Lemon Grass

Cymbopogon citratus

Lemon Grass (Cymbopogon citratus) is a tall, aromatic grass native to tropical regions, known for its distinctive lemony scent and various health benefits, particularly in improving digestion and reducing nausea.

Lemon Grass (Cymbopogon citratus) dried pieces of the herb arranged on a wooden table for reference

Botanical Identification

Lemon Grass, scientifically known as Cymbopogon citratus, belongs to the Poaceae family. Commonly called kaffir lime in some regions, it is a perennial herb native to tropical regions of Africa, Asia, and the Americas. The plant has long, narrow leaves with a distinct lemon scent and produces small, narrow flowers. Synonyms include Cymbopogon flexuosus and Cymbopogon nardus in herbal texts.

The following list summarize the taxonomy of plant:

  • Kingdom: Plantae
  • Division: Magnoliophyta
  • Class: Liliopsida
  • Order: Poales
  • Family: Poaceae
  • Genus: Cymbopogon
  • Species: Cymbopogon citratus

Lemon Grass Identification.

Active Compounds

Lemon Grass contains essential oils, flavonoids, and phenolic acids as its primary bioactive compounds. These compounds work together to provide its therapeutic effects, with essential oils contributing to its aromatic and anti-inflammatory properties. Flavonoids and phenolic acids support antioxidant and antimicrobial activities, enhancing the herb's overall medicinal value.

  • Essential oil
  • Flavonoid
  • Phenolic acid

Lemon Grass Compounds.

Therapeutic Indications

System Condidtion Action
Respiratory Respiratory tract infections, cough, respiratory infections, asthma, common cold Antimicrobial, expectorant, bronchodilator
Integumentary Skin infections, insect bites Antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory
Digestive Gastrointestinal inflammation, bad breath, gastrointestinal discomfort, stomach cramps, gastrointestinal issues Anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antispasmodic, carminative

Lemon Grass Actions.

Lemon Grass Uses.

Preparation Methods

Infusion: Used for digestive issues and nausea due to its calming and antispasmodic properties.

Essential oil: Used for respiratory infections and stress relief due to its antimicrobial and calming effects.

Extract: Used for anxiety and depression due to its calming and mood-stabilizing properties.

Safety Profile

Lemon grass is generally safe when used in culinary or moderate medicinal doses. However, it may cause allergic reactions in some individuals. Long-term or high-dose use could lead to liver toxicity, so caution is advised, especially for those with pre-existing liver conditions.

References

  1. Avoseh, Oyedeji, Rungqu, Nkeh-Chungag, Oyedeji. "Cymbopogon species; ethnopharmacology, phytochemistry and the pharmacological importance." Molecules (Basel, Switzerland)
  2. Carbajal, Casaco, Arruzazabala, Gonzalez, Tolon. "Pharmacological study of Cymbopogon citratus leaves." Journal of ethnopharmacology
  3. Ekpenyong, Akpan, Nyoh. "Ethnopharmacology, phytochemistry, and biological activities of Cymbopogon citratus (DC.) Stapf extracts." Chinese journal of natural medicines
  4. Kpoviessi, Bero, Agbani, Gbaguidi, Kpadonou-Kpoviessi, Sinsin, Accrombessi, Frédérich, Moudachirou, Quetin-Leclercq. "Chemical composition, cytotoxicity and in vitro antitrypanosomal and antiplasmodial activity of the essential oils of four Cymbopogon species from Benin." Journal of ethnopharmacology
  5. Madi, Choucry, Meselhy, El-Kashoury. "Essential oil of Cymbopogon citratus cultivated in Egypt: seasonal variation in chemical composition and anticholinesterase activity." Natural product research