Lemongrass

Lemongrass can be used in culinary applications for flavor, such as in soups and curries, and medicinally in teas for its potential digestive, anti-anxiety, and antimicrobial properties.It may also help with reducing cholesterol and blood pressure, and its essential oil is sometimes used for topical applications like wound care or treating yeast infections when diluted properly.  

Culinary uses

Soups and curries:Add bruised stalks to soups, curries, and other dishes for a citrusy flavor. Remove the stalk before serving. 

Rice and skewers:Use whole stalks in rice dishes or tie them up to use as fragrant skewers for chicken or prawns. 

Pounded paste:Pound the stems and add them to stuffings or minced meat preparations. 

Teas:Brew lemongrass tea from fresh or dried stalks to add a lemony essence to any tea. 

Infusions:Infuse oils for salad dressings or other desserts. 

Potential medicinal and health uses

Digestive aid:

Lemongrass is a natural carminative that may help reduce bloating and flatulence.It is also believed to stimulate digestive enzymes. 

Anxiety relief:

The aroma and tea from lemongrass may have anxiety-reducing properties. 

Antimicrobial properties:

The herb contains compounds that have demonstrated antibacterial and antifungal properties.This may help with oral infections, such as tooth decay, and potentially reduce thrush. 

Cholesterol and blood pressure:

Some research suggests lemongrass extracts may help lower bad LDL cholesterol and have a mild diuretic effect, which could help reduce high blood pressure by lowering fluid retention. 

Wound and skin care:

Lemongrass essential oil, when properly diluted, can be applied to the skin to treat minor wounds or yeast infections.A warm, steeped lemongrass tea cloth can also be used as a compress. 

Important considerations

Consult a doctor:

Always speak with a healthcare professional before using lemongrass for medical purposes, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions. 

Essential oil safety:

When using lemongrass essential oil topically, dilute it with a carrier oil (like coconut or jojoba oil) and avoid sun exposure for at least 6 hours afterward to prevent skin irritation. 

Traditional remedy:

Many of the potential medicinal benefits of lemongrass are based on traditional use and are supported by preliminary scientific studies.More research is needed to confirm many of these effects.