The benefits of lemongrass for health are closely related to the nutritional content in it. In addition to making the taste of food and drinks more delicious, lemongrass also contains various kinds of nutrients that the body needs, such as B vitamins, magnesium, potassium and iron.
To get the benefits of lemongrass, you can consume foods or drinks that contain lemongrass. You can also use lemongrass oil as a soothing aromatherapy.
Recognizing the Various Benefits of Lemongrass
Lemongrass is believed to have various health benefits. Here are some of them:
- Overcoming cavitiesConsumption of lemongrass tea can help overcome oral infections and cavities. A study revealed, the antimicrobial substances in lemongrass are effective against harmful bacteria such as Streptococcus mutans, the bacteria that cause tooth decay.
- Fight free radicalsA study revealed that lemongrass contains several antioxidants that play a role in fighting free radicals. The antioxidants found in lemongrass include chlorogenic acid, isoorientin and swertiajaponin.
- Control blood pressureThe next health benefit of lemongrass is to help control blood pressure. This is because lemongrass contains a mineral called potassium.
- Relieve the symptoms of premenstrual syndromeAlthough it needs to be investigated further, the consumption of lemongrass tea is believed to be able to overcome menstrual cramps and also bloating when women experience premenstrual syndrome or premenstrual syndrome (PMS).
- Regulate muscle functionThe content of magnesium and potassium contained in lemongrass is useful in regulating muscle, heart and nerve function. Consumption of foods or drinks containing lemongrass is also useful for keeping bones strong.
- Overcoming anxietyNot only consumed, lemongrass oil can also be used as aromatherapy to treat anxiety. However, further research is needed regarding its effectiveness.
- Lose weightAlthough it needs further research, lemongrass tea is often used to aid weight loss. However, do not make lemongrass tea the only weight loss agent, because it can cause side effects if consumed in excess.
In addition, lemongrass is also believed to prevent vaginal discharge, relieve pain, swelling, fever, cough, stomachache, and headache. However, the benefits of lemongrass for health still need to be further researched.
Lemongrass Consumption Rules to Pay Attention to
There are no definite rules for the use or consumption of lemongrass for health. However, it is recommended to consume just one cup of lemongrass tea every day, or ask your doctor about the recommended dose. If consumed in excess, lemongrass can cause side effects such as dizziness, dry mouth, fatigue, and even hunger.
If you use citronella oil as an oil, don't apply it directly to the skin. But dilute it first with a carrier oil to minimize skin irritation. Don't inhale lemongrass oil directly, but drop it on a cloth or on diffuser as aromatherapy.
Although the benefits of lemongrass for health vary, you must still be careful in using it. In certain conditions such as being pregnant and breastfeeding, avoid consuming lemongrass or using lemongrass for a while. For safety's sake, check with your doctor first regarding its use.