Lemon Grass
Cymbopogon citratus, commonly known as lemongrass, is a tall, stalky plant popular in culinary and medicinal uses. Famous for its bright, citrusy aroma and flavor, this multitasker herb is a staple in many Asian cuisines and a key part of holistic wellness practices across the globe. Working with lemongrass: Health benefits of lemongrass: Uses in cooking and skincare.
Table of Contents
What is Lemongrass?
Nutritional Benefits of Lemongrass
Health Benefits of Lemongrass
3.1. Antioxidant Properties
3.2. Digestive Aid
3.3. Stress and Anxiety Relief
3.4. Antimicrobial Effects
Culinary Uses of Lemongrass
Lemongrass in Skincare
How to grow and harvest lemongrass
Conclusion
What is Lemon grass?
Lemongrass is a tropical and subtropical, perennial grass, most commonly found in Africa and Southeast Asian countries. With its signature lemony aroma, it now ranks as a favorite among people worldwide for its versatile uses. The plant is attractive, compact, can be grown in dense clumps and has long, slender leaves and fibrous stalks. Lemongrass flourishes in warm environments, but it can still be grown in temperate zones in pots or gardens, depending on climate and care.
Lemongrass Nutritional Information
The herb is aromatic and rich in nutrients. One serving of lemongrass has about:
• Calories: The calories are low in that, it has around 99 calories for a 100gms.
• Vitamins: These are all high in vitamin A, vitamin C, and several B vitamins, including B1 (thiamine), and B6 (pyridoxine).
• Minerals: Rich in potassium, calcium, magnesium, and manganese.
• Fiber: High in dietary fiber to support your digestive health.
• Essential Oils: These pay off bioactive compounds including those of citral and geraniol.
These nutrients work together to create a powerhouse of health benefits in lemongrass.
Health Benefits of Lemon grass
3.1 Antioxidant Properties
It is high in a antioxidants (both vitamin A and vitamin C) that counteract oxidative stress from free radicals, which is one reason why they are thought to have anti-cancer properties. Citral is a primary compound in lemongrass and has been indicated to decrease inflammation and prevent chronic diseases including cancer and heart disease.
3.2 Digestive Aid
Lemon grass tea has traditionally been used to relieve digestive issues such as bloating, cramps, and indigestion. It has antispasmodic properties that aid in relaxing the stomach muscles and thereby help in faster digestion.
3.3 Stress and Anxiety Relief
Lemon grass essential oil is a preferred option in aromatherapy due to its soothing aroma. Smelling it, or putting diluted oil on your skin, can relieve stress, boost your mood, and even improve your sleep quality.
3.4 Antimicrobial Effects
The Plant has strong Antimicrobial and Antifungal properties, antibacterial against E. coli and Staphylococcus aureus. It is also utilized as a natural treatment for minor infections and wounds.
Culinary Uses of Lemon grass
Lemon grass is also a very intelligent condiment. The stalks are often used for:
• Soups and Curries: Creates a citrusy note in Thai dishes like Tom Yum soup and green curry.
• Marinades: Great for soaking meats, seafood, and tofu.
• Teas and beverages: Lemongrass stalks infuse hot water for a refreshing herbal tea.
• Desserts: Used to lend flavoring to panna cotta and sorbets.
When cooking with lemongrass, peel away the tough outer layers, then finely chop or bruise the tender inner stalks to release their oils.
Lemongrass in Skincare
Lemon grass, packed with antimicrobial and astringent properties, is a rock-star skincare ingredient. It is commonly used in:
• Cleansers and Toners: Aids in the cleansing of pores, as well as balancing oily skin.
• Essential Oils — In both massage oils for relaxation and skin texture:fluttering:
• DIY Skincare: Ate “a few drops of lemongrass oil to homemade face masks and scrubs for refreshing lift.
To prevent irritation, lemongrass oil should always be diluted before topical use.
How to Grow and Pick Your Own Lemongrass
Here are a few tips on how to grow lemongrass home:
• Climate: Likes warm, sunny climate types.
• Soil: Needs well-drained, rich soil.
• Water: Moist, but not soggy soil.
• Propagation: From store-bought seeds or stalks
When it’s time to harvest, cut the stalks close to the ground after they have grown to some 12 inches. Freshly-picked lemongrass can be eaten fresh or dehydrated.
Conclusion
Lemongrass is a unique herb that goes beyond the food and medicine. It is a miracle ingredient, which is packed with nutrients, has a plethora of health benefits and has versatile uses in cooking as well as skin and hair care, it should be a staple in every home. Whether you’re making a comforting brew of tea or a bright and fragrant pot of curry, lemon grass will enhance your experience. Start using this amazing plant in your daily life and enjoy its benefits! click here