Lemongrass, also known as fever grass, is a type of plant that is perennial in nature with leaves that are long and thin. It is rich in a number of important nutrients and vitamins, including manganese, iron, folic acid and vitamins C and A. In addition to its culinary benefits, it can be used to treat a variety of illnesses.
Origins of Lemongrass
Lemongrass is found naturally in Asia, and as such appears in numerous Asian cuisines. It has a taste and aroma which is potent, and has been compared to lemon although it is a bit sweeter and milder. It is available in dried form and it can also be purchased in the form of an essential oil. Asians enjoy tea and lemongrass is one of the ingredients they will add to it.
Popular Uses of Lemongrass
Aside from beverages and food, lemongrass has a plethora of medicinal benefits. For instance, it is highly effective in the treatment of digestive issues, which are the result of antiseptic compounds that eradicate any parasites or bacteria it comes into contact with, but will not harm good bacteria, allowing it to repopulate the colon. It has been used to treat constipation, diarrhea and vomiting.
Lemongrass is also useful in managing cholesterol levels. It does this by lowering cholesterol absorption within the intestine. It also assists in LDL cholesterol oxidation within the blood, which stops the buildup of atherosclerotic plaque. Lemongrass is rich in potassium, which means it is ideal for reducing and monitoring blood pressure.
Health Benefits of Lemongrass
Lemongrass is prized for its ability to detoxify. This is due to its diuretic nature, which eradicates uric acid and various toxins by maximizing urination quantity and frequency. This in turn helps clear the kidneys. Other specific areas of the body which are cleansed by lemongrass include the pancreas, liver, bladder and kidneys.
For years scientists have searched in vain for a cancer cure, yet research from Ben Gurion University indicates that lemongrass may be capable of fighting it. It has a key ingredient named citral that has been found to produce apoptosis when it comes into contact with cells that are cancerous, while not damaging cells that are healthy. Apoptosis is a fancy term that simply refers to the self-destruction of cancer cells. Lemongrass is also rich and antioxidants which have been found to reduce the likelihood of developing this disease.
A Look at Lemongrass Essential Oils
Like many essential oils, lemongrass has both antifungal and antibacterial characteristics. This means it is ideal for helping you to deal with fever or the flu. Its high vitamin C content means that your immune system can be strengthened to the point you can fight off infection. For those who have breathing troubles, lemongrass is capable of dissolving both phlegm and mucus, meaning it is an excellent remedy for anyone suffering from asthma and bronchitis.