Lemongrass (also known as Cymbopogon Citratus) is a tall evergreen grass that’s native to African and Asian countries.
Most of us will recognize lemongrass from some of our favorite restaurant menus, but it is also popping up in bath and body products, teas, and even our pet’s natural pest repellent. This tender perennial is found in Africa, South America, Australia, Oceania, and Asia. It is especially cherished in India, China, and Thailand where the grass features prominently in local cuisine.
There are more historical lemongrass uses than the gastronomic, as the plant was distilled for shipping as part of the perfume industry as early as the 17th century. Poor hygienic conditions of the period required people in polite society to anoint themselves with scented oils. Lemongrass was one of the more popular oils of the period among the well-heeled that could afford this exotic import.
In Nigerian, Lemongrass are been called Fever grass, it helps reduce fever, colds, and cough.
Lemongrass history also indicates the oils were used to relieve joint pain, muscle soreness, dandruff control, and as an insect repellent.
It is rich in antioxidants that help fight off free radicals and detoxifies the body. In most West African countries, it’s commonly used for the treatment of malaria and fever. The plant also repels mosquitoes.
Benefits of Lemongrass:
1. Aids digestion:
Lemongrass has antimicrobial and antibacterial properties, which help the body eliminate unhealthy food additives, chemicals, and excess fats. It also prevents stomach ulcers, stomach aches, bloating, and cramps. It also treats constipation and diarrhea.
2. cholesterol levels:
Lemongrass limits cholesterol absorption in the intestine. It prevents the accumulation of lipids in the blood vessel and promotes blood flow in the arteries, therefore preventing many cardiac disorders.
3. Treats insomnia:
Lemongrass aids in calming muscles and nerves, which causes relaxation and promotes sleep.
4. Maintains the nervous system:
Lemongrass stimulates the mind, combats convulsions, vertigo, and nervousness.it calms the nerves and relieves the symptoms of anxiety and fatigue caused by stress.
5. Detoxifies the body:
Due to its diuretic properties, Lemongrass cleanses and flushes out harmful toxins from the body by increasing the quantity and frequency of urination. This urination, in turn, purifies the kidney, liver, bladder, and pancreas. It also increases blood flow in the body.
6. Anticancer:
Lemongrass is effective in preventing the growth of cancer cells without affecting the healthy cells of the body.
7. Prevents anemia:
Lemongrass’s regular intake helps keep the body hemoglobin levels up and prevent any ailment related to iron deficiency.
8. Respiratory disorders:
Lemongrass is widely used in treating cough and cold. The vitamin C content helps provide relief from nasal blockage, flu, and other respiratory diseases.
9. Reduces fever:
The antipyretic effect is effective in curing fever by inducing sweating.
10. To treat an infection:
Lemongrass works as an antiseptic and is effective in treating infections such as ringworm, scabies, athletes foot, sores, yeast infections, and urinary tract infections (UTI).
11. Relieves pain and inflammation:
Lemongrass alleviates pains and discomfort caused by headaches and migraines due to its analgesic properties. It also helps in relieving spasms, menstrual cramps, muscle cramps, sprains, rheumatism, and backache.
12. Skincare.
Lemongrass contains astringent and antiseptic properties, which makes it an effective cleanser for oily and acne-prone skin. It helps in strengthening the skin tissues and toning the pores while cleaning them. It prevents acne, pimples, eczema, and psoriasis. Care should be taken while using Lemongrass for the skin. It could irritate if undiluted.
13. Boosts immunity:
Lemongrass helps restore the vital systems in the body, assists in better absorption of nutrients, and strengthens the body.
14. Controls body odour:
Lemongrass is filled with cleansing antibacterial and antifungal properties, which helps controls excessive sweating and combats unpleasant body odour.
15. Insect repellent:
Lemongrass is used as a natural insect repellent and helps in preventing the occurrence of insect-borne infections such as malaria, dengue, and Lyme disease.