With its fresh, citrusy scent, lemongrass oil, also called lemongrass oil, is a type of essential oil thatoften used in aromatherapyused for health and beauty. Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus, Cymbopogon flexuosus) is a tall grass that grows in tropical climates. Native to islands in Southeast Asia, it is a common spice in Thai, Indian and Chinese cuisines and is often used as a tea.
In aromatherapy, lemongrass essential oil is used to relieve inflammation, headaches, and indigestion. TheInhaleor thetopical application of the oil(mixed with carrier oils as a body oil and in hair and skin products) is said to provide a variety of benefits.
One of the most effectiveIngredientsLemongrass essential oil is citral, a fragrance that has an antimicrobial effect, meaning it destroys or suppresses the growth of microorganisms, including bacteria and fungi. Lemongrass essential oil also contains limonene, a fragrance compound that scientific research shows reduces inflammation and kills bacteria.
Essential lemongrass effect
Inhaling lemongrass essential oil or absorbing it through the skin is said to stimulate the limbic system, a region of the brain that influences the nervous system. According to aromatherapy proponents, you canEssential oils influence a number of biological factors, including heart rate, stress levels, blood pressure, breathing and immune function.
Lemongrass essential oil is commonly used for:
Acne
anxiety
Athlete's foot
Excessive sweating
Headache
Indigestion
Muscle pain
In addition, lemongrass essential oil is said to be a natural insect repellent (e.gagainst mosquitoesand ticks) and act as an air freshener and can also relieve stress and pain.
To date, few scientific studies have examined the health effects of aromatherapeutic use of lemongrass essential oil. However, several of its ingredients have been found to have anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antimicrobial, antiviral, antioxidant, antidepressant and sedative properties.
Lemongrass essential oil contains beneficial terpenes, saponins, alkaloids, steroids and flavonoids, including myrcene, citral, citronellal, nerol, geraniol and limonene. Preliminary research suggests that lemongrass essential oil may be useful for the following health problems:
Against dandruff
A 2015 study found that lemongrass essential oil could help combat dandruff. Researchers gave subjects with dandruff a hair tonic containing either lemongrass (Cymbopogon flexuosus) essential oil or a placebo twice daily. After 14 days, those who used the lemongrass hair tonic showed a significant decrease in dandruff compared to the placebo group.
fungal infections
Fragrance compounds in lemongrass essential oil have been shown to have antifungal and antimicrobial effects, and several in vitro studies have found that the oil can eliminate certain strains of fungi. However, too few human studies have been conducted to confirm its use to treat any type of fungal infection.
A 2015 report published in the “International Journal of Nanomedicine” found that lemongrass essential oil may help inhibit the growth of Candida albicans, the fungus that causes infections of the skin and mucous membranes.
A 2013 study suggests that lemongrass essential oil helps againstPityriasis versicolorcould be effective, a fungus that causes small, scaly patches on the skin (alsoTinea versicolorcalled). For the study, participants used a shampoo and cream containing lemongrass essential oil three times a week or a cream containing 2 percent ketoconazole (a drug used to treat fungal infections) twice a day. After 40 days, people treated with lemongrass showed a 60 percent reduction in symptoms, compared to 80 percent for those who used ketoconazole.
anxiety
Although there is little evidence supporting the effectiveness of lemongrass essential oil as an anti-anxiety agent, a preliminary study published in the "Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine" in 2015 found that it may have an anti-anxiety effect.
Study participants inhaled lemongrass oil (three or six drops), tea tree oil (three drops), or distilled water (three drops). Immediately after inhalation, each study participant took a color and word test. Those who inhaled lemongrass essential oil showed a reduction in anxiety and tension and recovered from anxiety more quickly than those who inhaled the tea tree oil.
Headache
Infusions and decoctions ofCymbopogon ambiguousare traditionally used in Australia to treat headaches, respiratory infections and muscle cramps. Research suggests that lemongrass may actually help relieve headaches. According to a 2011 study published in “Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine,” the active ingredient eugenol in the essential oil affects both the neurotransmitter serotonin and the action of blood platelets, two factors that lead to headaches.
Stomach problems
Lemongrass essential oil can relieve stomach pain, nausea, and diarrhea. A 2006 study found that the essential oil can slow intestinal motility and peristalsis (intestinal movement), while a 2012 study shows that it can prevent stomach ulcers. However, the research is limited to studies on mice and not humans.
Possible side effects
Lemongrass essential oil should not be taken internally without the supervision of a health professional. Internal use of lemongrass essential oil can have toxic effects.
Some people may also experience irritation when applying lemongrass oil to the skin. A patch test should be performed before using an essential oil.
Lemongrass essential oil should always be diluted in a carrier oil before applying to the skin. Avoid applying it near the eyes or mucous membranes. The recommended dosage must not be exceeded. The oil is absorbed into the skin and it can cause toxicity.
Pregnant or breastfeeding women, children, and people with liver or kidney disease or other health problems should seek advice from their healthcare provider before using essential oils.
Dosage and preparation
When combined with a carrier oil (such as jojoba, sweet almond, or avocado oil), lemongrass essential oil can be applied directly to the skin or added in small amounts to a warm bath. A ratio of 4:1 (4 parts carrier oil to 1 part essential oil) is recommended. For inhalations, you can put a drop of the oil on a tissue or in aAromatherapy Diffusersecurity guard.
What should you pay attention to?
Lemongrass essential oil is sold online and in many stores and drugstores. However, the quality can vary from brand to brand. When purchasing lemongrass essential oil, pay attention to its Latin nameCymbopogon citratus oder Cymbopogon flexuosus. If other oils are listed on the ingredient list, such as coconut oil, jojoba oil, or sweet almond oil, the product is diluted for topical use and should not be used in a diffuser or oil burner. Essential oils should be packaged in a dark bottle and stored away from sunlight.
Can lemongrass essential oil be used in cooking?
Lemongrass essential oil can be used in stir-fries, salads, soups, marinades and curries. The fragrant oil is highly concentrated, and a few drops are enoughto refine dishes. Add two to three drops at a time, stir and season to taste.
Can you use lemongrass oil to lighten your skin?
Lemongrass essential oil contains limonene, which can help brighten skin, fade dark spots, unclog pores, and reduce acne and acne scars. There is little scientific evidence to support this use. However, various suggestions indicate that this home remedy can be effective. Be sure to always dilute essential oils in a carrier oil before applying to the skin and do a patch test before using on the face.
Currently, there is little evidence to support the use of lemongrass essential oil to treat health problems. Always check with your doctor before using complementary and alternative medicine. Self-treating a chronic condition and avoiding or delaying standard care can have serious consequences.
