Lemon grass

Description:

Cymbopogon citratus is often sold in stem form. While it can be grown in warmer temperate regions (such as the UK), it is not hardy to frost. In the folk medicine of Brazil, it is believed to have anxiolytic, hypnotic, and anticonvulsant properties,[3][4] but at least one study has found no effect on humans.[5] Laboratory studies have shown cytoprotective, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties in vitro,[6][7][8] as well as antifungal properties[9] (though Cymbopogon martinii was found to be more effective in that study). Citronellol, which is thought to possess antihypertensive properties, is an essential oil constituent from Cymbopogon citratus, Cymbopogon winterianus, and Lippia alba. Citronellol has been shown to lower blood pressure in rats by a direct effect on the vascular smooth muscle leading to vasodilation.[10] In a small, randomised, controlled trial, an infusion made from C. citratus was used as an inexpensive remedy for the treatment of oral thrush in HIV/AIDS patients.[11] Lemon grass contains 65-85% citral and active ingredients such as myrcene, an antibacterial and pain reliever; citronella; citronellol; and geranilol.[12] Hydrosteam distillation, condensation, and cooling were used to separate the oil from the water. Hydrosol or Hydrolat, as a by-product of the distillation process, is a pure natural water or plant water essence used for the production of skin care products such as lotions, creams, and facial cleansing toner in its pure form. The main products are organic unadulterated lemon grass oil (for industrial users), and “negros oil” (mixture of lemon grass oil with virgin coconut oil) used in aromatherapy.[13]