Lemongrass is a tropical herb that belongs to the grass family. It has a citrusy flavor and aroma that makes it a popular ingredient in many cuisines, especially in Southeast Asia. Lemongrass is also widely used for its medicinal properties, as it has many benefits for your health and well-being.
History and Cultural Uses of Lemongrass
Lemongrass is native to India and Sri Lanka, where it has been cultivated for thousands of years. It was also introduced to other parts of Asia, Africa, and South America by traders and travelers. Lemongrass is known by different names in different languages, such as citronella, serai, sereh, or zacate limon.
While you will see it in many Asian inspired dishes, it is not only a culinary herb, but also a medicinal one. It has been used in traditional medicine for various ailments, such as fever, colds, coughs, headaches, digestive problems, infections, inflammation, pain, and stress. Lemongrass is also valued for its antibacterial, antifungal, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiseptic properties.
It is often added to perfumes, candles, soaps, lotions, and other products to give them a pleasant scent. A place we often see it is in aromatherapy settings as it can help relax your mind and body.
Health Benefits of Lemongrass
Lemongrass has many health benefits that are backed by scientific research. Here are some of them:
Blood Pressure and Cholesterol Level
A study found that drinking lemongrass tea daily for 30 days reduced systolic and diastolic blood pressure and total cholesterol in people with hypertension. Keep in mind that all herbs interact with people’s individual biology differently. And the use of herbs, in food or in your herbal drinks, often take time to provide their full benefit.
Help Boost Your Immune System
A study found that lemongrass oil inhibited the growth of several bacteria and fungi that cause diseases. Another study found that lemongrass extract enhanced the activity of natural killer cells that kill cancer cells.
Reduce Inflammation and Pain
A study found that lemongrass oil reduced inflammation and pain in rats with arthritis. Another study found that lemongrass oil reduced pain intensity and duration in people with primary dysmenorrhea (painful periods).
Improve Your Digestion and Gut Health
A study found that lemongrass oil improved gastric motility (the movement of food through your stomach) and reduced gastric ulcers in rats. Another study found that lemongrass oil prevented the growth of Helicobacter pylori (a bacteria that causes stomach infections) in human gastric cells.
Relieve Stress and Anxiety
A study found that inhaling lemongrass oil reduced anxiety levels and increased calmness in healthy volunteers. Another study found that lemongrass oil improved sleep quality and mood in people with insomnia.
How to Make Lemongrass Tea
Making lemongrass tea is simple and easy. All you need is fresh or dried lemongrass, water, and a pot or kettle. Here are the steps to follow:
- Wash and chop the lemongrass into small pieces. You can use the whole stalk or just the lower part, which has more flavor. You can also peel off the outer layer if it is too tough or dirty.
- Boil some water in a pot or kettle. You can use about 4 cups of water for 1 cup of lemongrass.
- Add the lemongrass to the boiling water and reduce the heat. Let it simmer for about 15 to 20 minutes, or until the water turns yellowish-green and has a strong aroma.
- Strain the tea into a cup or a pitcher. You can discard the lemongrass or reuse it for another batch.
Enjoy your lemongrass tea hot or cold. You can add honey, lemon, ginger, mint, or other ingredients to enhance the flavor. We like to pair it with a few stronger herbs like the mint family.
Options
When it comes to picking the right tea for the right moment, it is really up to your preferences.
For a great bedtime tea filled with lemongrass, or a tea for a moment of stress and anxiety, try our Cozy Chamomile. It’s formulated with powerful herbs to help with mental stress.
Precaution
When drinking herbal tea for anxiety or stress, it's important to remember that it's not a substitute for professional help. If you're struggling with mental health issues, it's important to seek help from a qualified healthcare provider. Herbal tea can be a supportive addition to your treatment plan, but it's not a replacement for professional care.
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