Lemon grass, also called lemongrass, is a popular plant in Mediterranean countries. It is characterized by many valuable healing properties that are used in natural medicine in South America and Asia. Lemongrass tea has an antispasmodic, analgesic and antitussive effect. It is also used as a means to improve memory and concentration.
Origin
Cymbopogon (lat. Cymbopogon) is a tall perennial plant from the Cereal family, consisting of about 55 varieties. It is also called lemon sorghum, lemon grass, lemon grass, citronella, lemongrass, and shuttleberry.
Grass is grown in Mediterranean countries as well as in Asia and South America. In natural medicine, lemongrass oil and tea are especially valuable. Due to its citrus aroma, the plant is widely used in perfumery. In Europe, including Russia, lemon grass is mainly used as a spice.
Description
Lemon grass is a tropical herb. It can reach a height of 1.5 m to 1.8 m. It attracts attention with very long lanceolate leaves that grow from a thick rhizome. The leaves after rubbing between the fingers emit an intense lemon smell - thanks to him, the plant was called "lemon grass". The aroma comes from the essential oils contained in the plant, exactly the same as in the lemon peel. Despite the smell, the grass is much softer and sweeter than lemon.
Lemongrass is commonly used in Asian cuisine. As a spice, you can buy it in various forms: fresh or dried, or as an essential oil.
Nutritional values
For food purposes, shoots and herbal leaves are used, which are mainly used as an additive to teas. The properties of lemongrass are determined by the content of many nutrients in its composition:
- Vitamin C
- thiamine
- riboflavin
- niacin
- Vitamin B6
- folic acid
- vitamin A.
In addition, the composition of lemon grass includes: calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus and potassium. This plant is also a valuable source of citral, a chemical compound that has antitumor activity.
Healing properties
The health benefits of lemongrass tea are vast and arouse respect among herbalists. Its therapeutic effect is recommended in case of:
- stomach discomfort - lemon grass supports metabolism and stimulates the digestive system;
- depressive states - has calming and relaxing properties;
- problems with memory and concentration;
- viral or fungal infection (in addition, the grass helps fight bacterial inflammation of the skin);
- flu or a cold;
- muscle pain and joint problems;
- elevated levels of "bad" cholesterol;
- type 2 diabetes - regulates blood glucose levels;
- menstrual cramps;
- maintaining the functioning of the immune system,
- oncological diseases.
In addition, the plant is useful in treating acne and excessive hair loss. It has a firming and anti-aging effect for the skin. Cream with lemon grass can be used to care for the skin of a child.
Lemongrass (tea) - how to brew?
Lemon grass can be used not only as a spice for exotic dishes. You can brew a useful cup of tea from the plant - especially in winter, during weakened immunity and increased susceptibility to various infections. This drink is recommended to drink at least once a day.
Making lemongrass tea is very easy. Below are three proven recipes:
Lemon Grass Tea
For brewing tea, dried or fresh raw materials are required. To get a tasty and healthy drink, you must observe some conditions:
- It is advisable to brew grass in ceramic dishes, which retains heat well.
- The ratio of the amount of raw grass and water is taken to taste, but usually one tablespoon of dry or fresh (chopped) plants is brewed with 250 ml of boiling water.
- Do not brew a drink for a long time - to prepare it, just wait 5-10 minutes.
- From the cake remaining after making the drink, you can make tea another 2-3 times.
- The finished drink can be sweetened with honey or sugar.
Black Lemongrass Tea
Make black tea (without flavors and sweeteners) from the bag, fill the bag or leaves with half the usual amount of hot water. Cut lemon grass into small pieces, brew a teaspoon of raw materials in a separate cup for about 5-10 minutes. Strain and add to the prepared black tea.
Exotic Lemon Grass Drink
In hot milk (about 250 ml) add 3-4 clove inflorescences, a teaspoon of chopped lemon grass, cinnamon and turmeric. Brew for 15-20 minutes, drink warm.
Lemongrass Tea Reviews
Lemon grass tea has many positive reviews on the Internet, as it has a beneficial effect on human health.
According to drink lovers, it supports the digestive processes and helps to create the right microflora in the intestines. It contains antiseptics that kill pathogenic bacteria and parasites living inside the digestive system. At the same time, lemon grass supports the development of beneficial microorganisms. Lemon grass tea should be consumed by people with digestive problems who suffer from heartburn, dyspepsia, bloating, vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation.
The benefits of tea are indicated by women suffering from severe pain during menstruation. Consuming two cups of lemon grass drink during this period will help alleviate pain and support the body in regulating hormonal balance.
Tea has antibacterial and antifungal activity. It helps with colds, coughs, general weakness. Vitamin C contained in the plant supports the immune system in the fight against dangerous microorganisms.
The antioxidants contained in lemongrass remove excess free radicals from the body and help maintain a younger looking skin. Researchers also found that some of them prevent the development of cancer cells.
Lemon grass has a diuretic effect, which makes it easier to rid the body of uric acid, toxins and bad cholesterol. More frequent urination also has a positive effect on the kidneys.