Lemongrass (scientific name: Cymbopogon citratus) is a familiar spice and medicinal plant in many Asian countries, especially Vietnam. With its distinctive aroma, mildly spicy taste mixed with a fresh lemon scent, lemongrass is not only used in cuisine, but also carries many values in traditional medicine, daily life, and culture. This plant has been used by humans for thousands of years, originating from ancient civilizations in India and Sri Lanka, where it was considered an indispensable part of folk remedies and religious rituals. Nowadays, lemongrass has spread globally, from streevt food in Southeast Asia to modern industrial products such as essential oils and cosmetics.
For thousands of years, lemongrass has been present in meals, in folk remedies, in religious rituals, and even in modern cosmetic industries. According to historical documents, lemongrass is mentioned in the ancient Ayurvedic texts of India, where it was used to balance the body and mind. In Vietnam, lemongrass is not only a spice but also a symbol of purity and closeness to nature, often appearing in folk festivals and the daily life of rural people. Its popularity has increasingly grown thanks to modern scientific studies demonstrating its health benefits, from antibacterial properties to digestive support, making it a “super herb” in today’s era.
Botanical Characteristics and Distribution of Lemongrass
Morphology and Characteristics
Lemongrass is a perennial herb, growing 1–1.5 meters tall, sometimes reaching 2 meters in ideal conditions. It forms dense clumps with slender, cylindrical stalks, light green above and white at the base. The leaves are long, narrow, with sharp edges and visible veins. The lower stem is rich in essential oil, giving a fresh lemony aroma. Flowers are small, rarely blooming in temperate climates. Its strong roots tolerate drought and allow easy propagation by dividing clumps. This hardy plant is widely valued for both culinary and medicinal uses.
Lemongrass belongs to the Poaceae family (the grass family), genus Cymbopogon, with two common species being Cymbopogon citratus (lemon grass) and Cymbopogon flexuosus (Java grass). Its most notable feature is the essential oil, which accounts for about 1–2% of the plant’s weight, mainly concentrated in the leaves and stems, containing compounds such as citral (70–80%), geraniol, and myrcene, providing high economic value in the industry.
Distribution and Cultivation
Lemongrass originates from India and Sri Lanka, then spread throughout tropical regions of Asia, Africa, and Latin America thanks to its high adaptability to hot and humid climates. In Vietnam, lemongrass is widely cultivated from the North to the South, both for culinary use and for lemongrass essential oil distillation. The Mekong Delta provinces such as An Giang and Đồng Tháp are major production areas, with cultivation areas reaching thousands of hectares. Worldwide, India is the largest exporter of lemongrass essential oil.
The cultivation of lemongrass is quite simple: the plant prefers moist, well-drained soil, full sunlight, and can be grown year-round in tropical regions. Propagation is done by clump division or stem cuttings, with harvesting time after 4–6 months. In organic farming, lemongrass is also used as a natural barrier to repel harmful insects, contributing to a sustainable ecosystem. However, the plant is susceptible to pests and diseases such as rust if not properly cared for, requiring farmers to apply biological measures.
Lemongrass in Cuisine
Lemongrass – A Familiar Spice of the Vietnamese People
In Vietnamese cuisine, lemongrass is widely used to enhance flavor and reduce fishy odors while adding warmth and stimulating appetite. Stir-fried chicken with lemongrass and chili combines minced lemongrass, garlic, and chili for a spicy aroma; grilled beef in betel leaves is marinated with lemongrass for tenderness; sour snakehead fish soup blends tamarind with lemongrass fragrance; while Thai-style hotpot uses lemongrass with kaffir lime leaves and galangal. It is also found in roasted pork or refreshing salads such as shredded chicken salad with thinly sliced lemongrass.
Lemongrass is not only a spice but also a cultural element in Vietnamese cuisine, often appearing in family meals or festivals. Traditionally, Vietnamese people use lemongrass to marinate seafood, making dishes more flavorful and easier to digest. In modern restaurants, lemongrass is creatively incorporated into fusion dishes such as shrimp lemongrass salad or lemongrass–lime smoothies.
Lemongrass in International Cuisine
Not only in Vietnam, but many Asian cuisines also regard lemongrass as the soul of cooking. In Thailand, lemongrass is a key ingredient in Tom Yum – the famous hot and sour shrimp soup – as well as in green curry (Gaeng Keow Wan) and red curry (Gaeng Phed), where it is bruised to release its essential oils. In Indonesia and Malaysia, lemongrass is used in rendang – the slow-cooked spiced meat dish – and in satay marinated with lemongrass before grilling, creating the distinctive aroma of Southeast Asian cuisine. In India, lemongrass is infused in ginger–lemongrass tea, incorporated into spiced stews such as masala, or used to make sauces for vegetarian dishes.
Around the world, lemongrass has also spread into European and American cuisines, appearing in dishes such as Mediterranean salads or lemongrass–vodka cocktails. The global popularity of lemongrass reflects its versatile value, ranging from rustic dishes to gourmet cuisine.
Uses and Health Benefits of Lemongrass
Lemongrass is not only a familiar spice but also offers numerous health benefits. With its rich natural compounds, the health advantages of lemongrass have been widely researched and applied in both traditional and modern medicine. Lemongrass essential oil, extracted from its leaves and stems, contains powerful antioxidants such as citral, geraniol, and myrcene, which help fight bacteria, reduce inflammation, and support the immune system. According to studies, the health benefits of lemongrass include reducing inflammation, improving digestion, and stabilizing blood pressure, making it a natural choice for many everyday health concerns.
Nutritional Value
According to research, lemongrass contains vitamins A, C, and B6, which support immunity and vision; and minerals such as iron, zinc, magnesium, and potassium, which help maintain electrolyte balance and cardiovascular health. Lemongrass essential oil is rich in citral, geraniol, and myrcene, with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. In addition, lemongrass contains antioxidants such as phenolics and flavonoids, which help prevent cellular aging. A serving of fresh lemongrass (about 100 g) provides approximately 99 calories, 25 g of carbohydrates, and a high amount of dietary fiber, supporting digestion.
Uses in Traditional Medicine
Relieving colds and reducing fever: Drinking lemongrass–ginger tea or inhaling steam from boiled lemongrass helps clear nasal passages and reduce headaches.
Supporting digestion: Alleviates bloating and indigestion thanks to its warming nature, which stimulates digestive enzymes.
Antibacterial and antifungal: Used in treating coughs, sore throats, and even skin infections.
In traditional Chinese and Indian medicine, lemongrass is used to balance yin and yang, treat menstrual disorders, and relieve menstrual cramps.
Health Benefits in Modern Medicine
Modern scientific studies have proven many health benefits of lemongrass, expanding its applications in contemporary medicine. Lemongrass essential oil and extracts contain compounds such as citral, geraniol, and quercetin, which provide anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and body-supporting functions. Below are detailed benefits, based on in vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies.
Stress Reduction and Sleep Improvement
Lemongrass essential oil is widely used in aromatherapy due to its gentle fragrance, which promotes relaxation and supports better sleep.
Given its potential to support mood regulation and sleep quality, lemongrass is considered a natural and safe option for individuals experiencing daily stress or insomnia. Common applications include steam inhalation or topical use after dilution with carrier oils.
Weight Management and Body Detoxification
Lemongrass supports weight management primarily through its diuretic properties, which help reduce water retention, promote detoxification, and stimulate metabolism.
lemongrass tea increased urine output more effectively than other beverages, facilitating the removal of excess sodium and supporting body weight control.
Replacing sugary drinks with lemongrass tea may contribute to weight loss and detox benefits. However, it should not be used exclusively, as excessive intake could lead to side effects.
The health benefits of lemongrass in this area make it a valuable addition to detox diets, especially when combined with a balanced nutrition plan and under medical guidance.
Blood Pressure and Blood Sugar Regulation
Lemongrass extracts contribute to blood pressure stabilization through vasodilatory and anti-inflammatory effects. lemongrass and its major compound citral reduced blood pressure in animals and humans, primarily via nitric oxide stimulation and calcium channel blockade in vascular smooth muscles.
Regarding blood glucose, a animal study demonstrated that lemongrass extract significantly reduced plasma glucose levels and improved lipid profiles in diabetic rats.
These findings suggest that lemongrass may offer supportive benefits for individuals with hypertension and diabetes. However, monitoring is recommended to avoid excessive bradycardia, particularly in men with pre-existing cardiovascular conditions.
Cholesterol Management and Cardiovascular Support
Lemongrass exhibits hypocholesterolemic properties, contributing to heart health by lowering harmful lipid levels. The study identified peptides obtained from lemongrass protein hydrolysates that were able to inhibit HMG-CoA reductase (the key enzyme in cholesterol synthesis) in an in vitro model, and in animal experiments (Sprague-Dawley rats) fed a high-fat and high-cholesterol diet, a significant reduction in serum cholesterol levels was observed.
The proposed mechanisms include antioxidant activity and anti-inflammatory effects within arterial walls, which may help prevent atherosclerosis. Traditionally, lemongrass has been used in parts of Africa for coronary heart disease management, highlighting its ethnomedicinal relevance.
These findings position lemongrass as a potential functional food ingredient for cardiovascular health, though further clinical studies in humans are necessary for confirmation.
Anticancer Effects
Lemongrass demonstrates potential anticancer activity primarily through its bioactive compounds citral and geraniol, which induce programmed cell death (apoptosis) in cancer cell lines. In vitro studies have shown that citral inhibits the growth of breast, cervical, and prostate cancer cells by activating caspase-3 and causing cell cycle arrest, while exhibiting minimal toxicity toward normal cells.
In vivo experiments in mice further revealed that lemongrass essential oil reduced the progression of colorectal cancer and lymphoma. Beyond direct anticancer mechanisms, lemongrass has been suggested as a complementary therapy during chemotherapy, supporting immune function and mitigating treatment-related toxicity.
However, more clinical trials in humans are required to validate these findings and establish safe, effective therapeutic applications.
Anti-inflammatory and Joint Pain Relief
Lemongrass essential oil exhibits anti-inflammatory properties by inhibiting chronic inflammation markers such as VCAM-1 and IP-10. A 2017 study on human skin cells demonstrated that lemongrass suppressed inflammation in a pro-inflammatory environment, modulating 21,224 genes associated with inflammation and tissue repair.
Furthermore, a study confirmed its anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, highlighting its potential role in managing chronic pain conditions. These health benefits are particularly relevant for individuals with arthritis and muscle pain, where lemongrass can be applied topically to help alleviate discomfort.
Skin Health Improvement
Lemongrass supports skin health due to its antifungal and antibacterial properties, helping treat skin fungi and acne. A 2022 study demonstrated that lemongrass essential oil effectively inhibited pathogenic fungi such as Candida albicans. A 2024 review further highlighted its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities, making it valuable in skincare applications.
In cosmetics, lemongrass is used for managing dandruff and dermatitis, though it should always be diluted to avoid skin irritation.
Oral Health Support
In certain regions, chewing lemongrass stalks is believed to enhance dental health and maintain oral hygiene. This belief has been supported by several studies:
A study conducted by Frontiers in Dentistry in 2021 found that mouthwash containing lemongrass oil has anti-plaque and anti-gingivitis properties comparable to chlorhexidine mouthwash in children.
A study conducted by The Journal of Contemporary Dental Practice in 2023 reported that participants using lemongrass oil mouthwash showed significantly lower plaque levels, fewer instances of gingivitis, and better gum health compared to those using chlorhexidine mouthwash.
A study conducted by the Pharmaceuticals Journal in 2023 revealed that lemongrass essential oil is beneficial in managing periodontitis, gingivitis, and bad breath.
Antibacterial and Antifungal Properties
Lemongrass exhibits strong antibacterial activity, effectively inhibiting E. coli and Staphylococcus aureus. Studies have shown that lemongrass essential oil reduces bacterial toxicity in the gastrointestinal tract.
It also demonstrates antifungal effects against skin fungi and foodborne fungi, as evidenced by both in vitro and in vivo studies. These properties make lemongrass a potential natural alternative to antibiotics in the treatment of infections.
Antioxidant Enhancement
Lemongrass is rich in antioxidants such as quercetin and chlorogenic acid, which help reduce oxidative stress. A 2021 study demonstrated that lemongrass effectively scavenges free radicals and protects cardiovascular cells.
The health benefits of lemongrass in this regard help prevent chronic diseases, with common applications in daily tea consumption.
Lemongrass Essential Oil and Its Applications in Daily Life
Lemongrass Essential Oil as a Mosquito and Insect Repellent
Lemongrass essential oil is a safe, natural solution used to repel mosquitoes, ants, and cockroaches as an alternative to chemical repellents. Citral in the oil disrupts the insect nervous system, with studies showing up to 80% effectiveness.
It can be sprayed directly or diffused using oil lamps in the home, making it especially useful in tropical regions such as Vietnam.
Applications in Spas and Cosmetics
Perfumes, shampoos, and body washes containing lemongrass essential oil provide a pleasant fragrance and antibacterial benefits for the skin. In aromatherapy, lemongrass helps promote relaxation, reduce stress, and improve mood.
Many global cosmetic brands, such as The Body Shop, incorporate lemongrass in skincare products for acne treatment and pore cleansing.
Cleaning Applications
Lemongrass essential oil can be diluted for mopping floors and spraying rooms, creating a clean and pleasant environment. It is also used in natural soaps and dishwashing liquids thanks to its strong antibacterial properties, helping to eliminate bacteria without harming the environment.
Lemongrass in Culture and Beliefs
Folk Rituals
In many rural areas of Vietnam, fumigating houses with lemongrass is believed to ward off negative energies and bring good luck, especially during Tet or after building a new home. In the South, lemongrass is used in land-offering rituals, symbolizing purity and family protection.
Symbol of Purification and Peace
In India, lemongrass is associated with purity and is used in many religious rituals such as puja, where it symbolizes spiritual cleansing. In Thai culture, lemongrass appears in Buddhist festivals, helping to create a sacred atmosphere. Globally, lemongrass represents a connection to nature and cultural traditions.
How to Use and Store Lemongrass
Fresh storage: Wrap in plastic and keep in the refrigerator for 1–2 weeks, or soak in water to maintain freshness.
Freezing: Slice and freeze to preserve for several months, convenient for cooking.
Drying or dehydrating: Used for making tea, medicine, and preserving its aroma for a long time.
Note: Avoid excessive use during pregnancy, and always check for allergies before using essential oil.
Conclusion
Lemongrass is not only a familiar spice in cuisine but also a valuable medicinal herb, bringing numerous benefits to health, daily life, and culture. From family kitchens to luxury spas, from rustic dishes to traditional rituals, lemongrass has affirmed its important role in the lives of Vietnamese people as well as internationally.
With increasing scientific evidence supporting its value, lemongrass continues to be a sustainable resource, contributing to community health and cultural preservation. Using lemongrass properly not only enhances the flavor of dishes but also protects health, creates a clean living environment, and connects us with traditional cultural values.
Incorporate lemongrass into daily life to enjoy the comprehensive benefits of this remarkable plant.
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