Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus)

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Botanical Information

• Family: Poaceae (Graminaceae)
• Common Names: Lemongrass, West Indian Lemongrass
• Parts Used: Leaves, stems, essential oil

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Description

Cymbopogon citratus is a tropical grass widely cultivated for its aromatic leaves and stems. It has a fresh, citrusy scent and is traditionally used in culinary, medicinal, and aromatherapeutic applications. Lemongrass is known for its digestive, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties.

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Historical and Traditional Uses

• Used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for digestive and respiratory support.
• Employed in Ayurveda to balance digestion, reduce fever, and enhance circulation.
• Traditionally used as a tea to relieve colds, headaches, and muscle pain.

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Constituents

• Essential oils (citral, myrcene, geraniol)
• Flavonoids
• Alkaloids
• Saponins
• Tannins

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Actions

• Digestive stimulant
• Carminative (relieves gas and bloating)
• Antimicrobial
• Anti-inflammatory
• Diuretic
• Nervine (calms the nervous system)

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Medicinal Uses

1. Digestive Health:
Lemongrass tea is commonly used to relieve bloating, indigestion, and stomach cramps.

2. Antimicrobial and Immune Support:
Traditionally used to fight infections, including bacterial and fungal conditions.

3. Anti-Inflammatory and Pain Relief:
Contains compounds that reduce inflammation, making it useful for muscle pain, headaches, and joint stiffness.

4. Nervous System and Stress Relief:
Has mild sedative effects that help reduce anxiety, promote relaxation, and support restful sleep.

5. Circulatory and Heart Health:
May help regulate blood pressure and improve circulation.

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Preparation and Dosage

Infusion (Tea):

• 1-2 tsp of dried lemongrass leaves per cup of boiling water. Steep for 10-15 minutes and drink up to 3 times daily.

Tincture:

• 2-5 ml of tincture taken up to 3 times daily.

Essential Oil (Topical Use):

• Always dilute with a carrier oil before applying to the skin.

Inhalation (Aromatherapy):

• Add a few drops of essential oil to a diffuser for relaxation and respiratory support.

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Precautions and Contraindications

• Pregnancy and Lactation: Use with caution; high doses should be avoided.
• Skin Sensitivity: Some individuals may experience irritation from the essential oil.
• Gastrointestinal Sensitivity: Excess consumption may cause mild stomach upset.

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Energetics (Traditional Medicine Perspectives)

• Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM): Warming and aromatic; clears dampness and promotes digestion.
• Ayurveda: Balancing for Kapha and Vata, but may increase Pitta in excess.

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Combinations

• For Digestive Health: Combine with ginger and peppermint.
• For Immune Support: Combine with echinacea and elderberry.
• For Stress and Relaxation: Combine with chamomile and lavender.

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Harvesting and Storage

• Harvesting: Leaves are collected fresh throughout the growing season.
• Drying: Air dry leaves in a well-ventilated, shaded area.
• Storage: Store dried lemongrass in an airtight container away from light and moisture.

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Modern Research

Studies confirm Cymbopogon citratus’s benefits for digestion, inflammation reduction, and antimicrobial activity, reinforcing its traditional medicinal applications.

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Lemongrass remains a valuable herb in both traditional and modern medicine, particularly for digestive health, stress relief, and immune support.