Cymbopogon citratus
Cymbopogon citratus · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (46 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Cymbopogon citratus, commonly known as lemongrass, is a versatile plant primarily utilized for its potent bioactive properties. The leaves of this species serve as a rich source of essential oils and aqueous extracts containing key chemical compounds such as citral, citronellol, and various flavonoids. These constituents provide significant antioxidant, antibacterial, antifungal, and antimicrobial activities that are highly valued in medicinal applications. Research suggests that these extracts can effectively combat oxidative stress and target pathogens like Staphylococcus aureus. Furthermore, the plant's therapeutic potential extends to addressing complex health conditions, including malaria.
- Synonyms
- Andropogon Cerifer · Cymbopogon Nardus Subvar. Citratus · 3 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Poaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Leaf
Classification
Common Names
Cymbopogon citratus is a versatile plant recognized globally by a diverse array of local names. In many regions, it is affectionately known as Capim-cidreira or simply as Citronella and Citronella. Depending on the cultural context, you might also encounter it referred to as Hierba luisa. Furthermore, it is frequently called Lemoengras in various botanical circles. These varied common names highlight the wide geographic reach and widespread use of this aromatic grass.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Cymbopogon citratus is a versatile plant known by several different botanical names depending on the taxonomic classification used. Throughout scientific history, it has been identified by synonyms such as Andropogon cerifer and Andropogon citratus. Researchers have also documented it under the names Andropogon nardus subsp. cerifer and Andropogon roxburghii. Furthermore, the variety is sometimes referred to as Cymbopogon nardus subvar. citratus in various botanical records. Understanding these overlapping relationships is essential for accurate identification and study within the plant kingdom.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Cymbopogon citratus is a fascinating specimen that belongs to the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast biological realm, the plant is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It further belongs to the order Poales, which helps define its structural characteristics. As a member of the family Poaceae, it shares evolutionary traits with many well-known grasses. Ultimately, this species is identified by its specific genus, Cymbopogon.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Cymbopogon |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Cymbopogon citratus displays a broad and diverse distribution across the African continent. In Northern Africa, this plant is firmly established within the territories of Algeria, Egypt, and Morocco. Its presence extends into East Tropical Africa, where it can be found throughout Tanzania. Furthermore, the species reaches into South Tropical Africa, specifically inhabiting regions of Angola. This wide geographical range highlights the plant's ability to thrive in various African climates.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Cymbopogon citratus is a self-supporting herb characterized by its robust and upright growth form. This plant typically reaches a maximum height of 1.75 meters, making it a prominent feature in its environment. Its structural integrity allows it to thrive while maintaining a consistent and sturdy presence.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Cymbopogon citratus, commonly known as lemongrass, demonstrates a versatile range of biological activities that highlight its significant medicinal potential. Research confirms its strong antioxidant properties, which help protect against oxidative stress and cellular apoptosis. The plant also exhibits potent antimicrobial, antibacterial, and antifungal activities, making it effective against various pathogens including E. coli and several fungal strains. Furthermore, studies have specifically identified its promising antimalarial activity, showing effectiveness in both prophylactic and therapeutic experimental models. These diverse capabilities support the continued investigation of the plant as a valuable resource for developing natural therapeutic options.
Compounds
Cymbopogon citratus is a versatile medicinal plant characterized by a rich profile of diverse bioactive compounds. Scientific analysis reveals that the plant contains essential constituents such as citral and citronellol, which contribute to its significant pharmacological activities. Furthermore, its chemical composition is notable for a high presence of terpenoids, providing a robust foundation for its antimicrobial properties. The plant also serves as a rich source of polyphenols, which are frequently studied for their potential anti-inflammatory effects. Within these phenolic compounds, specific flavonoids have been identified, further highlighting the complex phytochemical makeup of this economically valuable species.
Conditions
Cymbopogon citratus exhibits significant therapeutic potential by treating Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli through its potent antibacterial properties. The plant is also highly effective in treating malaria, with research demonstrating its ability to provide both prophylactic and active antimalarial benefits. Furthermore, Cymbopogon citratus serves to treat oxidative stress by protecting cells against reactive oxygen species and inducing antioxidant enzymes. Its high concentration of bioactive compounds ensures it effectively treats antioxidant needs, helping to neutralize free radicals. These multifaceted biological activities highlight the plant's value as a natural agent for combating bacterial infections, parasitic diseases, and oxidative damage.
Preparations
Cymbopogon citratus is prepared as essential oils for various applications, including studies on larvicidal activity against Aedes aegypti and antifungal control of Colletotrichum gloeosporioides. Research also shows that Cymbopogon citratus is prepared as essential oil to investigate its antinociceptive effects in mice and its antibacterial properties against zoonotic enteropathogens. Furthermore, Cymbopogon citratus is prepared as extracts, such as ethanolic preparations, to evaluate antioxidant and synergistic antibacterial activities. The plant is also prepared as aqueous extracts for use in testing antifungal potency against tomato grey mould and for assessing metal concentrations. Finally, Cymbopogon citratus is prepared as methanolic extracts to screen for trypanocidal activity, anti-Candida effects, and anti-dengue potential.
Parts used
Cymbopogon citratus possesses significant therapeutic potential derived primarily from its leaves. The essential oil extracted from these leaves has demonstrated notable antinociceptive effects, acting on both peripheral and central levels to inhibit pain responses in animal models. Furthermore, this plant serves as a highly effective natural larvicide against Aedes aegypti larvae, outperforming other medicinal plants in comparative studies. Aqueous extracts of the leaf also exhibit strong antibacterial properties against various pathogenic organisms, suggesting a role in treating reproductive-related infections. However, research also indicates that the extract can influence mitotic indices, highlighting the complex biological activity inherent in this species.