Lemongrass is an herb that resembles grass and has a lemony aroma and taste. Its versatile properties are popular and useful worldwide. For instance, southeast Asian cooking commonly calls for lemongrass and places such as India use it as a medicinal herb. The benefits of lemongrass don't stop there.
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Lemongrass is a tropical plant with long, slender leaves that was originally native to southeast Asia. However, it is now grown around the world. The blades can grow up to 5 feet (1.5 meters) tall, and an essential oil consisting mainly of citral can be extracted from the leaves. This essential oil or the whole leaves are often used for culinary or medicinal purposes.
Health Benefits
Lemongrass has anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties. For instance, ingesting lemon grass may protect the digestive tract from infections or food poisoning. This herb also has anti-pyretic and anti-mutagenic properties, which will reduce fevers and reverse chemically induced mutations respectively. Herbal mixes containing lemongrass may also promote digestion of fats; relieve menstrual troubles, muscle spasms, insomnia or nausea; act as a painkiller; reduce the effects of jet lag; provide a calming anti-stress effect; detoxify the body through increased urination; stimulate blood circulation; and cool the body in the summer through stimulated perspiration. Used externally, lemongrass may help treat ringworm, athlete's foot, arthritis, dandruff and oily skin conditions.
Culinary Uses
Vietnamese, Malaysian, Thai and other southeast Asian cooking often use lemongrass in poultry and fish dishes. It adds a distinct citrus-like taste. The leaves are finely chopped or ground to release the flavor and to aid in the digestion of the coarse leaves. Lemongrass teas are also popular and sometimes used for dieting. Since lemongrass has a higher content of citral (a compound with strong lemon-like properties) in its essential oil than actual lemon, lemongrass extract can be found in products such as candies, baked goods and alcoholic beverages.
Other Benefits and Uses
Lemongrass has an assortment of other uses and benefits. It works as an insect repellent under the name of citronella in bug sprays and candles to ward off mosquitoes, biting flies and fleas. Lemongrass can also be found in other candles, incense, massage oils, perfumes, soaps and detergents. Its essential oil is often used in aromatherapy to relieve stress and promote well-being.
Precaution
The FDA has not fully investigated the health benefits of lemongrass, so use precaution. The essential oil may cause skin rashes when used on the skin directly or when consumed as a tea. Pregnant women and young children should avoid using lemongrass internally as the long-term effects of the herb are unknown.
Tags: Asian cooking, benefits lemongrass, often used, southeast Asian, southeast Asian cooking