Lemongrass is a plant commonly found in Malaysia, Indonesia and the Philippines, although its origins can be traced back to India. While its uses were originally more ritual in nature, the health benefits of lemongrass in medicinal applications are well known to many cultures. Lemongrass, also known as citronella, is used as a natural deterrent to bug infestation and even in pet-behavior modification. Lemongrass is also widely used in compounds that are used for aroma therapy and natural oil treatments.
Beneficial Elements
The essential oil from lemongrass contains myrcene, geranyl acetate, limonene and other elements that are considered to be beneficial. Lemongrass also contains beta carotene, an antioxidant which has been found to be useful in healthy cell and tissue growth in the body. The citral and citronellas components of lemongrass have been found to be effective in aroma therapy treatment.
Uses
The use of the leaves and the stalk have been said to render a variety of beneficial results. Lemongrass has been reported to have antimicrobial and antibacterial qualities, which can help heal infections both internally and externally. It also is said to have anti-fungal and antiseptic qualities that have led to its use in topical compounds for the treatment of wounds, insect bites and other skin irritations. It is said to have astringent qualities, which not only aid in the clotting of blood in open wounds, but also promote proper blood circulation and prevent contraction of hair follicles, gums and blood vessels.
Other Uses
Lemongrass is also reported to have analgesic properties, which help reduce pain from inflammation of muscles, joints, tendons and other parts of the body, according to the National Library of Medicine. It has been used to treat pain caused by viral infections such as colds and influenza, as well as oral maladies found in the gums and teeth. Lemongrass has been used for many years in some Asian cultures for reducing fevers resulting from viral infections and inflammation. It is said to be an effective diuretic that helps increase urination to aid in digestion and maintains healthy blood pressure and kidney function.
Aesthetic Aspects
The culinary applications of lemongrass fight acidity and spiciness, as well as add a pleasing taste and aroma to foods and teas.
The use of this plant in the treatment of general malaise is becoming more common. Lemongrass has been used as a sedative in Asian medicine for many years because of its apparent calming effect. More recently, it has been applied in various treatments for symptoms of depression and fatigue.
Forms of the Application of Lemongrass
The entire lemongrass plant has been used for its beneficial aspects in the treatment of infections, inflammations and other maladies. The brewing of lemongrass leaves for tea has been used for centuries as a general mood enhancer, as well as a beneficial tonic. The stalks are rendered into analgesics and fungicides when they are boiled and mixed into topical compounds. The treatment for keratomycosis, an inflammation of the eye, can be made by formulating a liquid from renderings of the plant.
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