Lemongrass (Cymbopogon) Powder

Health Benefits of Lemongrass

1. May Streamline Digestion

Lemongrass tea has long been a staple of Indian and traditional Asian medicine. It is frequently prescribed as a digestive aid since it works as a natural diuretic. Lemongrass tea may help lessen the symptoms of gastric upset including nausea and stomach pain. Lemongrass also boast antifungal and antibacterial properties that may help prevent infection that can harm digestion thanks to the presence of polyphenols and antioxidants.

A study published in the Journal of Young Pharmacists examined the effects of lemongrass tea on digestion. Researchers found that lemongrass tea leaves have protective effects against gastric ulcers and stomach issues caused by aspirin and absolute ethanol. The study was performed on mice and more research is needed to provide conclusive evidence of lemongrass tea protective benefits in humans. Anti-inflammatory properties may also help soothe stomach aches by decreasing inflammation.

2. Weight Loss Aid

Lemongrass tea benefits may also help you lose weight faster. Lemongrass tea may help you lose weight faster by boosting metabolism and replacing calorie-laden sugary drinks. Medical research on lemongrass tea is still ongoing and has had mixed results. However, by replacing sugary drinks such as soda and juice with lemongrass tea, you can cut back on calories and reach your weight loss goals faster.

Lemongrass has also historically been used as a diuretic. Drinking lemongrass tea helps rid your body of excess wastes and can help speed up metabolism. Drinking the tea alone won’t result in massive weight loss. Instead, add a detox lemongrass tea to a healthy diet and workout plan.

3. It’s Packed With Antioxidants

Lemongrass tea is an herbal tea that is chock full of antioxidants. These antioxidants help eliminate free radicals that can cause serious health issues. Free radicals cause oxidative stress in the body, which essentially causes cells and natural processes to break down. Free radicals have been linked to certain types of cancers as well as premature aging.

The antioxidant properties of these tea leaves may also help prevent the growth of certain cancer cells. The Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center states that lab tests have shown lemongrass to inhibit the growth of cancers. It’s important to note that these lab tests have been conducted on animals and not humans. Most researchers attribute these potential health benefits to the citral, geranial, and cholorogenic acid present in lemongrass stalks and leaves.

4. May Lower Blood Pressure

Lemongrass tea may lower blood pressure by reducing inflammation and inducing relaxation. Studies are still ongoing, but existing research gives reason to believe lemongrass tea may be beneficial for people with high blood pressure.

A study published in medical Forum Monthly examined the effects of lemongrass tea on high blood pressure in mice. The study gave 72 human participants either green tea or lemongrass tea, which they were to drink daily. At the conclusion of the study, researchers found that the individuals who drank lemongrass tea experienced a moderate decrease in blood pressure. They also showed significantly reduced heart rate and increased relaxation.

5. May Protect Heart Health

One of the leading killers of Americans is heart disease. Lemongrass tea helps protect heart health and prevent serious heart disease such as heart attack and blood clot. Lemongrass tea contains anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce inflammation in blood vessels and arteries. This allows blood cells to travel more easily and lowers the risk of platelet buildup that causes blood clots.

An animal study published in the Journal of Advanced Pharmaceutical Technology & Research examined the impacts of lemongrass essential oil on markers of heart health in mice. Researchers found that intake of lemongrass resulted in lower overall cholesterol levels. High LDL cholesterol has long been a marker of heart disease. By reducing cholesterol, lemongrass tea may boost heart health and stave off serious illness.

6. Boosts Immune Health

Lemongrass helps boost the immune system since it’s packed with vitamins and minerals that help fend off the common cold and flu. Lemongrass tea contains high amounts of vitamin C and vitamin A, both of which help boost immunity. Lemongrass is such a popular immune health aid, it can be found in the health section of many natural food stores. It’s also frequently found in cough drops and other immune aids in regular grocery stores and health food stores.

Brew up a cup of hot tea using lemongrass to help soothe a sore throat. The anti-inflammatory properties of lemongrass help to decrease inflammation and soothe irritation in the lining of the throat.