Lemongrass: the potent perennial
Lemongrass, a perennial plant with long, thin leaves, is native to many Asian countries. Called daun sereh in Indonesian, it has been used for its culinary and medicinal purposes since ancient times. Packed with vitamins A and C, folate, folic acid, magnesium, zinc, copper, iron, potassium, phosphorus, calcium and manganese, it’s no wonder this plant is a nutrient powerhouse.
Lemongrass is commonly used in Asian cuisine, especially in Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia and Vietnam. Its taste and scent is similar to lemons but is sweeter and milder. It is used for adding flavour to curries, soups and meat dishes, and is also commonly used in the preparation of teas, puddings, sweets and baked goods.
Lemongrass stems have layers that can be peeled away
This quick-spreading grass is known to combat various digestive health problems such as indigestion, constipation, heartburn, diarrhoea and bloating. It contains antiseptic compounds that kill bad bacteria and parasites in the digestive tract and repopulate good bacteria in the colon, which in return promotes healthy digestion. Similarly, lemongrass has properties which support healthy cholesterol levels.
Research has found that lemongrass contains a cancer-fighting component called citral. This liquid, which gives lemongrass and other citrus oils their fragrance, has been found to stop the growth of cancer cells without damaging the growth of healthy cells. Cancer patients are encouraged to consume lemongrass during chemotherapy and radiation treatments. Plus, the antioxidant properties in lemongrass lower the risk of getting cancer by fighting free radicals.
Lemongrass is sometimes called fever grass, as it has beneficial effects in lowering fevers. The antibacterial and antifungal properties help the body cope with coughs and fevers. It is also conveniently packed with vitamin C, super boosting the immune system to fight infection. Other symptoms of cold and flu such as headaches, muscle and joint pain and hampered breathing can be relieved by lemongrass oil. Simply consume lemongrass tea each day or mix a few drops of the oil with warm water and inhale the steam to relieve congestion.
Lemongrass essential oil is an alternative to fresh lemongrass and can be found in most chemists and health shops
For all the detox enthusiasts out there, lemongrass should be an essential part of your detox regime. This powerful detoxifier helps remove toxins, uric acid and bad cholesterol, purifying the liver, kidneys, bladder and pancreas. It also helps with blood circulation, which is important for an overall healthy metabolism. If you are a fan of big meals, drinking a cup of lemongrass tea after a meal will help eliminate excess fat much faster and reduce water retention in the body.
As natural beauty products are becoming more popular, the benefits of lemongrass are gaining popularity in the search for healthy skin. The essential oil is extracted from the dried grass by steam distillation and is freely available. Due to its antiseptic, antibacterial and astringent properties, it is an effective cleanser as it reduces the bacterial growth on your skin. Vitamin A in the oil helps cure acne and pimples while minimising the appearance of large pores. The oil cleanses the pores, strengthens skin tissue and acts as a natural toner. As lemongrass essential oil is very concentrated, dilute several drops with water or another base such as olive oil, before applying to the skin. The antiseptic and antibacterial properties are also why lemongrass is used in the production of deodorants as they help combat body odour and fungal and bacterial infections.
Lemongrass can grow up to 5 feet tall
The easiest way to include lemongrass in your diet is by making tea from its stem. You can find fresh lemongrass in markets anywhere in Indonesia and in Asian supermarkets elsewhere. Simply cut off the root and remove any of the dry outer leaves. Cut up the stem and steep in a cup of boiling water for 5 to 10 minutes. Lemongrass tea works either as a warm, soothing drink or as a chilled beverage for hot days.
However you choose to use lemongrass, you can’t help but benefit from this health-packed plant.
