Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus)

About Ingredient

Lemongrass is native to Sri Lanka and South India, and is now widely cultivated in the tropical areas of America and Asia. The plant is used as a fragrance and flavoring agent.

Medicinal Claims / Health Benefits

In folk medicine Lemongrass is used as an antispasmodic, hypotensive, anticonvulsant, analgesic, antiemetic, antitussive, antirheumatic, antiseptic and treatment for nervous and gastrointestinal disorders and fevers. The plant is also used as an antibacterial, antifungal, antiantidiarrhea, anti inflammatory, antidiabetic and antioxidant, but the mode of action for the different bioactivities have not been studied in detail. Cymbopogon citratus contains various phyto constituents such as flavonoids and phenolic compounds, terpenoids and essential oils, which may be responsible for the different biological activities.

Possible Side Effects / Allergies etc.

Lemongrass is likely safe for most people when used in food amounts. It is possibly safe when taken by mouth or applied to the skin short-term for medicinal purposes. Excessive and improper use of lemongrass can lead to allergic reactions in certain people.

Pregnancy and breast-feeding: It is likely unsafe to take lemongrass by mouth during pregnancy. Lemongrass seems to be able to start menstrual flow, so there is a concern that it might cause a miscarriage.There is not enough reliable information about the safety of taking lemongrass if you are pregnant or breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.