Lemongrass Essential Oil : Benefits, Uses, Safety

Overview Of Lemongrass Essential Oil

Exotic and relaxing, the unique scent of Lemongrass Oil is often found in spas to create a serene and tranquil haven. Read up on why this mood-uplifter has become the secret to relaxation.

What Is Lemongrass Essential Oil?

This herbaceous, zesty, earthy and exotic essential oil is a popular choice for aromatherapy, so it’s no wonder spas across the world uses it as a go-to scent. As a bonus, lemongrass also has a calming effect that eases anxiety and creates an ambiance for uplifted moods.

Trusted over the ages as an effective mental relaxant, Lemongrass Essential Oil is able to usher in a calming atmosphere. This oil is a concentrated solution that is extracted from the lemongrass plant. Industrially produced via steam-distillation of the Cymbopogon Flexuosus, the oil can also be extracted through a cold press. This extraction process helps harness the “essence” of the plant’s scent as well as its pest-repelling and muscle-relaxing properties.

Lemongrass essential oil can also be extracted with dense carbon dioxide using dried lemongrass leaves. A study was done in 2001 to find the composition of the extracted oil using this method. Gas chromatography and mass spectrometry methods were used to analyze the samples. The quality of oil obtained was of good quality. (1)

This plant’s powerful properties have been recorded as early as the 17th century, linking its uses to medicine – it is said to treat fungal infections, fevers, diarrhea, as well as stomach aches. Nowadays, it’s used to create a welcoming ambiance for homes and is known to be one of the critical ingredients in personal care and pest repellents.

Name	Lemongrass Essential Oil
Botanical Name	Cymbopogon
Native to	Southeast Asia
Properties	Antibacterial, antimicrobial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, analgesic, antidepressant, stomachic,
Main ingredients	Citral, bergamotene, geranyl acetate, myrcene, cadinenes, nerol, neral, citronellal, limonene, citronellol
Aroma	Strong citrusy
Blends well with	Basil, bergamot, coriander, lavandin, rose, lemon, geranium, lavender, lime, and ylang ylang essential oils
Category	Citrus
Substitute	Lemon balm or ginger + coriander essential oils

Lemongrass Essential Oil Benefits

A plant with a plethora of benefits, picking just one to focus on would be impossible. So here’s a simple guide to better understand all the potent benefits you can harness from lemongrass essential oil.

Keeps Bugs Away

High in citronella content which many insects dislike, lemongrass essential oil makes for the perfect insect repellent. Applying it before going on outdoor adventures keeps you protected from nasty bites and diffusing it at home keeps the family safe.

Refreshes & Uplifts Moods

Exuding a lemony and herbaceous scent, lemongrass essential oil is the perfect mood-booster and mental stimulant. Breathing in its awakening scent during long and tiring work days helps recharge the mind.

Improves Digestive Health

Lemongrass essential oil’s anti-inflammatory properties are great for soothing stomach aches and can even help with gastric, so you can enjoy your favorite foods with peace of mind.

Relieves Headaches & Migraines

Imbued with eugenol, a property that helps relieve pain, lemongrass essential oil is the perfect companion to help ease headaches and migraines. Eugenol also helps release serotonin which helps keeps moods on the up and up.

Promotes Healing

An oil that is imbued with remedial properties, lemongrass essential oil is often used to help with treating fevers and reducing inflammation. It can also help improve menstrual health and heal pains associated with that time of the month.

Control Cholesterol with lemongrass

Triglycerides are lipids or a type of fats in the body. These are basically calories that the body stores in the fat cells for later use. Healthy levels of triglycerides in the body are proven to bring down the bad cholesterol levels, the LDL. Use lemongrass essential oil to regulate the triglycerides level. Overall, it enables the blood to flow unobstructed through the arteries thus reducing the risk of cardiac diseases.

Research For Cancer Treatment

Can lemongrass oil inhibit the growth cancer cells in the liver? Preliminary studies report that it can. The compound citral in the oil has also shown promise against cancer cells in the lungs. The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of the oil may be helpful against different cancer types. However, more research and evidence are needed. (2)

Oil to Improve Digestion

Flatulence, indigestion, constipation, and IBS are some of the stomach problems that bother people. Lemongrass oil has proven to treat most of these issues. The oil can be topically applied with a carrier oil such as coconut oil to improve the digestion process and prevent gastric ulcers. People also drink lemongrass tea to kill the bacteria in the intestines and get over issues such as diarrhea. People use this oil as it is safe to use, but consult a doctor before using lemongrass oil internally.

Get Out Gout

It is believed that the anti-inflammatory properties of the lemongrass oil are useful in combating gout, the disease caused in the joints due to excess uric acid. More human trials are needed to ascertain the benefits scientifically.

Improve Nervous System with Lemongrass

Lemongrass oil is a nervine agent that acts as a tonic or booster for the nervous system. Effects of lemongrass essential oil can help in the treatment of nerve related diseases including neuropathy, Parkinson’s disease and convulsions. Applying the essential oil directly on the body may also improve reflexes.

Soothes Headaches

The oil has a soothing effect on touch. It can be inhaled to soothe headaches. Inhalation can be through aromatherapy, steam or direct from the bottle. It has been proven to treat headaches. The ingredient in lemongrass called eugenol is known to be better than headache treating drugs.

Detoxify With Lemongrass Oil

The oil can be massaged on the lymphatic nodes to boost its functions and remove the toxins from the body. The lymphatic nodes are present in the head and neck regions. So a thorough massage on these parts will help the body eliminate toxins.

Nice Citrusy Scent Of Lemongrass

The lemony aroma of the oil can be utilized as a deodorant, cloth freshener or room freshener. It can be mixed with water and stored in a spritzer, and use it as a mist. Few drops of essential oil of lemongrass may help aromatize toilets in the house.

Lemongrass Relaxes Muscles

How? Applying the lemongrass essential oil directly to the body increases the blood flow in that region, thus reducing muscle spasms and bringing the nutrients to the spot. Soak the feet in a lemongrass and water solution for a relaxing feel after a hectic day of travelling. The oil has powerful antioxidant properties as well and may be used in the treatment of muscle related ailments and neuromuscular disorders. Lemongrass oil foot bath is quite popular in spas.

Better Thyroid Health with Lemongrass Oil

It is said that massaging the thyroid with diluted lemongrass oil can also be effective against hypothyroidism. Further evidence is needed to substantiate this benefit.

Immunity Boosting Oil Of Lemongrass

Lemongrass essential oil also boosts the absorption of nutrients and topical application on the lymphatic nodes increases the immunity of the body. This boosts the body’s shield and protects it against illnesses.

Energizing Aromatherapy

Citrus oils are known to energize the body when inhaled (using oil diffuser). Studies have proven the efficacy of lemongrass oil can reduce stress and depression. Massaging the body with a blend of lemongrass oil and almond oil once every three weeks lowers the systolic blood pressure. Uses of lemongrass oil for aromatherapy are for its refreshing effects.

Lemongrass Oil Uses

Because it is so versatile, lemongrass essential oil is widely used by aromatherapy enthusiasts around the world. Depending on how and where you apply it, lemongrass oil can help improve your self-care routine and make your days just that much better.

1. It Has Antibacterial Properties

Lemongrass is imbued with antibacterial properties that promote wound healing and soothe bug bites. It can be applied to minor cuts, bruises as well as insect stings for instant relief and infection prevention.

Research conducted by Emmanuel C. Adukwu, Melissa Bowles, Valerie Edwards-Jones and Heather Bone, and published in 2016 analyzed the antimicrobial activity of lemongrass oil and its ingredient citral. It was tested against samples of the opportunist pathogen Acinetobacter baumannii. The research concluded that both lemongrass EO and citral not only inhibited the pathogen but killed it. Lemongrass may hence be used as an alternative to antibiotics. (3)

2. It Helps Reduce Inflammation

Packed with an anti-inflammatory compound called citral, lemongrass essential oil is perfect for reducing pain and inflammation-related health issues. This calming essential oil is also effective in easing issues related to arthritis.

3. It May Help Treat Fungal Infections

An antibacterial oil that is potent in treating fungal infection, Lemongrass Essential Oil is great for treating topical fungal infections such as athlete’s foot, and ringworm.

Lemongrass oil has been sued in traditional medicines to treat several diseases. A study was conducted by Mohamed Nadjib Boukhatem and Mohamed Amine Ferhat and others from institutes in Algeria to find the anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties of the oil. The gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis method was used to analyze geranial and neral and its effects on different strains of fungi. The results of the study concluded that lemongrass oil had the potential to be used in drugs that treated fungal infections. (4)

A young woman is doing exercise in an open area

4. It Helps Ease Muscle And Joint Pain

Bodies feel brand new, thanks to the muscle relaxing properties of lemongrass essential oil. It’s great for improving blood circulation and relieving swollen, achy joints, boosting your body’s recovery through rest and relaxation.

5. Hair Strengthening Oil

Being an antibacterial oil and conducive for growth on the scalp, lemongrass may promote hair growth, strengthen the roots and the oil also results in thicker hair.

6. Treat Dandruff with Lemongrass

Lemongrass is used as an ingredient in shampoos because of its effectiveness in eliminating dandruff. Studies found that lemongrass essential oil may help eliminate dandruff. A randomized double blind study was conducted at the School of Cosmetic Science, Mae Fah Luang University, Chiang Rai, Thailand. It was found that a tonic with lemongrass oil could be effective against dandruff when applied regularly for at least two weeks. (5)

7. Treat Cold Sores

Add a few drops of lemongrass oil (approx seven drops) to two tablespoons of carrier oil like coconut oil. Apply this mixture twice a day to the cold sore affected parts of the face. The anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties soothe the skin and treats cold sores. To avoid possible side effects, do a patch test beforehand.

8. Good Oral Health

Lemongrass oil is used as an ingredient in toothpastes and mouthwashes because of its antimicrobial properties and aroma. The oil can be mixed with water for gargling. The effect of lemongrass oil mouthwash eliminates bacteria and leaves the mouth fresh.

9. DIY Car Freshener

Few drops of the oil is mixed with water and stored in the car spritzer. The aroma of the oil fills the car and eliminates staleness inside it. Lemongrass oil comes with an energizing effect suitable for long drives.

10. Treat varicose Veins

Mix five drops of lemongrass essential oil in a cup of warm water. Use a clean cloth to soak the mixture and compress it on the affected veins, while keeping the legs elevated. Apply it for 15 minutes for calming and soothing effects.

How To Use Lemongrass Essential Oil

There are many ways to harness the many health benefits of Lemongrass Essential Oil. Some do it through inhalation and diffusion, others as topical ointments. Here’s how you can get the most out of this wonderful oil.

Lemongrass Essential Oil For Aroma Diffuser

Though one can inhale the scent of lemongrass oil straight from the bottle, using a diffuser is a more effective way to help vaporize essential oils into the air for all-day calm and relaxation. Here’s a guide on how to use lemongrass essential oil with a diffuser.

Direction To Use:

Set it up according to the manufacturer's instructions
Place it at least 2-feet above the ground to get the full benefits
Fill the tank with filtered water to reduce mineral buildup and to prolong the life of your diffuser
Don’t skimp on the essential oil! Remember, adding more oil makes the scent last longer. Most people add about 3 to 15 drops per 100ml of water
Experiment and mix & match essential oils to tailor your own unique blend of scent
Take time to explore your own diffuser and find a spray setting that suits your fancy

Lemongrass Essential Oil For A Relaxing Massage

Massaging Lemongrass Essential Oil on the body is the perfect way to reap its muscle-soothing properties. Here’s a simple way to make your own lemongrass oil infused muscle tension roller blend:

Ingredients:

Direction to Use:

Combine all the oils in a 10ml roller bottle
Fill the bottle with Jojoba Carrier Oil
Shake well before using

Enjoy lasting relief with this quick and easy lemongrass roller blend by applying it to sore spots and massaging it into your muscles.

Lemongrass Essential Oil For Skin

Lemongrass Essential Oil For Acne Treatment
Lemongrass essential oil is great for cleansing skin and is especially effective for breakout-prone skin. Historically used to remedy wounds and cuts, research today shows that it is a great tool to fight pimple-causing bacteria. Add 2–3 drops of lemongrass oil to your favorite skin cleanser to combat acne and restore your skin’s flawless beauty.

Lemongrass Essential Oil For Fungal Treatment
A plant that is great for eliminating bacteria and funguses, Lemongrass essential oil is perfect for reducing itchiness from fungal infection. This is because the oil is imbued with citral, which is also potent for eliminating yeast infections. Simply add 2–3 drops of lemongrass oil to your carrier oil of choice and apply it on the infected skin. Leave it to dry for itch-relief and heal up in a jiffy!

Benefits & Uses of Lemongrass Essential Oil

Safety With Lemongrass Essential Oil

Essential oils are great for self-care routines. However, we should also take care and follow caution when using them to keep ourselves and loved ones safe from its side effects. Generally essential oils are safe, but a few guidelines must be followed to avoid any adverse effects. Also, the oils are different, made up of different compounds. Some people may be allergic to certain compounds while others may be allergic to others. Concentrated oil must be bought after careful deliberation. Here are a few guidelines to keep in mind.

Read the label and instructions to make sure you’re using the oil correctly.
While buying essential oils be wary of the terms fragrance oil, perfume oil and natural identical oil.
The term pure essential oil can be widely seen on the bottles. These maybe made from substandard sources.
Ensure that you are not allergic to any ingredients or compounds in the oil.
Make sure to dilute the essential oil in a carrier oil for safe application.
Do not add too much of the oil in the diffuser.
Avoid using essential oils of sensitive areas like the eyes and nose.
Don’t apply it on broken skin either unless it’s mentioned on the bottle or label.
Keep it out of reach of kids and fur kids.
Do not diffuse the oil near kids and pets. Consult a doctor before doing so.
Some oils may make you sensitive to sun damage, so be sure to load up on SPF.
Check the label to see if the oil is photo-toxic.
The oil may cause embryotoxicity; consult a doctor before use.
Always do a small patch test before topical application.
If aromatherapy is performed directly from the bottle, make sure that the oil does not touch the skin.
The common unwanted effects caused by essential oils up on topical application are rashes, redness and swelling.
If you show signs of irritation, stop use and consult a health professional.
Some essential oils cannot be used by people with kidney problems, whereas some essential oils cannot be used by those with blood disorders. It is always advisable to consult a doctor about your essential oil needs and predisposition for diseases.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Does lemongrass oil help in weight loss?

Lemongrass oil aids in weight loss when used regularly. Lemongrass oil is a diuretic which increases the frequency of urination. When you pass urine, it eliminates salts and fats. This aids in weight loss. Lemongrass will not cause weight loss on its own; however, it is an excellent supplemental aid in weight loss programs.

Does lemongrass repel mosquitoes?

Lemongrass oil repels mosquitoes. It is used as an ingredient in several mosquito repellants and creams. Research has shown that the scent of lemongrass could eliminate or drive away several species of mosquitoes.

Does lemongrass oil tighten skin?

The oil has astringent properties that cause the skin tissues and cells to contract and give it firmness. It thus maintains the elasticity of the skin.

What type of skin is lemongrass good for?

Lemongrass oil can be used on different skin types, but it works wonders for oily skin types. Lemongrass oil regulates the oil secreted by the sebaceous glands. It also minimizes the pores due to its astringent properties, thus not allowing dust to clog the pores.

what does lemongrass essential oil smell like?

Lemongrass oil has a lemony and earthy or grassy aroma.

What are the major constituents of East Indian lemongrass essential oil?

The major constituents of East Indian lemongrass essential oil are geranial, neral, β-myrcene, geranyl acetate and isopulegol.

Is lemongrass oil good for lungs?

Lemongrass oil has expectorant properties that are useful for clearing the respiratory tract, thereby enabling proper breathing. The oil is also rich in iron which keeps the hemoglobin level regulated thus ensuring proper transfer of oxygen to the blood.

Is lemongrass a citrus oil?

Lemongrass oil is extracted from the Cymbopogon grass family belonging to the citrus category of plants.

Can I diffuse lemongrass oil around my dog?

The lemongrass plant (and hence its oil) has high amounts of cyanogenic glycosides which may cause side effects in dogs (vomiting, diarrhea etc.). However, a very mild concentration of the oil can be sued to clean the dog’s fur and eliminate ticks.

How do I use lemongrass essential oil to lower cholesterol?

Studies have proven the efficacy of lemongrass oil in lowering cholesterol levels. Dilute lemongrass oil and massage it on the chest, near the lowest ribs, and on the right side of the chest.

How to use lemongrass oil for hair?

Mix one or two drops of lemongrass essential oil in your regular hair oil or any carrier oils and rub it along the scalp (even to the hair tips). Gently massage the scalp to boost blood circulation and leave it on the scalp for at least an hour. It can be left on the scalp overnight as well.

Lemongrass Essential Oil Uses for Skin, Hair, and Aromatherapy