Lemongrass and its benefits!

Also known a Fever grass, Lemongrass, is a perennial plant with thin, long leaves. This plant is indigenous to many Asian countries. Holding true to its name, Lemongrass actually smells like lemon, however, it tastes milder and sweeter. Its potent flavor allows it to be used as a flavoring agent in various Asian cuisines. 
The nutritional value of Lemongrass is quite high. It is a good source of vitamins A and C, folate, folic acid, magnesium, zinc, copper, iron, potassium, phosphorus, calcium, and manganese. It also has traces of vitamin B.
Lemon is mainly used for culinary purposes. However, it is also very useful for alternative/complementary remedies for a wide range of ailments. Lemongrass tea is most often used in home remedies for various health issues. Lemongrass benefits are many! Have a look at this blog to know more!

Benefits of Lemongrass

1. Cleansing and Detoxification 
Lemongrass helps in cleansing and flushing harmful toxic wastes out of the body. This is due to its diuretic properties. The increase in the quantity and frequency of urination is helped by the diuretic effect of lemongrass.  This, in turn, which helps in maintaining digestive health, eliminating accrued fats and maintaining a clean system.

2. Controls cholesterol levels 
The anti-cholesterol and anti-atherosclerosis action of lemongrass helps reduce the absorption of cholesterol from the intestine. It also helps in the oxidation of LDL- cholesterol in the blood, which in turn helps prevents atherosclerotic plaque build-up. The high potassium content in lemongrass also helps lower and regulate blood pressure.

Drink a cup of lemongrass tea every day to help lower your cholesterol level and reduce blood pressure.
3. Fights cancer 
Lemongrass is effective in treating various types of cancer without affecting the healthy normal cells of the body. Citral found in Lemongrass causes apoptosis in cancer cells. Apoptosis causes cancer cells to commit suicide.   
There are several other antioxidant properties in Lemongrass that lower the risk of cancer by fighting free radicals.

4. Reduces arthritis pain 
Due to its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties, lemongrass helps treat arthritis, rheumatism, osteoarthritis, gout and other types of joint pain. It suppresses the activity of cyclooxygenase-2, an enzyme involved in inflammation that causes pain, especially in joints. Lemongrass helps alleviate muscle spasms by relaxing the muscles, which reduces the pain-related symptoms.

Mix Lemongrass oil with coconut oil in a 1:2 ratio. Rub it over the affected area. Leave it on for few hours and then rinse it off. Repeat this daily for a few weeks.
5.  Type -1/2 diabetes treatment 
Lemongrass has proved to be beneficial in treating Type-2 and Type-1  diabetes. Optimum levels of insulin are maintained and the tolerance of glucose in the body is increased due to the presence of citral.

6.  Aches 
It helps in alleviating the pain and discomfort caused by headaches and migraines due to its analgesic properties. The blood circulation is greatly improved by the phytonutrients. The phytonutrients also help in relieving spasms, muscle cramps, sprains, and backaches.  It is valuable in treating sports wounds, including dislocations, internal injuries, and bruises.

7. Prevents nervous disorders 
Lemongrass has been proven to be a tonic for the nervous system. The mind is stimulated with Lemongrass. It also helps in combating nervousness, neuronal disorders, convulsions etc.. It is used in therapeutic baths, which in assist calming the nerves and also cures the symptoms of anxiety and fatigue caused by stress.
8. Cures edema 
It is very effective in curing the condition of water retention or edema. It has a cleansing effect on lymphatic congestion and helps to soothe the swelling.

9.  Infections 
Due to its antimicrobial and antifungal properties, Lemongrass works wonderfully as an antiseptic. Due to this, it is also highly effective in treating infections such as Athlete’s foot, ringworms and urinary tract infections. Dermatological infections are healed with Lemongrass. 
A study provided supporting evidence that demonstrated the efficacy of lemongrass over thyme, patchouli, and cedarwood oil in the treatment of various diseases such as oral or vaginal candidiasis.
10. Helps in digestion 
It has antiseptic compounds that effectively kill bad bacteria and parasites in the digestive tract. Good bacteria is repopulated in the colon. It helps treat digestive health problems like indigestion, constipation, heartburn, bloating etc. However, it is not recommended for small children.
11. Obesity 
Abdominal fat is prevented from accumulating. The use of stored energy is promoted. It helps in preventing diet-induced weight gain and also aids in healthy metabolism and enhances the fatty acids in the body.

It helps in restoring the vital systems which are operational in the body, including digestion, respiration, excretion and nervous system. This assists in the better absorption of nutrients and strengthens the immune defense mechanism of the body.
So, you now have managed to learn a hell lot about the benefits of Lemongrass. Next time you have an issue, you might want to give Lemongrass a try! Let us know what you think about Lemongrass and whether it is truly beneficial or not.