Natural is the need of the hour. Tons of chemicals and supplements have already flooded the market. But have you wondered how it was back then?
Problems existed but not chemical solutions. Still, people managed to find a solution in the lap of mother nature. Everything naturally existing has a use.
The difference is some of them are explored and others are still a mystery. Advancements and chemicals have revolutionised medicine. The problem is anything and everything sold in the name of a solution.
Wrong and fake products have caused so much damage. A hectic lifestyle adds to the problem. This is the reason for the trend shift again towards nature.
One such gem that emerged in the process is lemongrass tea. In this article, we will try to find out some important details about it.
What Is Lemongrass?
Cymbopogon, better known as lemongrass, is a plant majorly native to the Asian subcontinent. It is grass with thin wire-like silky strands.
As the name suggests, its flavour and aroma resemble lemon. It is citrus with a tint of mint. A complete bliss of freshness! It is commonly found in Asia, Africa and Australia.
Countries that initially were rich in lemongrass treasury are Sri Lanka and South India. Later, its cultivation started across the globe. It is a herb with traditional importance[1] in medicine.
It has been used for ages for treating fever, cold, cough and several other problems and is available in powder form, oils and fresh stalks also.
Lemongrass can be inhaled through aromatherapy. It is claimed that lemongrass oil can treat dandruff. Its fresh stalks can be chopped and added to noodles and soups. It adds the perfect flavour to food.
Out of the multiple uses, one of its use is as a herbal tea flavouring agent. Yes, that tea is your much-awaited lemongrass tea.
Benefits Of Lemongrass Tea
Before using anything, you should know it well. After all, health is wealth. Since you are done reading the basic information, let’s roll on to the most essential part: its benefits.
Rich In Antioxidants
Antioxidants are crucial for humans to fight free radicals. These are produced by the body. Still, to get enough of them, they are taken through the dietary method.
The good news is sipping some flavourful lemongrass tea may provide you with antioxidants. The herb is rich in antioxidants like chlorogenic acid, swertiajaponin andisoorientin.
The findings of this study[2] suggest that there is a presence of powerful antioxidants in lemongrass tea.
May Relieve Anxiety
Stress and anxiety are common issues. Lemongrass tea may help combat both. Recent research[3] suggests that lemongrass tea may play a crucial role in relieving symptoms of anxiety.
It might be your much-needed stress buster. However, enough evidence is not there and studies should be more dynamic to find out about its potential role.
Packed With Anti-Inflammatories
Inflammation has been a cause of fatal health conditions. From daily discomfort to a stroke, it covers it all. Luckily some compounds have anti-inflammatory properties.
According to research[4], lemongrass essential oil contains citral, a compound which is said to inhibit inflammation. The research also concluded that lemongrass essential oil could also aid in the treatment of skin inflammation.
May Reduce The Risk Of Cancer
Cancer is more common than you think. Its treatment is exhausting and the pain is unmatchable. Though you can never be certain, always try to prevent it.
One such initiative can be lemongrass tea. Citral present in lemongrass may help in the prevention[5] and treatment of cancer. It works either by killing the affected cell or strengthening immunity.
According to some people, lemongrass tea is a part of adjuvant therapy during chemo sessions.
Role In Preventing Infections
Along with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, lemongrass tea also has antibacterial properties. It may prevent oral infections and cavities.
Additionally, it may prevent fungal infections[6] like thrush. It is common in people with weak immunity. Lemongrass tea might be your counterattack to infections.
Might Help In Weight Loss
Why limit the role of weight loss companion to energy drinks, when there’s tea? Drinking lemongrass tea may boost metabolism. It detoxifies the body and you may witness shedding some pounds.
However, it should be considered an alternative to sweetened drinks to break the monotony. Drinking excess or regularly may cause harm.
The citral content of lemongrass could lead to suppressing abdominal fat and also improves the glucose tolerance in your body, as concluded by this study[7].
Also, drinking tea alone won’t help. However, if you are already following your diet and exercising, you are likely to get some benefits.
Potential Diuretic
Diuretics are given to eliminate excess sodium and fluid through urine. It makes you urinate often. People with a medical history of heart, liver failure or oedema are prescribed diuretics.
Lemongrass tea is a natural one. It was given to rats in one recent study. The findings suggested[8] its role as a diuretic which doesn not cause harm to the organs.
May Lower Bad Cholesterol
Lemongrass tea may help bring down high levels of cholesterol. This cholesterol can otherwise lead to a heart attack. A study[9] was performed using lemongrass essential oil extract.
It helped to lower cholesterol in animals. Although the study involved the use of oil extract, tea might also help. It might also increase RBC and lower the risk of anaemia[10].
May Relieve Symptoms Of Premenstrual Syndrome
A majority of women experience cramps and bloating during and around periods. Lemongrass tea may help reduce these symptoms. A lack of studies leads to a shortage of evidence.
However, it is well known that lemongrass has anti-inflammatory properties. It also lowers body temperature which can be useful for women at the time of the month.
Good For Your Gut
Healthy digestion is as vital as nutrition. Several problems like upset stomach, cramps and digestive disorders are hurdles in the process.
A study[11] suggests lemongrass tea may prevent gastric ulcers. It may also protect the inner lining of the stomach from the action of aspirin and ethanol.
Both of these are a big reason for gastric ulcers.
May Lower High Blood Pressure
High systolic pressure can be dangerous. A study involving men given lemongrass tea highlighted that lemongrass tea lowered high systolic pressure.
However it also slightly increased the diastolic pressure. Moreover, the heart rate also decreased. Remember, no matter how exciting it sounds, if you have heart problems, consult your physician before consuming lemongrass tea.
Other Benefits
Lemongrass tea has also been used for other health issues besides the above-stated reasons. Anecdotal evidence suggests[6] that it may treat fungal infections and skin inflammation. It is also used to boost immunity in several parts of the world.
It may prevent –
- Cold
- Cough
- Fever
- Pain
- Swelling
- Vomiting
- Diabetes
- Fatigue
- Sleep
How To Prepare Lemongrass Tea?
After knowing its amazing benefits, you must be excited to explore the recipe. Let’s dive straight into it.
- You will need some water and lemongrass stalks/ powder.
- Measure a cup of water. Pour it into a container and bring it to a boil.
- Add freshly chopped stalks to it. Leave it undisturbed for 5 minutes.
- Strain the liquid into a cup.
- Enjoy your hot and flavourful lemongrass tea.
If you are an ice tea fan, just grab some ice cubes. Let the tea cool down a bit. Add the cubes and enjoy. The citrus flavour will leave your mouth refreshed and your mind soothed.
Dosage Of Lemongrass Tea
Start by using no more than 1 cup a day. Trying to reap maximum benefits is fine. But overuse of anything is dangerous. Always start slowly by drinking 1 cup a day.
You can also try it on alternative days instead of sugary drinks. If your body allows more, gradually increase its intake. Take no more than 3 cups a day. If you are prone to acid reflux, stick to fewer amounts only.
After preparing the tea, it is safe to use it within 24 hours. You can reserve it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Talking about time, it is fine to be taken at any time of the day.
In the morning it provides freshness and at night it promotes sound sleep. It is safe on an empty stomach as it detoxifies your body. It is also considered safe in the long run.
However, in case of side effects or uneasiness, avoid its use. For better advice, turn to your health care advisor.
Lemongrass Tea Side Effects
It is normally safe to consume this tea. It has very few side effects. Although some possible side effects are –
- Allergic reaction
- Dizziness
- Increased hunger
- Rash
- Fatigue
- Dry mouth
- Itching
- Frequent urination
- Increased heart rate
Precautions
You should avoid it if you-
- are pregnant,
- breastfeeding,
- are taking liver medications,
- have diabetes,
- are low on potassium,
- take diuretics,
- have a low heart rate.
Even though it is safe, it is better to consult your doctor to know the possible repercussions. In case of allergies or medical interactions, you should avoid them.
Consume no more than what your doctor advices to ensure safety.
Conclusion
Lemongrass is a herb with multiple benefits. It is consumed orally, inhaled and even applied to the skin.
One of the ways to use lemongrass is by brewing tea. The tea offers healthy sips of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
On top of it, it boosts immunity and lowers bp and high cholesterol. You may also shed some fruitful pounds in the process. Although tea is generally a safe tea to consume, taking precautions is important.
Do not overuse it. Avoid it in case of allergies and specific medications. Always seek some advice from a medical expert before using it. After you get the green flag, enjoy healthy sipping!
References/Sources
Working4Health prefers using primary and verified references. We have strict sourcing guidelines and our primary references include peer-reviewed research, academic, and medical institution studies.
- Gagan Shah, Richa Shri, Vivek Panchal, et al. Scientific basis for the therapeutic use of Cymbopogon citratus, stapf (Lemon grass) J Adv Pharm Technol Res. 2011 Jan-Mar; 2(1): 3–8.doi: 10.4103/2231-4040.79796
- Dirlei Diedrich Kieling, Sandra Helena Prudencio Blends of lemongrass derivatives and lime for the preparation of mixed beverages: antioxidant, physicochemical, and sensory properties J Sci Food Agric. 2019 Feb;99(3):1302-1310. doi: 10.1002/jsfa.9305. Epub 2018 Oct 7. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30094839/
- Tiago Costa Goes, Fábio Reis Carvalho Ursulino, Thiago Henrique Almeida-Souza, et al. Effect of Lemongrass Aroma on Experimental Anxiety in Humans J Altern Complement Med. 2015 Dec;21(12):766-73. doi: 10.1089/acm.2015.0099. Epub 2015 Sep 14. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26366471/
- Xuesheng Han and Tory L. Parker Lemongrass (Cymbopogon flexuosus) essential oil demonstrated anti-inflammatory effect in pre-inflamed human dermal fibroblasts Biochim Open. 2017 Jun; 4: 107–111.Published online 2017 Mar 21. doi: 10.1016/j.biopen.2017.03.004
- Ivan Ruvinov, Christopher Nguyen, Benjamin Scaria, et al. Lemongrass Extract Possesses Potent Anticancer Activity Against Human Colon Cancers, Inhibits Tumorigenesis, Enhances Efficacy of FOLFOX, and Reduces Its Adverse Effects Integr Cancer Ther. 2019; 18: 1534735419889150.Published online 2019 Dec 17. doi: 10.1177/1534735419889150
- Mohamed Nadjib Boukhatem, Mohamed Amine Ferhat, Abdelkrim Kameli, et al. Lemon grass (Cymbopogon citratus) essential oil as a potent anti-inflammatory and antifungal drugs Libyan J Med. 2014; 9: 10.3402/ljm.v9.25431.Published online 2014 Sep 19. doi: 10.3402/ljm.v9.25431
- Tamonud Modak and Abhilash Mukhopadhaya Effects of citral, a naturally occurring antiadipogenic molecule, on an energy-intense diet model of obesity Indian J Pharmacol. 2011 May-Jun; 43(3): 300–305.doi: 10.4103/0253-7613.81515
- Christopher E Ekpenyong, Nyebuk E Daniel, Atim B Antai Effect of lemongrass tea consumption on estimated glomerular filtration rate and creatinine clearance rate J Ren Nutr. 2015 Jan;25(1):57-66. doi: 10.1053/j.jrn.2014.08.005. Epub 2014 Oct 16. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25440110/
- C E Elson, G L Underbakke, P Hanson, et al. Impact of lemongrass oil, an essential oil, on serum cholesterol Lipids. 1989 Aug;24(8):677-9. doi: 10.1007/BF02535203. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/2586227/
- Christopher E Ekpenyong, Nyebuk E Daniel, Atim B Antai Bioactive natural constituents from lemongrass tea and erythropoiesis boosting effects: potential use in prevention and treatment of anemia J Med Food. 2015 Jan;18(1):118-27. doi: 10.1089/jmf.2013.0184. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25162916/
- M. Alagawany, M.T. El-Saadony, S.S. Elnesr, et al. Use of lemongrass essential oil as a feed additive in quail’s nutrition: its effect on growth, carcass, blood biochemistry, antioxidant and immunological indices, digestive enzymes and intestinal microbiota Poult Sci. 2021 Jun; 100(6): 101172.Published online 2021 Mar 26. doi: 10.1016/j.psj.2021.101172
- About the Author
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Alisha Matthew has been a practicing nutritionist since 2016. She holds a master’s degree in nutrition from the University of IOWA. She is a staunch believer in improving the human health index by educating people about nutrition and the importance of nutrition in leading a healthy and happy life. Her long-term goal is to keep educating people on general health and keep herself updated with the latest trends in the field of health.