9 Health Benefits of Lemongrass
Medically reviewed by Allison Herries, RDN
Lemongrass—whose scientific name is Cymbopogon citratus—is an edible herb traditionally used in certain cuisines and aromatherapy. It may also be useful for medicinal purposes, with research showing potential gut, immune, and mental health benefits.
This article provides an overview of possible culinary and medicinal uses for lemongrass in essential oil and dried forms, also outlining the herb's common side effects and interactions.
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Forms of Lemongrass
In nature, lemongrass grows as a tall, thin, stalky plant that thrives best in a tropical or semitropical environment.
One of dozens in the Cymbopogon species, lemongrass can be modified for human use and consumption in the following forms:
Taken orally (by mouth) in beverages or food as a fresh or dried herb
Applied topically (to the skin) as a lotion or salve
Inhaled for aromatherapy purposes as an essential oil
Traditional Uses of Lemongrass
Native to parts of Asia, lemongrass is commonly cultivated in South America and Central America, Africa, and other tropical environments. With its lemony flavor and aroma, the plant's traditional uses are similar to how it is used today.
Lemongrass is a common flavor ingredient in herbal teas, soups, and other dishes. It's also been used in traditional medicine as a home remedy for various ailments involving digestion, fevers, the nervous system, and more.
Additionally, the plant has served as a key fragrance ingredient, both for therapeutic purposes and as an insect repellent.
9 Lemongrass Medicinal Benefits
Some research suggests that lemongrass may be able to help with certain ailments, like fever, inflammation, and digestive issues. While more scientific evidence is needed before lemongrass can be broadly recommended as a treatment, there are several promising medicinal benefits that the plant may be able to offer, including:
Anti-Inflammatory
Thanks to its antioxidant quercetin (a flavonoid or phytonutrient), lemongrass may have immunity benefits by stopping the release of certain inflammation-causing chemicals in the body that can lead to various health conditions and diseases.
Cardiovascular Health
Recent research on lemongrass has found it to potentially play a role in reducing the risk of heart disease, lowering low-density lipoprotein (LDL), considered "bad" cholesterol, levels, and supporting against hypertension (high blood pressure).
Antimicrobial
The antimicrobial properties of lemongrass may help fight off various germs, including bacterial oral infections that may lead to cavities or other mouth issues, plus certain fungal infections. When used topically, studies have shown that lemongrass may be beneficial in helping fungal infections caused by Candida (a common type of yeast) and other inflammatory skin conditions.
Digestive Support
Anecdotally, lemongrass has been a remedy for an upset stomach—including cramps and vomiting. However, at least one study found that lemongrass cuts down on the toxicity of Escherichia coli (E. coli), a bacterial infection that can cause food poisoning from contaminated foods. Other research done on animals found that lemongrass essential oil may help protect the stomach lining against gastric ulcers.
Cancer-Fighting
Certain components naturally found in lemongrass may help protect against some types of cancer by boosting the immune system or killing off the cells. While this research is promising, if you have a serious health condition like cancer, it's best to always check with a healthcare provider before adding any natural remedies to your routine.
Diuretic
A popular ingredient in beverages like detox teas, lemongrass may be helpful in weight loss and metabolism-boosting. Research does show that the plant is a natural diuretic (reduces fluid buildup), but more studies are needed on these specific properties before it can be widely recommended.
Pain Reliever and Fever Reducer
Natural chemicals in lemongrass might help relieve pain, swelling, and fever due to its soothing and anti-inflammatory benefits. Some studies have also shown that lemongrass oil may help cool the body’s temperature.
Dandruff Remedy
Some initial research points to lemongrass essential oil having dandruff-reducing properties. Experts think this may be due to the herb's ability to cut down on the growth of fungus that's linked to dandruff, but more research is needed.
Anxiety Reducer
The fresh, clean scent of lemongrass has long been used in products like candles, soaps, disinfectants, and insect repellants. But there may be more than just a pleasant smell behind this popular essential oil. Studies link the aroma of lemongrass to a quick reduction in anxiety and tension when inhaled.
Side Effects and Interactions
Lemongrass is considered to be generally safe for most people. That said, there are some potential side effects and interactions to consider when using lemongrass orally, topically, or therapeutically.
When used topically, lemongrass can cause skin irritation. Apply it with a carrier oil, and do a spot test of a small area of skin before using it generously. Many essential oils have the potential to prompt allergic contact dermatitis (a common skin reaction).
In addition, consuming high amounts of the plant extract has also been known to cause side effects such as:
When repeatedly consumed in high amounts, it may be possible that lemongrass could eventually cause liver, stomach, or kidney function damage.
Pregnant people are urged to avoid ingesting lemongrass unless otherwise directed by their healthcare provider, as some research has suggested that certain compounds present in the essential oil may be toxic to a growing fetus.
Takeaway
It is not recommended to ingest undiluted essential oils to apply undiluted essential oils directly onto the skin unless otherwise directed by a healthcare professional. Using undiluted essential oils—those that haven’t been mixed with a carrier oil, such as avocado, olive, or grapeseed oils—can increase the risk of serious adverse effects.
Summary
Lemongrass has traditionally been used in cuisine, teas, topicals, and essential oils as a potential remedy for minor ailments. Research is starting to back up some of these anecdotal claims, with studies pointing to the plant's anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and cancer-fighting properties, among others. Lemongrass may also help with digestive issues, relieve pain, reduce fever, ease anxiety, and more.
While lemongrass may be generally safe for most healthy adults, some people may experience an allergic reaction with side effects. Always check with a healthcare provider before using any natural remedies like lemongrass to make sure the herb is safe for you.
Read the original article on Verywell Health.
