectively lowers elevated cholesterol levels, according to a study in which rats were treated with lemongrass extract for seven days, which showed a significant drop in cholesterol levels.
3. Supports Oral Health: Lemongrass has also been studied for its effects on oral health. A two-year study found promising results suggesting that using a mouthwash containing lemongrass oil twice daily for three weeks may moderately improve plaque and gingivitis levels. The results position lemongrass as a possible alternative to mouthwashes containing chlorhexidine, which can cause unwanted side effects. However, more research is needed to confirm the long-term benefits and safety of lemongrass essential oil for dental use.
4. Detoxification: A powerful diuretic herb, lemongrass helps to remove harmful toxins from the body. It supports the regulation of various body organs such as the liver and kidneys and helps lower uric acid levels. The diuretic effect of lemongrass encourages increased frequency and volume of urination, promoting digestive health, eliminating accumulated fat and maintaining a clean system.
5. Strengthening the immune system: Lemongrass plays a vital role in activating the body’s vital systems such as digestion, respiration and excretion. Its anti-inflammatory properties contribute to improved nutrient absorption and strengthen the body’s immune defense mechanisms.
Scientific studies have shown that lemongrass has a strong anti-inflammatory effect, mainly due to its citral content. These findings suggest that lemongrass may inhibit the production of cytokines, which act as important signaling molecules that facilitate cellular communication and response in the body.
Furthermore, lemongrass exhibits remarkable effects in strengthening the body’s immune defense system, promoting optimal nutrient absorption and preventing the occurrence of various diseases.
6. Reduces Fever: Lemongrass is an effective natural remedy for treating fever. It is also known as “fever grass” due to its antipyretic and sweat-inducing properties. In Ayurvedic medicine, it is often used to treat fever by inducing sweating.
7. Treats Type 2 Diabetes: Lemongrass has also been found to be helpful in treating type 2 diabetes. Helps maintain optimal insulin levels and improves the body’s glucose tolerance.
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