Lemongrass essential oil was used exclusively in India and Asian cultures for centuries before being introduced to the rest of the world. It quickly became one of the most popular essential oils for use in the kitchen and in health situations. It can still be used today in several different ways to improve a person’s overall health and has scientific research to back up some of these claims. The oil can be consumed in small amounts or placed directly onto the skin. It can also be inhaled. Listed below are the most common ways that lemongrass essential oil can be used as a natural medicine.
Internally
- Detox
Lemongrass is a very common ingredient to add to tea. One of the biggest reasons for this is the herb’s detoxifying properties. It is believed to detox the liver, kidneys, bladder, pancreas and digestive track. The oil is able to help the body flush out harmful toxins. If tea is not an option, try adding the oil to soup.
- Antioxidants
Most essential oils have antioxidant effects; meaning that they are able to help the body naturally rid itself of free radicals, a necessary product of the body that can sometimes reach excessive levels. Lemongrass is one of these oils. It may even be able to inhibit the growth of cancer cells, thanks to one of its main components, citral.
- Lowers Cholesterol
A study on animals found that bad cholesterol could be lowered with lemongrass oil extract. The results were parallel with the amount of oil that was administered. The consumption of the oil was shown to help the body sustain healthy levels of triglycerides and reduced the levels of bad cholesterol.
- Digestive Issues
Lemongrass oil can stimulate the bowel function of the body, which in turn improves digestion. It also increases urination, which can help to remove toxins that may be residing in the body’s inner workings, especially in the kidneys. It relieves gas pains and helps to promote healthy digestion. Research also shows that the oil may be able to cure stomach ulcers.
- Fights Flu and Cold Symptoms
Lemongrass oil can be used as a natural treatment to the common cold and flu like symptoms. It can be added to teas or diffused throughout the room. The direct application of the oil when mixed with water may help to bring down a temperature.
- Muscle Soreness and Inflammation
Lemongrass oil can be used to help relieve the pain caused by sore muscles and joints. It can be mixed with a carrier oil and applied to the problem areas. The oil should improve blood circulation which will help with back spasms and aches, sprains and cramps. The oil can also be added to a foot bath to help with tired and sore feet. For females, the oil can also be added to tea and consumed to help with cramps, nausea and irritability associated with menstruation.
Externally
- Deodorizer
Lemongrass essential oil is a natural deodorant. It can be added to homemade deodorant recipes or added to bath water for an extra boost in perspiration control. The oil can also be added to diffusers to clean the air in rooms, which can keep the body cleaner as well.
- Skin Health
Lemongrass oil is great for the skin and can heal many skin issues. It is an effective cleaner and is antiseptic which can keep skin clean and glowing. If used as a skin toner it can shrink pores and leave behind tighter skin and give off a more youthful look. There are many reports that the oil may be able to help with the appearance of cellulite.
- Fungal Infections
Lemongrass essential oil has great fungicidal properties. If a fungal infection develops on your body, such as on the feet or nail beds, try mixing the lemongrass with a carrier oil and applying to the affected area several times daily for best results.
- Hair Health
Lemongrass oil is great for the hair and is a common ingredient to add to already made products or in homemade products. The oil will strengthen hair follicles which may help with hair loss. It will also moisturize the scalp which can stop itching and irritation. The oil can be massaged directly onto the scalp, added to shampoo or made into a hair mask with a carrier oil. The oil also kills bacteria that may be found on the hair and should leave hair clean and silky.
Mental Health
- Mental Clarity
Lemongrass oil has been shown to help the nervous system. It may help get rid of nervous disorders that cause shaking hands and limbs, nervousness or vertigo. It may also help with more serious conditions like Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s disease. It helps to clear the mind and give it a boost of energy.
- Stress Reducer
Lemongrass has a familiar aroma that is calming and relaxing. Research shows that the oil may help alleviate anxiety and irritability. When used before going to sleep lemongrass may help to alleviate insomnia symptoms. The scent is sedative and hypnotic which may help improve the length and quality of a night’s sleep. If the oil is being used to help manage stress it can be added to massage oil or made into a body lotion that can be applied as needed.
- Depression
Lemongrass oil can boost self esteem and help instill confidence. When added to tea it can act as an antidepressant. It helps to increase hope and mental strength that may be lacking after large life changes, such as career issues, loneliness or the death of a family member or close friend. It may help people get through trying times without turning to prescribed medication.
Lemongrass oil can be easily found in health stores or purchased online. Be sure to confirm the quality of the essential oil before purchasing it. Before medicating with lemongrass oil, always consult with a medical professional. Stop use if there are any signs of allergic reaction, rash or irritation.
