Lemongrass, scientifically known as Cymbopogon citratus, is a tropical grass with a distinct lemony aroma and flavor. It is widely used in various culinary and medicinal applications due to its refreshing taste and potential health benefits. It is a popular ingredient in Asian cuisine, particularly in Thai, Vietnamese, and Indonesian dishes. It adds a citrusy and herbal note to soups, curries, stir-fries, teas, and marinades. Lemongrass is often used as a natural flavoring agent in beverages, desserts, and herbal infusions.

Lemongrass has been traditionally used to support digestive health. It contains compounds that can help relieve bloating, stomach cramps, and indigestion. Lemongrass tea, in particular, is known for its soothing effect on the digestive system. Certain compounds found in lemongrass, such as citral and geranial, possess anti-inflammatory properties. These properties may help alleviate inflammation-related conditions such as arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease.

Lemongrass has natural antimicrobial properties, making it useful for combating bacteria and fungi. It has been studied for its potential in inhibiting the growth of various pathogens, including those responsible for skin infections and oral health issues. The essential oil derived from lemongrass has analgesic properties that may provide temporary relief from muscle pain, headaches, and migraines when applied topically or used in massage oils.

The aroma of lemongrass is often associated with relaxation and stress reduction. It is frequently used in aromatherapy to promote a sense of calmness and alleviate anxiety.

Some studies suggest that lemongrass may help lower cholesterol levels. Certain compounds in lemongrass have shown promising effects on reducing LDL (bad) cholesterol and increasing HDL (good) cholesterol in animal studies, although more research is needed to confirm these effects in humans.