Lemongrass, a familiar herbaceous plant in Vietnamese kitchens, is not only a spice that adds aroma to dishes but also a treasure trove of valuable medicinal properties. Today, modern science has also proven the wonderful benefits of lemongrass for human health.

 

Lemongrass contains a large amount of antioxidants such as flavonoids and polyphenols, which help protect cells from free radical attacks, thereby enhancing the body's resistance. These compounds also have antibacterial and antiviral properties, helping to fight common infections such as flu, cough and sore throat. Scientific research has shown that lemongrass can help stimulate the production of white blood cells, warriors that protect the body from pathogens.

1. Support the digestive system

Lemongrass has the effect of stimulating digestive secretions, helping to improve the digestion and absorption of food. Lemongrass essential oil has the ability to reduce intestinal smooth muscle spasms, helping to reduce symptoms of bloating, indigestion, abdominal pain and diarrhea. Lemongrass also has antibacterial effects, helping to eliminate harmful bacteria in the intestines, maintaining the balance of intestinal microflora. According to research results, lemongrass also helps prevent stomach ulcers.

2. Pain relief and anti-inflammatory

The citral and geraniol compounds in lemongrass have strong pain relief and anti-inflammatory effects, helping to relieve headaches, muscle pain, joint pain and other inflammatory symptoms. Lemongrass essential oil can be used to massage to relieve muscle pain, or mixed into bath water to relax the body. Lemongrass also has the effect of reducing menstrual cramps in women.

3. Lower blood pressure, lower cholesterol

Lemongrass has the effect of dilating blood vessels, helping to improve blood circulation and lower blood pressure. Drinking lemongrass tea regularly can help control blood pressure in people with high blood pressure. Lemongrass essential oil, and lemongrass extracts, have also been shown to be effective in helping to stabilize blood sugar. Some studies have shown that lemongrass can help reduce bad cholesterol (LDL) levels and increase good cholesterol (HDL), thereby reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease.

4. Calming, reducing stress

The scent of lemongrass has the effect of relaxing the mind, reducing stress, anxiety and improving sleep. Drinking lemongrass tea or steaming lemongrass essential oil can help you relax after a stressful day at work. Research shows that the scent of lemongrass helps the body increase the production of Serotonin, a neurotransmitter that regulates mood.

5. Detoxifying the body, preventing cancer

Lemongrass has a diuretic effect, helping to increase the elimination of toxins from the body through the urinary tract. Lemongrass also has the effect of purifying the liver, helping the liver function more effectively. When using lemongrass, the function of the kidneys and liver is very well supported.

The citral and geraniol compounds in lemongrass have the ability to inhibit the growth of cancer cells. Some studies have shown that lemongrass can help prevent colon cancer and skin cancer. However, more research is needed to determine more clearly the anti-cancer effects of lemongrass.

6. Regulate menstruation

Since ancient times, lemongrass has been known as a valuable herb, not only used in cooking but also widely used in traditional medicine. In particular, lemongrass is considered an effective natural remedy for women, helping to regulate menstruation and reduce uncomfortable abdominal pain during "red light" days.