Lemongrass
Lemongrass
Lemongrass is also known as Bhutrin in Ayurveda. It is widely used in the food industry as a flavouring agent.
Lemongrass helps maintain blood cholesterol levels by lowering the bad cholesterol and manages blood pressure due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Drinking Lemongrass tea (kadha) twice a day helps in weight loss as it removes toxins from the body and improves metabolism.
Applying Lemongrass oil to the skin in combination with some carrier oil like olive oil or coconut oil helps to get relief from pain and swelling due to its anti-inflammatory property. This remedy is also beneficial for dandruff when applied to the scalp due to its antifungal property.
Lemongrass oil should always be used in diluted form along with some carrier oil like almond oil, coconut oil or olive oil to avoid irritation and allergies[2].
Lemongrass helps maintain blood cholesterol levels by lowering the bad cholesterol and manages blood pressure due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Drinking Lemongrass tea (kadha) twice a day helps in weight loss as it removes toxins from the body and improves metabolism.
Applying Lemongrass oil to the skin in combination with some carrier oil like olive oil or coconut oil helps to get relief from pain and swelling due to its anti-inflammatory property. This remedy is also beneficial for dandruff when applied to the scalp due to its antifungal property.
Lemongrass oil should always be used in diluted form along with some carrier oil like almond oil, coconut oil or olive oil to avoid irritation and allergies[2].
What are the synonyms of Lemongrass?
Cymbopogon citratus, Bhutrin, Bhutik, Chatra, Hari chai, Agni ghass, Majigehulu, Purahalihulla, Oilcha, Lilacha, Lilicha, Karpurappilu, Chippagaddi, Nimmagaddi, Khawi, Gandhabena, Shambharapulla, Gandhabena, Shambharapula, Mirvacha, West Indian Lemongrass, Melissa grass, Hirvacha, Haona, Chae kashmiri, Jazar masalah[1].
What is the source of Lemongrass?
Plant Based
Benefits of Lemongrass
Modern Science View
Lemongrass oil might be beneficial in the management of dandruff. It has good antifungal property[3][7].
Ayurvedic View
Lemongrass oil has anti-dandruff property. It helps to clean without irritating the scalp. It is especially useful for controlling chronic dandruff which is due to excessive dryness on the scalp. Applying Lemongrass oil helps to remove dryness in the scalp and controls dandruff. This is due to its Snigdha (oily) property.
Tips:
1. Take 2-5 drops of Lemongrass oil or as per your requirement.
2. Mix with 1-2 teaspoon Coconut oil.
3. Apply on the scalp and massage well.
4. Repeat once a week to control dandruff.
Tips:
1. Take 2-5 drops of Lemongrass oil or as per your requirement.
2. Mix with 1-2 teaspoon Coconut oil.
3. Apply on the scalp and massage well.
4. Repeat once a week to control dandruff.
Modern Science View
Lemongrass essential oil might be beneficial in the management of yeast infection in the mouth (thrush). It has fungicidal activity. It results in the death of the fungus responsible for the infection and thus relieves from the symptoms of thrush[3][9].
Ayurvedic View
Lemongrass oil is useful to control yeast infection in the mouth when applied on the affected area. This is because of its Ropan (healing) property which helps to accelerate the process of healing.
1. Take 2-5 drops of Lemongrass oil or as per your requirement.
2. Mix with 1-2 teaspoon Coconut oil.
3. Apply on the affected area to fungal infection in the mouth.
1. Take 2-5 drops of Lemongrass oil or as per your requirement.
2. Mix with 1-2 teaspoon Coconut oil.
3. Apply on the affected area to fungal infection in the mouth.
Modern Science View
Lemongrass oil might be beneficial in the management of pain and swelling[3][8].
Ayurvedic View
Lemongrass oil helps to reduce pain and swelling especially bone and joint pain when applied to the affected area. According to Ayurveda, the bones and joints are considered a site of Vata in the body. Pain in the joints is mainly due to Vata imbalance. A massage with Lemongrass oil mixed with coconut oil helps to reduce joint pain due to its Vata balancing property.
Tips:
1. Take 2-5 drops Lemongrass oil or as per your requirement.
2. Mix with 1-2 teaspoon of Sesame oil.
3. Apply on the affected area to get relief from pain and swelling.
Tips:
1. Take 2-5 drops Lemongrass oil or as per your requirement.
2. Mix with 1-2 teaspoon of Sesame oil.
3. Apply on the affected area to get relief from pain and swelling.
Modern Science View
Lemongrass oil might be beneficial in the management of headache[3][8].
Ayurvedic View
Lemongrass helps to reduce a stress-induced headache when applied topically. Applying Lemongrass oil on forehead alleviate stress, fatigue and relaxes tense muscles which helps to reduce a headache. This is due to its Vata balancing property.
Tips:
1. Take 2-5 drops of Lemongrass oil or as per your requirement.
2. Mix with 1-2 teaspoon of Almond oil.
3. Apply on the affected area to manage headache.
Tips:
1. Take 2-5 drops of Lemongrass oil or as per your requirement.
2. Mix with 1-2 teaspoon of Almond oil.
3. Apply on the affected area to manage headache.
How effective is Lemongrass?
Insufficient evidence
Dandruff, Fungal infections of mouth (Thrush), Headache, Swelling
Precautions when using Lemongrass
Allergy
Ayurvedic View
It is advisable to dilute Lemongrass oil with any other oil like coconut/almond/olive oil before applying to the skin. This is due to its Ushna (hot) potency.
Recommended Dosage of Lemongrass
- Lemongrass Oil - 2-5 drops teaspoon a day or as per your requirement.
- Lemongrass Powder - ¼-½ teaspoon as per your requirement.
How to use Lemongrass
1. Lemongrass oil
A. Skin
a. Take 2-5 drops of Lemongrass oil or as per your requirement.
b. Mix with a few drops of Almond or Coconut oil.
c. Apply on the skin and massage for some time till the oil gets absorbed.
B. Achy feet
a. Add 2 drops of Lemongrass essential oil to a tub of hot water.
b. Add 2 tablespoons of Epsom salts.
c. Soak your feet in it for about 10-15 minutes to get relief from pain in the feet.
C. Hair
a. Take a few drops of Lemongrass oil and dilute with a few drops of Almond or Coconut oil.
b. Apply on the scalp and hair and massage for some time.
c. Leave it for at least one hour.
d. Rinse it off with shampoo and water.
A. Skin
a. Take 2-5 drops of Lemongrass oil or as per your requirement.
b. Mix with a few drops of Almond or Coconut oil.
c. Apply on the skin and massage for some time till the oil gets absorbed.
B. Achy feet
a. Add 2 drops of Lemongrass essential oil to a tub of hot water.
b. Add 2 tablespoons of Epsom salts.
c. Soak your feet in it for about 10-15 minutes to get relief from pain in the feet.
C. Hair
a. Take a few drops of Lemongrass oil and dilute with a few drops of Almond or Coconut oil.
b. Apply on the scalp and hair and massage for some time.
c. Leave it for at least one hour.
d. Rinse it off with shampoo and water.
Frequently asked questions
Modern Science View
Lemongrass has a number of health benefits. It may give relief from stomach disorders, insomnia, respiratory disorders, fever, aches, infections, inflammation of joints, and swelling. Lemongrass is rich in antioxidants which help in protecting against bacterial infections and in maintaining optimum cholesterol levels, cellular and nervous health. It is effective in maintaining healthy skin and boosting the immune system. Lemongrass may also be useful in managing type 2 diabetes, cancer, and obesity, while also aiding in detoxification. It is extensively used in aromatherapy to help combat fatigue, anxiety, and body odor.
Modern Science View
Fresh Lemongrass can be used in cooking, especially Asian cuisine. It can be added in curries, soups, salads and meats. The woody stalks at the base of the plant are used for cooking instead of the leaves.
To use the Lemongrass stalks for cooking:
Peel away any dry and papery layers from the stalks and trim away the bottom end of the root as well the top woody part until you are left with about 5-6 inches of the stalk.
This is the only part used for cooking.
You can now chop or mince the Lemongrass to add to the dishes.
Fresh Lemongrass can also be used to make refreshing tea which has a number of health benefits.
To use the Lemongrass stalks for cooking:
Peel away any dry and papery layers from the stalks and trim away the bottom end of the root as well the top woody part until you are left with about 5-6 inches of the stalk.
This is the only part used for cooking.
You can now chop or mince the Lemongrass to add to the dishes.
Fresh Lemongrass can also be used to make refreshing tea which has a number of health benefits.
Modern Science View
To consume Lemongrass, chop off the bottom root end and the top woody part of the stalk (or smash the top part to release the aromatic oils). After that, either use the whole stalk or chop or mince it before using it for cooking.
Modern Science View
No, Lemongrass tea is completely herbal, it has no caffeine or tannins at all.
Modern Science View
Firstly, peel away any dry and papery layers from the stalks and cut away the bottom end of the root as well the top woody part until you are left with about 5-6 inches of the stalk. This is the only part that can be consumed.
Modern Science View
Lemongrass is a tropical plant that thrives in full sun, even in hot Southern locations. It requires rich, well-drained soil and adding composted manure to the soil improves its fertility and enhance its ability to hold water.
Tips to grow Lemongrass:
1. Provide a steady supply of moisture for best growth and do not let the roots dry out.
2. If you’re adding several Lemongrass plants to planting beds, space plants 24 inches apart.
3. In colder regions, plant Lemongrass indoors and keep in a bright spot while keeping the soil barely moist.
Tips to grow Lemongrass:
1. Provide a steady supply of moisture for best growth and do not let the roots dry out.
2. If you’re adding several Lemongrass plants to planting beds, space plants 24 inches apart.
3. In colder regions, plant Lemongrass indoors and keep in a bright spot while keeping the soil barely moist.
Modern Science View
Both, Citronella (Cymbopogon Nardus) and Lemongrass (Cymbopogon Citratus) are cousins in nature. They look similar and grow the same way. They are also processed in the same manner to obtain essential oils. But, Citronella is not for consumption while Lemongrass can be consumed or used as a herbal tea. To distinguish between them, remember that Citronella has pseudostems (false stems) that are reddish in colour while Lemongrass stalks are green.
Modern Science View
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 it is properly stored, fresh Lemongrass will stay for about 10-14 days in the refrigerator.
To freeze fresh Lemongrass:
1. Wash, trim and chop the Lemongrass.
2. Allow to dry thoroughly.
3. Once completely dry, place it in freezer bags or freeze in ice cube trays with a small amount of water, then transfer to freezer bags.
4. Keep the freezer bags or trays containing Lemongrass in the freezer at -20℃.
5. Lemongrass can be stored in the freezer for as long as 4-6 months.
1. First wrap the Lemongrass in a damp paper towel.
2. Then place it in a plastic bag in the refrigerator.
3. If it is properly stored, fresh Lemongrass will stay for about 10-14 days in the refrigerator.
To freeze fresh Lemongrass:
1. Wash, trim and chop the Lemongrass.
2. Allow to dry thoroughly.
3. Once completely dry, place it in freezer bags or freeze in ice cube trays with a small amount of water, then transfer to freezer bags.
4. Keep the freezer bags or trays containing Lemongrass in the freezer at -20℃.
5. Lemongrass can be stored in the freezer for as long as 4-6 months.
Modern Science View
To make a basic Lemongrass marinade:
1. Grind 3 stalks of Lemongrass (chopped bottom, white part only), 2 garlic cloves and 1 tablespoon chili sauce (optional) until it turns into a fine paste.
2. Combine 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 2 tablespoons fish sauce, 2 table spoons sugar, ¼ teaspoon salt and 3 tablespoons soya oil (or olive oil) with the paste.
3. Let the marinade sit for about 1-2 minutes.
4. Coat the meat (½-1 kg) properly with the marinade.
5. Let it sit overnight or for 4-5 hours before cooking.
6. You can also save the marinade by freezing it and storing in the freezer until needed.
1. Grind 3 stalks of Lemongrass (chopped bottom, white part only), 2 garlic cloves and 1 tablespoon chili sauce (optional) until it turns into a fine paste.
2. Combine 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 2 tablespoons fish sauce, 2 table spoons sugar, ¼ teaspoon salt and 3 tablespoons soya oil (or olive oil) with the paste.
3. Let the marinade sit for about 1-2 minutes.
4. Coat the meat (½-1 kg) properly with the marinade.
5. Let it sit overnight or for 4-5 hours before cooking.
6. You can also save the marinade by freezing it and storing in the freezer until needed.
Modern Science View
Yes, Lemongrass can be consumed raw but before consuming it raw, peel off the outer layer of dried leaves from the stalk. Cut the dry top of the stalk as well before rinsing off the bottom bulb. You can eat the whole Lemongrass, including the stalk. However, the stalk is tough and hard to chew. For this reason, you may want to remove the stalk before consuming the raw Lemongrass.
Modern Science View
1. Dry the leaves of Lemongrass.
2. Then, grind the leaves.
3. You can use this powder to sprinkle over food or tea.
2. Then, grind the leaves.
3. You can use this powder to sprinkle over food or tea.
References
- Balkrishnan A.Bhutrin.Ayurved Jadi Buti Rehsya. Danik Bhaskar.2017.
- Manvitha K, Bidya B.Review on pharmacological activity of Cymbopogon citratus.International Journal of Herbal Medicine 2014;1(6):5-7.
- WebMD.Lemongrass: Uses, Side effects, Doses, Interactions [Internet].Atlanta [last updated in 2016].
- Ekpenyong CE, Akpan EE, Daniel NE.Phytochemical constituents, therapeutic applications and toxicological profile of Cymbopogon citratus Stapf (DC) leaf extract.Journal of Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry.2014;3(1):133-141.
- Guzman-Gutierrez SL, Balperas JL, Aguilar A et al.Sedative activity of some plants used in Mexico to treat insomnia.Rev Latinoam Quim.2009;37(3):243-251.
- Ekpenyong CE, Daniel NE, Antai AB.Effect of Lemongrass tea consumption on estimated glomerular filtration rate and creatinine clearance rate.J Ren Nutr.2015;2(9):704-713.
- Cox A.Essential Oil: 75 Amazing Essential Oil Recipes for Weight Loss, Natural Healing, Aromatherapy and Home Cleaning.Amazing publisher.2017.
- Ranade SS, Thiagarajan P.Lemon grass.Int. J. Pharm. Sci Rev Res.2015;35(2):162-167.
- Liversidge C.Homegrown Tea: An Illustrated Guide to Planting, Harvesting, and Blending Teas and Tisanes.St. Martin’s press.2014.
- Nambiar VS, Matela H.Potential Functions of Lemon Grass (Cymbopogon citratus) in Health and Disease.IJPBA.2012;3(5):1035-1043.
Disclaimer
The content is purely informative and educational in nature and should not be construed as medical advice. Please use the content only in consultation with an appropriate certified medical or healthcare professional.