Lemongrass is an herb that is native to Sri Lanka and South India but now grows in many countries around the world. The plant’s stalks are a common ingredient in Asian cooking, but it is also possible to brew lemongrass to make tea. The plant has long leaves that are similar to those of seagrasses. While an estimated 55 species of lemongrass exist, only the East Indian and West Indian varieties are suitable for use in cooking. Several researchers are interested in the health and medicinal benefits of drinking lemongrass tea. In this article, we take a look at some of the health benefits this tea may offer, and consider the evidence supporting the claims.
Many people believe that lemongrass tea offers multiple health benefits, but researchers have not yet conducted enough large-scale studies to prove these benefits. Inflammation is a factor in many adverse health conditions, including pain and heart disease. As such, lemongrass tea could be a beneficial drink for people to incorporate into their diet. Below are seven additional health benefits that may result from drinking lemongrass tea.
- Antioxidant properties
Lemongrass has been shown to have substantial free radical scavenging activity and may help to prevent oxidative stress in studies. Oxidative stress induces cell damage and is linked to a variety of chronic diseases.
- Antibacterial properties
Lemongrass oil and tea also have antibacterial properties. Lemongrass tea has been shown in studies to have the ability to cure infections. Lemongrass oil may also have potent antibacterial properties against Gram-positive bacteria.
- Anti-inflammatory properties
Lemongrass has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties in animal studies. Lemongrass contains polyphenols, mostly luteolin and tannins, which have anti-inflammatory properties.
- Analgesic effect
A cup of lemongrass tea can help to alleviate the discomfort. Lemongrass tea has been shown to have analgesic properties. Another study found that applying lemongrass oil topically to elderly patients with rheumatoid arthritis would help reduce pain levels.
- Stress-relieving activities
Lemongrass has a relaxing fragrance that can help you relax. Lemongrass has long been used in herbal medicine to relieve anxiety and stress, and even a brief inhalation of lemongrass oil can have an anxiolytic effect.
- Weight loss assistance
Lemongrass root and flowers have been shown in animal studies to help lower cholesterol. Traditional uses indicate that it can aid in weight loss and detoxification, although these claims have yet to be clinically validated.
Lemongrass Tea: How to Make It
Both new and dried lemongrass can be used to make a cup of lemongrass tea. They can be found both online and in grocery stores. Using the stalks of fresh lemongrass instead of the leaves. Instead of leaves, dried lemongrass loose leaf tea normally includes leaves. Use about 1 teaspoon of tea leaves and steep for 3-5 minutes in boiling water.
If you’re making tea with fresh lemongrass, keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to brew. The stalks should be washed, chopped, and boiled in hot water. For every cup of water, use about a third to a half cup of chopped lemongrass stalks. Bring a pot of water to a boil, then drop in the lemongrass root. Cook for 10 to 15 minutes at a low temperature. When boiling rather than brewing tea, always add a little more water because simmering on low heat reduces the amount of water.
Blend it with dried ginger bits, or make an iced tea with fresh ginger and lemongrass stalks and serve it over ice. Lemongrass is also excellent for cold brewing. For an even more vibrant green taste, add some green tea leaves to the pitcher.
