6 Health Benefits Of Consuming Lemon Grass

Lemon grass (Cymbopogon citratus) is a flowering plant native to India and Sri Lanka. It grows in temperate regions throughout Asia, Africa, Europe, North and South America. The leaves, flowers, seeds, and roots of the lemongrass contain essential oil compounds called citralides. These compounds exhibit antibacterial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antiphrastic properties.

The health benefits of lemon grass are enormous. For example, lemon grass contains natural vitamins, minerals, essential oils and antioxidants. Some studies suggest that it could reduce high blood pressure, improve digestion and boost immunity.

# Antibiotic Properties

The antibacterial properties of lemon grass make it great for treating cuts, wounds, and infections. These properties are particularly helpful when treating burns caused by scalding and frostbite. In fact, lemon grass contains citronellal, an oil that kills more than 80 types of bacteria, including Staphylococcus Aureus (S.A.) and Shigella spp. In addition, it also inhibits the growth of yeast and fungus.

# It Boosts the Immune System

Lemon grass antimicrobial properties make it a good treatment for colds and flu. This herb is loaded with antioxidants that boost the body’s natural defenses. Antioxidants provide protection against free radicals, molecules that damage cells and DNA. Free radicals cause various forms of cancer and heart disease. To top it off, lemon grass contains vitamins A, C, E, B1, B2, B12, folic acid, pantothenic acid, beta carotene, iron, manganese, zinc, copper, iodine, selenium, and niacin.

# Stress Reliever

There is no shortage of health benefits of lemon grass. When you’re feeling stressed out, nothing feels better than reaching for a cup of tea or glass of water. But did you know that drinking lemon water can help relieve anxiety, stress, and depression? If the smell of lemon isn’t enough to calm you down, add a dash of olive oil to sweeten things up.

# Skin Cleanser

Freshly cut lemon grass is commonly used to cleanse the skin. Lemon grass contains citral, which helps fight the bacteria that cause acne. When applied topically, lemongrass also works as a natural exfoliant. Simply rub lemon grass onto your face to remove dead skin cells without stripping your skin of its natural oils.

# For Dry Skin and Hair

Lemon grass contains citronella, an oil that has natural antiseptic qualities. Citronella is often used in hair products such as shampoos to treat oily scalp conditions. Mixing lemon grass into a shampoo and massaging your head regularly helps clear excess oils and reduce dry scalp.

You can also use lemon grass to help treat dry skin conditions. Rub a few drops on your face and leave it overnight before washing off with warm water. Lemon grass is also frequently added to bathwater to help relieve muscle pain and relax sore muscles.

# Improving Digestion

Because of its antiseptic properties, lemon grass is great at treating digestive problems. It can be used to treat stomach ulcers, heartburn, and indigestion. To heal your gut naturally, steep fresh lemon grass in hot water overnight and drink the following day. If you would prefer not to consume the tea, simply chew slices of fresh lemon grass.