Lemongrass (Cymbopogon Citratus)

Cymbopogon citratus also known as Lemongrass is an herb which belongs to the grass family of Poaceae.


It is utilized for its distinct lemon flavor and citrusy aroma. It is a tall, perennial grass which is native to India and tropical regions of Asia. It is a coarse and tufted plant with linear leaves that grows in thick bunches, emerging from a strong base and standing for about 3 meters in height with a meter-wide stretch. Native to southern India and Sri Lanka, this sweet scented grass grows in large clumps up to five feet, producing narrow leaf blades and branched stalks of flowers.

PUNJAB - REGION OF AVAILABILITY

It is cultivated in tropical regions around the world, especially in Central and South America, as well as Queensland in Australia, for its oil used in perfumes, as a culinary flavouring and as a medicine.
In addition to its culinary usage, lemongrass offers an array of medicinal benefits and is in extensive demand due to its anti-bacterial, anti-fungal and anti-microbial properties across Southeast Asia, as well as the African and American continents.
Lemongrass is an aromatic storehouse of essential nutrients providing an array of health benefits. It is a source of essential vitamins such as vitamin A, vitamin B1 (thiamine), vitamin B2 (riboflavin), vitamin B3 (niacin), vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid), vitamin B6 (pyridoxine), folate and vitamin C. It also provides essential minerals such as potassium, calcium, magnesium, phosphorous, manganese, copper, zinc and iron, which are required for the healthy functioning of the human body. It offers no harmful cholesterol or fats.
As we mentioned before lemongrass essential oils are used in aromatherapy to relieve muscle pain, kill bacteria and ward off insects. Also great as an aid in menstrual cramps, it works as a gastric protector for ulcers, it relieves headache and fever, it has a positive effect on cholesterol levels and due to its antioxidant effect on the immune system it is used as a treatment of common colds and flu.
Ref.
. 2011 Jan-Mar; 2(1): 3–8.
doi:
10.4103/2231-4040.79796 J Young Pharm. 2012 Jan-Mar; 4(1): 28–32.