Discover 11 Benefits of Lemongrass for Body Health

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - The health benefits of lemongrass are often associated with the antibacterial and antifungal properties of this leaf. This spice, commonly used as a flavoring in cooking, is believed to help maintain oral and dental health, and even prevent cancer.

Lemongrass is one of the spices that resembles tall grass with leaves and stems that have a distinctive aroma. This is what makes lemongrass often added to dishes and even made into herbal tea.

As quoted by the official Alodokter.com website, the following are the health benefits of lemongrass:

1. Preventing cavities

In addition to clove oil, you can also reap the benefits of lemongrass in preventing mouth infections and cavities. This benefit has been proven in a study that revealed the antimicrobial properties of lemongrass are effective in combating the Streptococcus mutans bacteria, which cause tooth decay.

2. Relieving diarrhea

The benefits of lemongrass in addressing digestive disorders have been trusted by the community for a long time. One of the proven benefits of lemongrass in addressing digestive disorders thru research is its ability to relieve diarrhea. This benefit of lemongrass is obtained thanks to its antibacterial properties that can combat Escherichia coli bacteria. This bacterium is one of the most common causes of diarrhea. In addition, lemongrass will also slow down intestinal movement, thereby reducing the frequency of excessive bowel movements during diarrhea.

3. Overcoming stomach ulcers

In addition to treating diarrhea, lemongrass is also beneficial for alleviating other digestive disorders, such as stomach pain, stomach cramps, and even stomach ulcers.

Studies show that lemongrass essential oil can help protect the stomach lining from damage caused by aspirin consumption. Consuming aspirin is known to be the most common cause of stomach ulcers.

4. Relieving headaches and migraines

If you often experience headaches or migraines, there is no harm in using lemongrass oil when the symptoms of these conditions strike. Researchers believe that the benefits of lemongrass are derived from its eugenol compound, which has effects similar to aspirin.

5. Overcoming fungal infections

Lemongrass also has antifungal properties. This makes lemongrass effective in preventing and combating fungi, including those causing skin infections like ringworm and athlete's foot. To benefit from lemongrass, you simply need to apply lemongrass essential oil to the infected skin area.

6. Lowering blood pressure

Another health benefit of lemongrass is its ability to help lower blood pressure. This benefit is obtained thanks to the potassium content and the antioxidant saponins found in lemongrass. These two substances will dilate blood vessels and reduce high blood pressure.

7. Lowering cholesterol

High cholesterol levels are one of the risk factors for heart attacks and strokes. Lemongrass is a herbal remedy that has long been believed to lower high cholesterol. According to research, consuming lemongrass extract for at least 7 days has been proven beneficial in lowering cholesterol levels.

8. Preventing heart blockage

A study revealed that lemongrass can prevent heart blockage due to inflammation. The benefits of lemongrass are derived from its antioxidant content, particularly quercetin, which plays a role in combating free radicals. Inflammation is the initial trigger for the blockage of blood vessels in the heart or atherosclerosis.

9. Overcoming rheumatoid arthritis

Applying lemongrass oil to the painful area can help relieve pain caused by rheumatoid arthritis. The benefits of lemongrass in reducing inflammation will be felt after using lemongrass essential oil for at least 30 days.

10. Overcoming anxiety

In addition to being applied topically, inhaling lemongrass oil is also beneficial for health, particularly in reducing stress and anxiety symptoms. According to a study, inhaling lemongrass aromatherapy will make the body more relaxed, less tense, and recover more quickly from anxiety-triggering situations.

11. Reducing cancer risk

The benefits of lemongrass as an anticancer agent come from its citral content. This compound also gives lemongrass its distinctive aroma. Citral is believed to be able to inhibit the growth of certain cancer cells or boost the immune system, making it effective in fighting cancer.