Lemongrass or tanglad grows in many parts of the country. Also called citronella, this plant has tall, thin leaves and a lemony or citrusy aroma. Not only do people use it in cooking, but many also boil the leaves or stems to prepare a relaxing tea. Here are some of the potential lemongrass tea benefits.
1. It may help cure jaundice
One report mentioned that the liquid from boiling the stems (without the roots or tips) might help with jaundice.
To prepare, you need a handful of the stems, boil it until the volume of the water is down only to 1/3 of the starting volume, and take it at least three times a day for three days.
Important Reminder
If you’re experiencing jaundice, chances are, you have an underlying condition that needs treatment. It’s a must to get in touch with your doctor for proper assessment and treatment.
2. It contains several antioxidants
A paper featured on American Chemical Society Publications said that infusions and decoction of tanglad have “free radical scavenging antioxidants2.” Free radicals are substances that might cause diseases.
3. It has anti-inflammatory properties
The Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center mentioned that lemongrass contains geraniol and citral compounds with anti-inflammatory properties.
Note that inflammation is associated with many diseases, including stroke, cardiovascular ailments, and arthritis.
4. It may have antibacterial properties
One of the possible lemongrass tea benefits points to its antibacterial properties.
In a report titled, Antimicrobial activity of commercially available essential oils against Streptococcus mutans, the researchers said that lemongrass oil “exhibit antibacterial property against S. mutans.4“
Note that S. mutans is a common culprit for tooth decay. For this reason, drinking lemongrass tea may help with oral cavities and infections.
5. It may ease gastric ulcers
A 2012 report “confirmed” the traditional use of citronella for the treatment of gastric ulcers. However, please note that the research was from a lab study on rodents, and it focused on citronella essential oil5.
Still, since essential oils come from the extract of plants, a cup of lemongrass tea may also be beneficial for gastric ulcers.
6. It may help with high cholesterol
One of the potential lemongrass tea benefits is it can help with heart health.
Reports said elevated cholesterol levels in animals were significantly lowered after they received citronella plant extract6. The effect, according to researchers, was dose-dependent.
7. It may lower blood pressure
An observational study involving 72 participants found that tanglad may help with hypertension7.
In the research, the participants received either green tea or lemongrass tea. Those who had lemongrass tea experienced lowered heart rate and systolic pressure (number on top). However, they also experienced a mild increase in their diastolic pressure (bottom number).
Lemongrass Tea Benefits: Reminders
Lemongrass tea is likely safe when taken in food amounts. You can prepare the tea by boiling 1 to 3 teaspoons of leaves or 1 to 2 pieces of stalks (1 to 2 inches) in a cup of water. Steep for 5 minutes, strain, and enjoy.
Alternatively, you can also purchase dried lemongrass tea leaves or lemongrass tea bags.
While generally safe, please consult your doctor first if you plan to use lemongrass tea as a way to treat your condition. Consultation is also necessary if you already take other medicines or are pregnant.
Key Takeaways
Lemongrass, tanglad, or citronella is a common ingredient in Asian cuisine. Some of the potential lemongrass tea benefits include helping cure jaundice, relieving gastric ulcers, lowering blood pressure and cholesterol. Reports also say it has anti-inflammatory properties, antioxidants, and antibacterial properties.
Please don’t forget to consult your doctor first if you plan to use lemongrass tea as a way to treat your condition.
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