Lemongrass with scientific name Cymbopogon citratus and citrusy aroma is believed to originate in tropical regions of Asia. Since ancient times, it has been used in traditional medicine and culinary practices. The smell is fresh and light with a hint of lemon.
Importance of Lemongrass:
Lemongrass is a staple ingredient in Asian cuisines due to its unique citrus flavor, enhancing soups and teas. It is also valued in medicine for its digestive, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. In Ayurveda, Lemongrass is known to balance pitta and Kapha dosha.
The essential oil of Lemongrass is popular in Aromatherapy. Its pleasant aroma makes it a first choice in spas. The growing interest in natural and organic remedies has propelled the popularity of lemongrass, making it a common ingredient in teas, supplements, and skincare products.
Botanical name: Cymbopogon citratus
Sanskrit: Bhustrina
Hindi: Gandhatran, Nimbu ghaas
Ayurvedic view of Lemon grass
In Ayurveda Lemongrass is considered to have
Property (Guna ) : Dry (Lagu), penetrating (Tikshan).
Taste( Ras) : Katu(Pungent) , Tikt (Bitter).
Potency (potency) : Cool (sheeta).
Post digest effect ( Vipaak) : Katu (Pungent).
It balances the Vata, Pitta, Kapha Doshas, meaning it is Tridoshagan.
If taken in large quantity can increase Vata.
Lemon grass along with its pleasant smell not only uplifts mood but it’s properties also affects body and beauty.
Health Benefits of Lemon grass:
Body:
Ayurvedic uses: Digestion -Enhances digestion, reliefs bloating and reduces gas.
Detoxification – Helps in removing toxins from body.
Immune support – It is believed to boost immunity and help in fighting infection.
Balancing doshas – calms Kapha and pitta Dosha.
Other uses -It cleanses oral cavity, improves taste. Rubbing leaves of lemon grass on body acts as mosquito repellent.
Modern medicine: Antimicrobial – Antifungal and microbial action helps in treatment of Urinary tract infection and ringworm infection.
Anti-inflammatory Reduces inflammation and pain.
Antioxidant – lemon grass contains essential oil citral which is an antioxidant that helps in lowering increased cholesterol. Protects cell from oxidative stress and damage.
Digestion – It alleviate digestion problems.
Hypertension – Lemon grass is also helpful in lowering Blood pressure as it helps in increasing urine output.
Stress relief – used in Aromatherapy to reduce stress.
Both Ayurvedic and modern view have suggested lemon grass for its digestive, Anti-inflammatory properties. Ayurveda emphasize its role in Detoxification, balancing doshas while modern highlights its antimicrobial benefits and use in Aromatherapy.
How to make lemon grass tea:
Add Lemon grass leaves to boiling water then add sunth , Tulsi , ginger ,Mint and cinnamon as per need.
Caution : Should be avoided in Pregnancy , Acidity and in bleeding disorder ; Or consult a doctor before use.
Beauty:
- First, add a few drops of essential oil of lemongrass to a bucket of water, or alternatively, boil a few lemongrass leaves in a glass of water. Then, pour this mixture into your bathwater. This practice effectively removes bad body odor and naturally cleanses the body. Additionally, the refreshing aroma of lemongrass enhances our inner beauty.
Mind:
- This antidepressant essence has a calming effect, helping to release stress and anxiety. Furthermore, its citrusy smell uplifts the mood, which is why it is now commonly used in aromatherapy and spas. Additionally, using its oil in a diffuser creates a pleasant ambiance, removes negative energy, and aids in meditation and spiritual practices.
Research and studies on lemon grass:
Various studies have been done on lemon grass which shows that it exhibit antibacterial activity on staphylococcus aureus and E.coli.
How to grow lemon Grass:
Purchase fresh lemongrass stalks from a grocery store or nursery. Look for stalks that are green, firm, and have a bit of the root base intact. Trim the tops of the stalks, leaving about 6-8 inches. Place the stalks in a glass or jar with about 2 inches of water. Ensure the root base is submerged .Choose a large pot with good drainage. Water thoroughly after planting and keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Lemongrass thrives in full sun, needing at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Trim the tops of the plants periodically to encourage bushier growth. Remove any dead or yellowing leaves to maintain plant health.
Traditional Lemon grass recipes:
- Lemon grass with ginger Both lemon grass and ginger have Anti-inflammatory and enhancing digestive fire properties. It can be used in combination for making tea and soup.
- Lemon grass with Turmeric .Both lemon grass and turmeric have Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. When combined enhances immune system and reduces inflammation. It can be used as tea or mixed in soups.
- Lemon grass with Mint when infused in water both have refreshing and cooling properties . You can have refreshing drink.
- Lemon grass cinnamon when brewed together helps in lowering blood sugar.
- Lemon grass with Tulsi when brewed together helps to reduce stress.
Thus integrative approach not only helps us to understand Ayurvedic aspects but also make us understand the modern science. Thus offering holistic way for better health.
Precautions and contradiction while using Lemon grass :
People with allergic reactions should use patch test before using Lemon grass.Taking large amount of lemon grass can cause stomach upset. Person having diabetes should be bit cautious as it can lower blood sugar levels. Evidence have been found that lemon grass can slow down blood clotting.
Pregnant and breastfeeding women , people with allergies, diabetes, individual with Liver issues should avoid it.
To conclude lemon grass do have numerous health benefits and is safe when used properly. consulting health care provider is still advisable.