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Lemon grass is an aromatic herb that grows perennially in Asia. It is native to Nepal and the Indian subcontinent, and it is famous for its citrus smell and flavor. Lemon grass is used in Asian cooking because of its earthy taste as well as therapeutic benefits. It is also used to brew an herbal tea that has many antioxidants as well as other health benefits.

Availability

Growing lemon grass is relatively easy as it takes well to fertile soil and grows throughout the year. The herb can be grown in temperate climates and requires moderate amount of irrigation. It is therefore grown easily throughout Asia and is generously used in Asian cooking.

Benefits

Benefits of lemon grass are many. Some of these are as follows:

• Lemon grass antibacterial and antimicrobial action helps prevent and treat infections in the body.
• Lemon grass contains beta carotene, which is a very powerful antioxidant. Lemon grass is therefore considered an anti-carcinogenic food.
• Lemon grass oil can be vaporized to create a calming and soothing environment at your home. The aroma of lemon grass can also help relieve stress and cure insomnia.
• Extracts of lemon grass can be used as an eye medication that can be applied topically. This helps treat inflammation of the cornea and prevents double vision or blurred vision.
• The herb lemon grass helps purify your blood and detoxify the liver, pancreas, bladder, gastro intestinal tract and kidneys.
• Lemon grass tea can help boost the immune system since it is rich in antioxidants and other micronutrients.
• The extracts of lemon grass can help break uric acid crystals in the kidneys, preventing formation of kidney stones. It also helps flush out excess fats and breaks down cholesterol.
• Lemon grass can be added to cooked foods to improve digestion and treat gastroenteritis.
• It helps lose weight and tone your muscles.
• Lemon grass can also be used topically to improve skin texture and reduce pimples.
  

Other Uses

Apart from being used as a therapeutic agent, lemon grass is also used for its fragrance. The herb is known as citronella and has a very citrus flavor as well as aroma. You can use the grass for adding a delicious flavor to the food. Lemon grass extracts are also often used as a popular scent used in the manufacturing of soaps, incense, candles and perfumes. It can also be used as an insect repellant.

Warning: The reader of this article should exercise all precautionary measures while following instructions on the home remedies from this article. Avoid using any of these products if you are allergic to it. The responsibility lies with the reader and not with the site or the writer.