What is lemongrass and why is it so popular?
Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus), also known as lemongrass, is an aromatic tropical plant with many virtues. Grown mainly in Asia and Africa, it is used both in cooking and in traditional medicine for its digestive, relaxing, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Its fresh, lemony fragrance makes it a popular ingredient in infusions, essential oils and cosmetics.
Thanks to its wealth of active compounds such as geraniol, citral and myrcene, lemongrass has beneficial effects on digestion, the nervous system, muscular pain and protection against infection. It is also a powerful natural mosquito repellent, used in many essential oil formulations and anti-insect sprays.
What are the health and well-being benefits of lemongrass?
Lemongrass is renowned above all for its digestive properties. As an infusion, it promotes better digestion, reduces bloating and abdominal cramps, and soothes digestive disorders linked to a rich diet. It stimulates the production of digestive enzymes, facilitating nutrient absorption and limiting intestinal discomfort.
Its relaxing effect on the nervous system makes it ideal for reducing stress and anxiety and improving sleep quality. Its fresh, soothing fragrance helps to calm the mind, promoting deep relaxation when consumed as an herbal tea or diffused as an essential oil.
On the anti-infectious front, lemongrass has remarkable antimicrobial and antifungal properties. It helps fight respiratory, urinary and digestive infections, while boosting the immune system. Its essential oil is particularly effective against pathogenic fungi, bacteria and yeasts, especially in cases of mycosis or candidiasis.
It is also recognized for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, helping to relieve muscular and joint pain and body tension. Applied as a diluted essential oil massage, it has a relaxing and soothing effect, ideal after a sports session or for chronic pain such as arthritis.
Finally, its natural repellent power makes it an effective solution against mosquitoes and other biting insects. Used as a vapour, spray or applied to the skin, lemongrass effectively repels pests while leaving a pleasant lemony scent.
How to use lemongrass every day?
Lemongrass can be consumed and applied in a variety of ways: as an infusion, essential oil, hydrosol or for culinary use.
Infusion for digestion and relaxation
To benefit from its digestive and relaxing effects, an infusion of lemongrass is ideal:
As an essential oil for pain and relaxation
Lemongrass essential oil is an excellent anti-inflammatory and analgesic:
To benefit from its purifying and repellent virtues:
Pour 5 to 10 drops of essential oil into an ultrasonic diffuser.
Diffuse in a room for 30 minutes, especially in summer, to repel insects.
In the kitchen to perfume dishes
Lemongrass is a key ingredient in Asian cuisine, particularly in curries, soups and marinades. Its lemony flavor adds a fresh, exotic note to culinary preparations.
Does lemongrass have any side effects or contraindications?
Lemongrass is generally well tolerated, but as its essential oil is highly concentrated, it must be used with care. Never apply it undiluted to the skin, as it can be irritating. Always dilute it in a vegetable oil before applying to the skin.
Lemongrass essential oil is not recommended for pregnant and breastfeeding women, or for children under 6, due to its high content of powerful active compounds.
For internal use, infusions should be consumed in moderation. Excessive consumption may cause heartburn or intestinal irritation. A maximum of 3 cups a day is recommended.
People suffering from inflammatory digestive disorders, such as ulcers or gastritis, should consult a health professional before incorporating lemongrass into their routine.
Finally, it's best to avoid sun exposure after applying lemongrass essential oil to the skin, as it can be mildly photosensitizing.
How to choose quality lemongrass?
For optimum effectiveness, we recommend choosing lemongrass grown organically, without pesticides or chemical treatments.
Lemongrass is available in pharmacies, organic stores and specialized stores, in the form of dried plants, essential oil, hydrolate or incorporated into natural cosmetics and repellents.
