Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus): A Medicinal and Aromatic Grass
Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus): Traditional Uses and Therapeutic Potential
Lemongrass is a tropical perennial grass which belongs to the family Poaceae. Cymbopogon citratus (DC) Stapf. Commonly known as lemongrass. Lemongrass is a medicinal plant. Lemongrass is also called as sweet rush. Lemongrass is also known as citronella grass. Lemongrass is a grass with a lemony scent. Lemongrass has a fresh, lemony aroma, and citrus flavor. Lemongrass is grey green coloured grass which has many species. Cymbopogon citratus is comprising approximately 500 genus and 8000 herb species. Some synnomys of lemongrasses are Cymbopogon citratus, Bhutik, Chatra, Bhutrik, Agni ghass, Hari chai, Melissa grass etc. Lemongrass is an herb that is grows in many countries around the World like Asia, Austrilia, and Africa. Lemongrass grows in dense clumps that can grow to 6 ft in height and about 4 ft in width.
Lemongrass has been cultivated over many years for medicinal purposes in different countries throughout the World. Lemongrass is cultivated as medicinal and culinary purposes. Lemongrass is used to produce lemongrass oil and making tea. Lemongrass tea is beneficial to fight against free radicals and reduce the inflammation in the body. Lemongrass is commonly applied directly to the skin. The use of lemongrass was found in folk remedy for coughs, consumption, malaria, opthalmia, pneumonia etc. Lemongrass also contains substances that are though to relieve pain and swelling, reduce fever, improve levels of sugar and cholesterol in the blood. Lemongrass leaves and oil are used to make medicine. Lemongrass is also used for treating digestive tract spasms, stomachache, high blood pressure, pain, common cold, and exhaustion. Lemongrass contains several antioxidants. Lemongrass has a antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Lemongrass is recommended abdominal pain, diarrhea, gas, constipation, vomiting, fever, chills, headache, and other types of pain. Lemongrass is also used as aromatherapy. The principle chemical constituents of lemongrasses are citronella, and geraniol. Lemongrass oil is used to making antiseptic soap and preparations of hair shampoos.
