Native to Asian countries, Lemongrass is a perennial plant with thin, long leaves. Although lemongrass smells like lemon, it tastes milder and sweeter. Nutritionally, lemongrass is a good source of vitamins A and C, folate, folic acid, magnesium, zinc, copper, iron, potassium, phosphorus, calcium and manganese. It also has minute traces of B vitamins. Not only does it have wide culinary usage owing to its rich flavour, lemongrass is useful in remedies for a wide range of ailments.
1. Helps Digestion :
Lemongrass promotes healthy digestion as the antiseptic compounds of Lemongrass effectively kill bad bacteria and parasites that exist in the digestive tract and repopulate the good bacteria in the colon. Its antimicrobial properties help relieve gastroenteritis. A daily cup of Lemongrass tea works wonders for the digestive track.
2. Controls Cholesterol Levels :
A study done in University of Wisconsin 1989 found that people with daily consumption of lemongrass oil noticed reduction in cholesterol levels and a significant decrease in blood fats. The anti-cholesterol and anti-atherosclerosis action of lemongrass helps reduce the absorption of cholesterol from the intestine.
3. Cleanses and detoxifies :
Lemongrass helps remove toxins, uric acid and bad cholesterol from the body by increasing the frequency and quantity of urination and also helps improving blood circulation.
4. Helps fight cold and flu :
Antibacterial and antifungal properties of lemongrass help your body cope with coughs, fever and other cold and flu symptoms. Its vitamin C rich nature boosts your immune system to fight the infection.
5. Known to fights Cancer :
The several antioxidant properties in lemongrass help in lowering risk of cancer by fighting free radicals.
6. Reduces Arthritis Pain :
The pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties of lemongrass help treat arthritis, rheumatism, osteoarthritis, gout and other types of joint pain. Enjoy the benefits of lemongrass in various different foods. Add it to your stir fry, curry paste, soup or stews. You can even make refreshing lemongrass coolers to beat the heat or simply add to your evening tea.
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