Know About The Potential Health Benefits, Side-Effects And Ways To Incorporate Lemon Grass In Your Diet

Lemongrass is one of the most useful items to add to your diet as it is high in folic acid, folate, zinc, magnesium, copper, potassium, iron, phosphorus, manganese, calcium, and vitamins A, B, and C.

Health benefits of lemongrass

Source : Getty

New Delhi: Lemongrass is a fragrant herb that is extensively utilised in Asian cuisine as well as in traditional medicine. Lemongrass includes a variety of components that contribute to its distinct flavour and multiple health advantages, including citral, geraniol, and limonene. Lemongrass is one of the most beneficial foods to include in your weekly diet because it is high in folic acid, folate, zinc, magnesium, copper, potassium, iron, phosphorus, manganese, calcium, and vitamins A, B, and C.

Often known as fever grass, it tastes and smells like lemon but is sweeter and milder. Lemongrass, whether dried or fresh, has numerous therapeutic characteristics including anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antidepressant, antiseptic, antipyretic, antibacterial, astringent, antifungal, carminative, febrifuge, diuretic, galactagogue, sedative, insecticidal, anti-cancer, and anti-ageing.

Here are some of the potential health benefits of lemongrass:

1. Aids In Digestion: Lemongrass includes chemicals that aid digestion and assist to avoid constipation, bloating, and other digestive problems. It can also aid in the development of digestive enzymes, which improves nutrient absorption from food.

2. Relieves Pain and Inflammation: Lemongrass has anti-inflammatory chemicals that can aid in pain and inflammation reduction in the body. As a result, it is an effective natural treatment for illnesses such as arthritis, headaches, and muscle pain.

3. Boosts Immune System: Lemongrass includes numerous chemicals with antimicrobial and antibacterial effects, including citral and limonene. These qualities have the potential to strengthen the immune system and protect the body against illnesses.

4. Lowers Cholesterol: Lemongrass has been found in studies to help lower cholesterol levels in the body, which can minimise the risk of heart disease and other related illnesses.

5. Lemongrass has diuretic properties: This means that it can aid in the generation of urine and the removal of toxins from the body. This can aid in the detoxifying processes of the liver and kidneys.

6. Reduces Anxiety and Stress: Lemongrass has antidepressant properties that aid in the relief of anxiety and depression symptoms. It promotes the release of serotonin, a chemical in the brain that is crucial for your mental well-being. Lemongrass not only helps to ease anxiety and sadness, but it also helps to boost self-esteem, combat negative moods, and boost mental strength.

7. Controls Obesity: Citral in lemongrass has long been used to treat and prevent obesity. This component promotes the utilisation of stored energy and minimises belly fat buildup. Drinking lemongrass tea on a daily basis can help you lose weight faster, but it should be combined with a well-balanced diet. Lemongrass tea boosts your metabolic rate and increases fatty acid oxidation in your body, aiding weight loss.

Possible Side-Effects Of Lemongrass:

Even though lemongrass is generally seen to be safe for use in teas and other natural medicines, it does have a number of potential adverse effects. As a result, it is strongly advised to see a doctor or nutritionist before introducing lemongrass into your diet or taking any lemongrass supplements.

• Tiredness, increased urination, dry mouth, extreme hunger, dizziness, nausea, and vomiting are all unusual but possible adverse effects.
• If you have a lemongrass allergy, you are more prone to encounter symptoms such as high heart rate, difficulty breathing, itching, and rash.
• If you have any disease or condition, are pregnant, have a low potassium level, have a slow heart rate, or are using any prescription diuretics, you should avoid lemongrass and its oil.

Ways To Incorporate Lemongrass Into Your Diet:

1. Tea: Lemongrass tea is a popular and simple way to enjoy the benefits of this herb. To make lemongrass tea, simply add a few stalks of fresh or dried lemongrass to hot water and let it steep for a few minutes.

2. Soups and Broths: Lemongrass can add a bright and zesty flavour to soups and broths. Add chopped or bruised lemongrass stalks to your favourite soup or broth recipe to infuse it with its citrusy aroma.

3. Curries and Stir-Fries: Lemongrass is a common ingredient in Southeast Asian cuisine, especially in curries and stir-fries. Chop the stalks finely and add them to your favourite curry or stir-fry recipe for an added layer of flavour.

4. Marinades: Lemongrass can also be used in marinades for chicken, fish, or beef. Mix chopped lemongrass with garlic, ginger, and other spices to create a flavourful and aromatic marinade.

5. Desserts and Beverages: Lemongrass can also be used in desserts and beverages to add a unique and refreshing flavour. It can be used to make sorbets, ice creams, and even cocktails.

6. Infused Oil: Infused oil is another way to add the flavour of lemongrass to your dishes. Simply heat oil in a pan and add bruised lemongrass stalks. Let the oil cool and then strain it to remove the stalks. Use the infused oil to add flavour to your dishes.