Herb Spotlight: Lemon Grass for Digestive Health

There are some delicious Thai dishes that feature lemon grass and I’m pretty sure that I’ve had tea that starred the herb as well. But I’ll be frank, I hadn’t worked much with the herb before researching this post. Turns out that this herb is almost as beneficial for the human body as turmeric is! There are countless vitamins, minerals and antioxidants packed into this little plant to make it more than worthwhile to add into the weekly or even monthly regimen.

Breakdown of Lemon Grass:

Scientific Name: Cymbopogon citratus [aka: sweet root]

Magickal Stats: Elementally air, ruled by Mercury

Improves Function Of: 

• Digestive System
• Sebaceous Glands
• Detoxification
• Immune System
• Nervous System

Aides in Relieving Symptoms of:

• Headache & Muscle Pain
• Stomachache, digestive spasms & abdominal pain
• High cholesterol
• Nervousness, vertigo & convulsions

Assists Spiritually With:

• Purify energy & thoughts
• Discovering the truth
• Aides the memory
• Access creativity & study habits

How Does It Work? There are countless healing properties in the makeup of Lemon Grass. First off it contains terpenes nerol, citronellol, myrcene, dipentene, geraniol and methyl heptenone which make it anti fungal, anti septic and an insecticide. It also contains valuable antioxidants, phenolic compounds and flavonoids that donate the countless benefits of lemon grass. Also, this herb contains Vitamin A-C along with folates for added health benefits. Lastly there are a lot of minerals in the herb including but not limited to magnesium, calcium, potassium, copper, zinc and iron. With all of these beneficial ingredients in the makeup, lemon grass is surely worth a second look for a cup of tea or an aromatherapy tool.

What Do I Do With It? Many beauty products are made with lemon grass because it can regulate the sebaceous glands to make hair and skin lustrous. Manufacture a water or vinegar wash for the body, face or hair to balance oils and wash away free radicals. Inhale the essential oil for muscle relieving and uplifting effects. Make a tea or add lemon grass to a rice or noodle dish to truly eat your medicine. Similarly, you can make an oil or alcohol decoction to use as a daily dropper supplement.