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Lemongrass essential oil has analgesic, anti-inflammatory, relaxing and more properties.

Edited and resized image by Kelly Sikkema is available on Unsplash

Lemongrass essential oil is extracted from the tropical grass of the Cymbopogon genus, widely used in cooking, herbal medicine and cosmetology. Extracted from the leaves and stems of lemongrass, the essential oil has a powerful citrus aroma.

Although lemongrass has traditionally been used to treat digestive problems and high blood pressure, its essential oil has many other potential health benefits. That's why it's becoming a natural alternative to aromatherapy to help relieve stress, anxiety, and depression. Check out its benefits:

1. Antibacterial properties

Lemongrass is used as a natural remedy to heal wounds and help prevent infections. Research has found that lemongrass essential oil is effective against a variety of drug-resistant bacteria, including those that cause:

• Skin infections
• Pneumonia
• blood infections
• Serious Bowel Infections

2. Antifungal

According to one study, lemongrass essential oil helps fight certain types of harmful fungi that cause ringworm. The researchers found that to be effective, the lemongrass essential oil solution in the solution must be 2.5%.

3. Anti-inflammatory

Chronic inflammation causes many health problems, including arthritis, cardiovascular disease and even cancer. Lemongrass contains citral, an anti-inflammatory compound.

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According to one study, lemongrass essential oil showed powerful anti-inflammatory abilities in edema.

4. Antioxidant

Antioxidants help the body fight free radicals that damage cells. Research has shown that lemongrass essential oil helps to scavenge free radicals.

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According to one study, the mouthwash containing lemongrass oil showed significant antioxidant activity. The researchers suggest that it is a potential complementary therapy for non-surgical dental procedures and gingivitis.

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5. Prevents gastric ulcer and relieves nausea

Lemongrass is used as a folk remedy for a range of digestive problems, ranging from stomach pains to gastric ulcers. According to one study, lemongrass essential oil helps prevent gastric ulcers, a common cause of stomach pain. It is also a common ingredient in herbal teas and nausea supplements. Although most herbal products use dried lemongrass leaves, using the essential oil for aromatherapy can provide similar benefits.

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6. Good for diarrhea

Diarrhea is usually just a nuisance, but it can also cause dehydration. Some diarrhea remedies can have unpleasant side effects - such as constipation - leading some people to look for alternatives.

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According to one study, lemongrass can help reduce diarrhea. The study showed that the oil reduced castor oil-induced fecal production.

7. It can help lower cholesterol

Lemongrass is traditionally used to treat high cholesterol and control heart disease. One study found that lemongrass essential oil significantly lowered cholesterol in mice that were given a high-cholesterol diet for 14 days. The positive reaction was dose dependent, meaning that its effects changed when the dose was changed.

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8. Helps regulate blood sugar and fat

Lemongrass essential oil may help lower blood sugar in people with type 2 diabetes, according to one study. The results also showed that it altered lipid (fat) parameters while increasing so-called good cholesterol (HDL) levels.

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9. Can act as a pain reliever

The citral in lemongrass essential oil can help relieve pain as it relieves inflammation. According to a study of people with rheumatoid arthritis, the topical use of lemongrass essential oil decreases arthritis pain. On average, pain levels were gradually reduced from 80 to 50% within 30 days.

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10. Relieves stress and anxiety

High blood pressure is a common side effect of stress. Many studies have shown that aromatherapy relieves stress and anxiety. Combining aromatherapy with massage can bring even more benefits.

A study that evaluated the effects of lemongrass and sweet almond massage oil showed that participants who received massage using the oil once a week for three weeks had lower diastolic blood pressure than those in the control group. Systolic blood pressure and pulse rate were unaffected.

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11. Relieves headaches and migraines

According to researchers, native Australian lemongrass can alleviate pain caused by headaches and migraines. Researchers believe that a compound called eugenol has aspirin-like properties.

Eugenol prevents the accumulation of platelets in the blood and also releases serotonin. Serotonin is a hormone that regulates mood, sleep, appetite and cognitive functions.

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How to use

Most scientific research on lemongrass essential oil has been carried out on animals or in vitro - and not in humans. As a result, there is no standard dose to treat any condition. It is unclear whether doses in animals would have the same effects in humans.

To use lemongrass in aromatherapy, add up to 12 drops of essential oil to 1 teaspoon of carrier oil, such as coconut oil, sweet almond oil, or jojoba oil. Test a small area on the inside of the elbow and wait 24 hours. If no adverse reaction occurs, use in other desired areas. Mix in a hot bath or massage your skin. Never apply essential oils directly to your skin.

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You can also inhale lemongrass oil using a diffuser, cotton ball, or handkerchief. Some people massage the diluted essential oil into their temples to help relieve headaches.

Possible side effects and risks

Lemongrass essential oil is highly concentrated. Its side effects are not well studied. In some people, they may be stronger than the side effects of the lemongrass plant.

Lemongrass can cause an allergic reaction or skin irritation when used topically.

Other reported side effects of lemongrass include:

• Dizziness
• Somnolence
• Increased appetite
• Increased urination

Essential oils can be toxic when ingested. Do not drink lemongrass essential oil.

In plant form, lemongrass is generally safe for use in food and drink. Higher amounts may increase your risk of developing side effects.

You should also seek medical advice before using if:

• You have diabetes or low blood sugar;
• Have a respiratory condition such as asthma;
• You have liver disease;
• Does chemotherapy;
• You are pregnant;
• Breastfeeding.

Do not use lemongrass as add-on therapy or in place of your regular treatment for any condition unless you are under medical supervision.

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