Fresh Lemongrass – Aromatic Herb with Surprising Health Benefits

1. General Introduction to Fresh Lemongrass

1.1. Origin and Botanical Characteristics

Fresh Lemongrass, scientifically known as Cymbopogon citratus, belongs to the grass family (Poaceae). It is a tall tropical grass that grows in dense clumps and is primarily native to Southeast Asian countries such as Vietnam, Thailand, Malaysia, and India. (1)

Fresh lemongrass can be identified by its long, slender leaves with slightly rough edges and a swollen base (bulb) that is typically white or pale green. When crushed or finely chopped, lemongrass releases a mild, refreshing citrus aroma similar to lemon but without the sharp sourness. This distinctive fragrance is what has established the name “Lemongrass” on the global spice map.

1.2. Global Commercial Value

(Data reference: USDA National Nutrient Database)

3.2. Supports a Healthy Digestive System

Lemongrass has traditionally been used to support digestion, and modern research supports this application. The herb helps stimulate the digestive system and may relieve indigestion, constipation, and other stomach-related issues. Its antispasmodic properties can also help reduce stomach cramps and bloating.

Studies suggest that lemongrass tea may help increase the production of gastric mucus, thereby protecting the stomach lining from damage caused by excess acid. This may explain its long-standing use as a natural remedy for stomach pain and acid reflux in various traditional medicine systems. (4)

3.3. Supports Blood Pressure Regulation and Cardiovascular Health

Hypertension affects millions of people worldwide, and lemongrass may provide natural support in maintaining healthy blood pressure levels. This herb contains potassium, which helps balance the effects of sodium in the body.

Additionally, citral, a key compound found in lemongrass, has been shown to possess vasodilatory effects, helping blood vessels relax and expand, which may reduce resistance to blood flow. The mild diuretic effect of lemongrass tea may also help reduce fluid retention.

Although it should not replace prescribed medications, regular consumption of lemongrass may complement other lifestyle measures aimed at supporting cardiovascular health. (5)

3.4. Reduces Stress, Anxiety, and Improves Sleep Quality

The aroma of fresh lemongrass can directly influence the central nervous system. Its refreshing scent may stimulate the brain to release serotonin, a hormone associated with feelings of happiness and relaxation.

In aromatherapy, lemongrass is often used to help relieve anxiety disorders, reduce stress after a long day of work, and support the management of chronic insomnia. A warm cup of lemongrass tea combined with a small amount of honey before bedtime can serve as a gentle and natural sleep aid. (6)

3.5. Antibacterial Properties

The essential oil fraction of lemongrass has shown antibacterial activity against various bacteria, including Bacillus subtilis, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella paratyphi, and Shigella flexneri.

This antibacterial activity primarily comes from the essential oil’s major components, citral, which consists of α-citral (geranial) and β-citral (neral). These compounds are effective against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. In contrast, the compound myrcene does not exhibit significant antibacterial activity when isolated. Additionally, lemongrass essential oil retains its antibacterial effectiveness even after oxidation. (7)

• Thai Cuisine: Lemongrass is a key ingredient that forms the soul of famous Thai dishes such as Tom Yum soup, Tom Kha Gai, and traditional Thai curries like Green Curry and Red Curry.

• Vietnamese Cuisine: It is widely used in grilled dishes (such as lemongrass grilled chicken and lemongrass-marinated grilled pork), noodle dishes (for example, Bún bò Huế, which is known for its distinctive lemongrass aroma), and dipping sauces like lemongrass fish sauce for snails.

• Beverages: Fresh lemongrass tea and drinks such as peach–orange lemongrass tea are popular beverages, refreshing during the summer and warming during colder seasons.

4.2. In the Cosmetics and Personal Care Industry

Extracts from fresh lemongrass are widely used in the production of:

• Soaps and Body Washes: Thanks to their antibacterial properties and refreshing natural fragrance.

• Hair Care Products: Lemongrass essential oil helps cleanse the scalp, reduce dandruff, and stimulate hair follicles, promoting stronger and healthier hair.

• Natural Mosquito Repellents: The compound citronella found in lemongrass is a natural enemy of mosquitoes. Skin creams and mosquito-repellent sprays derived from lemongrass are widely trusted by parents as a safer alternative to chemical repellents containing DEET, particularly for protecting young children.

4.3. In Therapeutic and Traditional Medicine

Fresh lemongrass is often used in steam therapy (sauna) or herbal steam baths for relieving colds and flu symptoms. The steam combined with lemongrass essential oil enters the respiratory system, helping to clear nasal passages, reduce coughing, loosen mucus, and effectively relieve symptoms associated with colds.

5.1. How to Select High-Quality Fresh Lemongrass

• Color and Appearance: Choose lemongrass stalks that are thick, firm, and feel heavy for their size. The base should be creamy white or pale green and appear juicy. The outer leaf layers should be intact and fresh, without signs of wilting, cracking, or dark spots (which may indicate fungal contamination).

• Aroma: High-quality fresh lemongrass releases a light citrus fragrance even before it is crushed or cut. Avoid stalks that have little to no aroma or produce a sour or musty smell.

5.2. Proper Preparation Techniques

• Step 1: Trim off the tough root end and remove about 1–2 inches of the green leafy top. (The leafy portion can be kept for boiling hair-rinse water or brewing herbal tea.)

• Step 2: Peel away 1–2 outer layers of tough, fibrous skin until the tender white inner core is exposed.

• Step 3: Depending on the intended use, the lemongrass can be lightly crushed (ideal for soups, broths, and hot pots to release essential oils) or finely minced (for marinades, grilled dishes, or meat mixtures).

5.3. Methods for Long-Term Storage of Fresh Lemongrass

• Short-Term Storage (1–2 weeks): Wrap fresh lemongrass tightly in a slightly damp paper towel, place it in a zip-lock bag or airtight container, and store it in the refrigerator.

• Long-Term Storage (up to 6 months): Cut the lemongrass into small pieces or mince it finely, divide into portion-sized amounts, and store in ice trays or vacuum-sealed bags before freezing. Frozen lemongrass can retain up to 90% of its original flavor.

• Water Storage Method: Place the lemongrass stalks upright in a glass of clean water (with 2–3 cm of the base submerged) and keep it at room temperature away from direct sunlight. Replace the water daily. With this method, the lemongrass can remain alive and fresh for several weeks.

6. Important Considerations When Using Fresh Lemongrass

Although lemongrass has been recognized by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) for use in food, several precautions should still be considered when consuming fresh lemongrass in large amounts for medicinal purposes:

1. Pregnant Women: Caution is advised when consuming highly concentrated lemongrass tea or lemongrass essential oil, as high doses may stimulate blood flow to the pelvic area and potentially pose risks during pregnancy. However, using lemongrass as a culinary herb in daily meals is generally considered safe.

2. Individuals with Kidney Conditions: Lemongrass has natural diuretic properties. Therefore, individuals with existing kidney conditions should consult a healthcare professional before using lemongrass regularly as part of a detoxification or cleansing regimen.

3. Drug Interactions: Fresh lemongrass may interact with certain medications, particularly those that slow heart rate or are prescribed to treat high blood pressure.

4. Allergic Reactions: Although rare, some individuals with sensitive skin may experience allergic reactions such as rashes or itching when directly exposed to the sap of fresh lemongrass or concentrated lemongrass essential oil.

7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Fresh Lemongrass

Q1: Is it good to drink fresh lemongrass water every day?

Although lemongrass water offers many health benefits, it should not completely replace regular drinking water. The recommended intake is 1–2 cups of lemongrass tea per day (approximately 200–400 ml) to support digestion and help reduce stress. Excessive consumption may cause internal heat or place extra strain on the kidneys due to its diuretic properties.

Q2: How can I grow fresh lemongrass at home?

It is very simple. Buy fresh lemongrass from a market and choose healthy, thick stalks. Trim the top leaves and place the base of the stalks in a glass of water in a well-lit area. After 1–2 weeks, new roots will begin to grow. At that point, you can plant the stalks in loose soil and water them regularly. Soon, you will have a thriving lemongrass plant in your home garden.

Q3: Which is better: fresh lemongrass or dried lemongrass?

In terms of flavor, fresh lemongrass is superior because it retains its natural volatile aromatic compounds, making it ideal for cooking. However, dried lemongrass is more convenient for storage and is commonly used for herbal teas or in traditional herbal medicine preparations. Both forms are beneficial, and the choice depends on your intended use.

Q4: Are lemongrass stalks and lemongrass leaves used for different purposes?

Yes. Lemongrass stalks are softer and contain the highest concentration of aromatic essential oils, which makes them ideal for culinary applications. Lemongrass leaves, on the other hand, are tougher and more fibrous, so they are typically used for herbal baths, steam therapy, mosquito repellent preparations, or for boiling to make herbal tea, after which the leaves are usually discarded.

Conclusion

Fresh Lemongrass is far more than just a common culinary herb—it is truly a valuable gift from nature. With its rich nutritional profile, powerful antioxidant compounds, and remarkable versatility across culinary, therapeutic, and industrial applications, fresh lemongrass rightfully deserves a place in a healthy lifestyle for every household.

Understanding how to properly select, prepare, and use fresh lemongrass not only enhances the flavor of your culinary creations but also offers a natural and safe way to support overall health for yourself and your loved ones.