Lemongrass and the centuries-old tradition of relieving digestive problems

Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) has been used for millennia in traditional medicine, such as Ayurveda and Chinese medicine. It thrives in tropical and subtropical regions, and particularly in South-East Asia, Africa, and Latin America. 

It is valued for its versatility, from its use in the manufacture of textiles and as a natural fragrance in cosmetics, to its application in gastronomy, aromatherapy, and traditional medicine. This article will focus in particular on its healing effects, which have long been recognised in traditional medicine and are gradually being investigated by modern science. 

What is lemongrass and what are its properties?

Lemongrass is a tropical plant in the family of grasses (Poaceae) that grows in dense clumps and can reach up to a height of 1.5 to 1.8 metres. Although it looks like ordinary grass, it has a distinctive lemony smell, hence its name. 

Its refreshing scent and flavour make it highly valued in Asian cuisines. However, its use does not end in the kitchen. Citral, the main constituent of the essential oil of lemongrass, is what gives it its characteristic citric scent, as well as most of its biological effects.
 
 Citral is known for its antifungal and antimicrobial properties, making lemongrass indispensable in traditional medicine, where it is used to ease various complaints, from digestive problems to tension. 

Lemongrass not only contains citral, but other bioactive compounds such as flavonoids, geraniol and limonene, which have been associated with anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antifungal, and antioxidant effects. It also contains small amounts of vitamins (folate, vitamins C and A) and minerals (potassium and magnesium), but due to the way in which it is consumed (as a tea, spice or tincture), it is not an important dietary source of vitamins and minerals. Therefore, we can say that its potential benefits are mainly due to bioactive compounds such as citral and polyphenols. 

Lemongrass in folk medicine: one herb, countless uses

People have always relied on the healing power of plants. According to World Health Organization (WHO) figures from 2007, 80% of the population in developing countries still uses traditional herbal remedies to treat common health problems. 

One of the most popular medicinal plants is lemongrass, which has a long history of use in many traditional practices. The ancient records of these cultures show that lemongrass was used for: 

• bacterial infections, 
• digestive problems,
• fever and headache, 
• coughs and colds,
• malaria,
• anxiety,
• stimulating menstruation,
• rheumatic symptoms,
• natural disinfection,

and for countless other purposes. 

Sounds almost like a miracle herb, doesn’t it? But what does science have to say about it? 

What is the scientific view on lemongrass?

It should be noted that many of the herbal active substances used in modern medicine have a historical basis in folk medicine. Many herbs that were used by our ancestors intuitively are now receiving scientific support.

In the case of lemongrass, research is mainly focused on the effects of individual bioactive substances, especially citral and polyphenols, and so far it has confirmed that they have antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and sedative effects. In addition, the findings suggest its potential as a natural diuretic and vasodilator, which may help in lowering blood pressure. Further research is also looking into its potential for lowering blood sugar levels and regulating the lipid profile (cholesterol). 

What about the effect of lemongrass on the digestive system?

Among the most common ailments of modern times are digestive problems such as bloating, irritable bowel syndrome, chronic diarrhoea, constipation and so on – conditions that traditional cultures have for millennia relieved with lemongrass. In Ayurveda, lemongrass is used to soothe stomach upsets, reduce bloating, and stimulate enzyme production, which improves digestion and nutrient absorption. 

Some studies have shown that lemongrass extracts have spasmolytic effects, meaning that they have the ability to relax the smooth muscles in the digestive tract and help relieve cramps. In addition, the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of the substances it contains have protective effects on the intestinal mucosa.  

One study found that lemongrass extract could help with constipation by stimulating intestinal peristalsis through its various interactions with the intestinal nerves, the intestinal muscular wall and gut microbiota. 

However, it is important to note that much of this research is still in its early days. Most of these studies have been carried out in animals or under laboratory conditions, so although the results are promising, it will take many more clinical studies to confirm these effects in humans. On the other hand, the millennia of traditional use of lemongrass for the relief of digestive problems point to its great benefits. 

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