Lemongrass is a tropical grass that has an intense citrus flavor. It is used extensively in Asian cuisine, as well as in herbal teas and essential oils. Lemongrass is rich in antioxidants and has been traditionally used for centuries to treat a variety of ailments.
Some of the most common uses for lemongrass include treating digestive issues, reducing inflammation, relieving pain, boosting energy levels, and improving circulation. Lemongrass can be consumed fresh, dried, or in the form of an extract or oil.
One of the main compounds found in lemongrass is citral, which gives the herb its characteristic lemon smell. Citral is known to have antibacterial and antifungal properties. This makes lemongrass an effective treatment for gastrointestinal infections and other illnesses caused by bacteria or fungi.
Lemongrass also contains several other compounds with medicinal properties including limonene, geraniol, linalool, and myrcene. These compounds have been shown to possess anti-inflammatory, analgesic (pain-relieving), and antioxidant effects. Additionally, lemongrass essential oil has been shown to be an effective mosquito repellent.
The vast majority of research on lemongrass has been conducted using animal or laboratory models rather than humans. However, there is some evidence from human studies that supports many of the traditional uses of this herb. For example, one study found that consuming 2 grams of lemongrass per day reduced stomach pain and bloating in people with functional dyspepsia (a condition characterized by chronic indigestion).
Another study showed that taking a daily supplement containing 200 mg of lemongrass extract improved symptoms of arthritis such as joint pain and stiffness after just two weeks . And finally, a small clinical trial found that applying lemon grass oil to the skin was effective at reducing muscle pain .