9 Lemongrass Benefits: Tea and Essential Oil

Lemongrass is an edible herb that may have gut, immune, and mental health benefits.

Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) is native to parts of Asia and is often used as a flavor ingredient in curries, soups, and other dishes. It is also consumed as tea and is sometimes used in aromatherapy.

Potential Health Benefits

Some research suggests that lemongrass may be able to help with certain ailments, like fever, inflammation, and digestive issues. While more scientific evidence is needed before lemongrass can be broadly recommended as a treatment, there are several promising medicinal benefits that the plant may be able to offer:

1. Decreases Inflammation

Lemongrass contains compounds called citral and geranial, which may stop the release of certain inflammation-causing chemicals that can lead to various health conditions and diseases. Some studies have also found that citral may also help reduce oxidative stress in immune cells.

2. Boosts Heart Health

Recent research on lemongrass has found it may potentially play a role in promoting heart health.

One study found that lemongrass might protect against hypertension (high blood pressure). Others suggest that lemongrass could reduce the risk of heart disease and lower low-density lipoprotein (LDL) or “bad” cholesterol levels.

3. Fights Germs

The antimicrobial properties of lemongrass may help fight off various disease-causing microbes, including bacterial oral infections that may lead to cavities or other mouth issues.

When used topically, studies have shown that lemongrass may be beneficial in helping fungal infections caused by Candida (a common type of yeast).

4. Supports Digestion

Anecdotally, lemongrass has been used a remedy for an upset stomach, including cramps and vomiting. Studies have also found that lemongrass acts against Escherichia coli (E. coli), a bacterial infection that can cause food poisoning from contaminated foods.

Other research done on animals found that lemongrass essential oil may help protect the stomach lining against gastric ulcers.

5. May Fight Cancer

Certain components naturally found in lemongrass may help protect against some types of cancer by boosting the immune system or killing off cancer cells.

While this research is promising, if you have a serious health condition like cancer, it’s best to always check with a healthcare provider before adding any natural remedies to your routine.

6. Promotes Healthy Metabolism

Lemongrass is a popular ingredient in beverages like detox teas and may be helpful in weight loss and metabolism-boosting. Research does show that the plant is a natural diuretic (reduces fluid buildup), but more studies are needed on these specific properties before it can be widely recommended for this purpose.

7. Relieves Pain and Reduces Fever

Natural chemicals in lemongrass have soothing and anti-inflammatory benefits and may help relieve pain and swelling. Lemongrass extract has been used traditionally as a fever reducer.

However, there haven’t been many studies dedicated to proving its effectiveness for this use, and it’s unclear how or if lemongrass might compare to over-the-counter remedies for pain and fever.

8. Reduces Dandruff

Some initial research points to lemongrass essential oil having dandruff-reducing properties. Experts think this may be due to the herb’s ability to cut down on the growth of a fungus linked to dandruff, but more research is needed.

9. Decreases Anxiety

The fresh, clean scent of lemongrass has long been used in products like candles, soaps, disinfectants, and insect repellants. Studies have found that the aroma of lemongrass can help reduce anxiety and tension.

How to Use

One of dozens in the Cymbopogon species, lemongrass can be modified for human use and consumption in the following forms:

• Taken orally (by mouth) in beverages or food as a fresh or dried herb
• Applied topically (to the skin) as a lotion or salve
• Inhaled for aromatherapy purposes as an essential oil

Lemongrass is a common flavor ingredient in herbal teas, soups, and other dishes. It’s also been used in traditional medicine as a home remedy for various ailments involving digestion, fevers, the nervous system, and more.

Additionally, the plant has served as a key fragrance ingredient, both for therapeutic purposes and as an insect repellent.

How to Make Lemongrass Tea

Lemongrass can be purchased fresh from many supermarkets. To brew tea from the stalks:

• Cut one or two stalks into 1- to 2-inch pieces.
• Pour boiling water over the pieces and let steep for five minutes.
• Strain and serve.

Side Effects and Interactions

Lemongrass is considered to be generally safe for most people. That said, there are some potential side effects and interactions to consider when using lemongrass orally, topically, or therapeutically. 

When used topically, lemongrass can cause skin irritation. Apply it with a carrier oil, and do a spot test of a small area of skin before using it generously. Many essential oils have the potential to prompt allergic contact dermatitis (a common skin reaction).

In addition, consuming large amounts of the plant extract has also been known to cause side effects such as:

When repeatedly consumed in high amounts, lemongrass could eventually cause liver, stomach, or kidney function damage.

Pregnant people are urged to avoid ingesting lemongrass unless otherwise directed by their healthcare provider, as some research has suggested that certain compounds present in the essential oil may be toxic to a growing fetus.

Summary

Lemongrass has traditionally been used in cuisine, teas, topicals, and essential oils as a potential remedy for minor ailments. Research is starting to back up some of these anecdotal claims, with studies pointing to the plant’s anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and cancer-fighting properties, among others. Lemongrass may also help with digestive issues, relieve pain, reduce fever, ease anxiety, and more.

While lemongrass may be generally safe for most healthy adults, some people may experience an allergic reaction or side effects such as dizziness or dry mouth. Always check with a healthcare provider before using any natural remedies like lemongrass.