Tall lemongrass, growing in the tropics, has been used both in the kitchen and in medicine. Its fresh leaves and stems have a clean, fresh, lemon scent. It is mainly grown throughout Southeast Asia, India, Sri Lanka, Central Africa and India. It is a great alternative for people who like such an aroma and at the same time want to avoid the acidity of lemon. What else is worth knowing about this unusual plant?
This characteristic, clean smell is due to the presence of essential oil, which is also found in the lemon peel. In the form of a spice, the best taste is fresh lemongrass (also called palmarosa), because it has a much more intense flavor, although it is also sold in dried form. As a plant, it looks quite unusual – it is long, thick and has leaves in the upper and lower part (from the root side). In cooking, only its lower, previously cut part is used.
Unusual not only in taste. Health properties
It is used in medicine, cosmetics and other fields. It is a remedy for many troublesome disease symptoms. Here are some of them:
- Headaches – a bath with lemongrass essential oil will effectively soothe severe headaches.
- Fever – this plant is characterized by a diaphoretic effect, which is why it will help in quickly lowering the high temperature with colds and flu.
- Cold symptoms – if you feel that something is taking you, reach for lemongrass. It supports the body’s immunity, so it will help fight the first symptoms of flu, and when used prophylactically, it can prevent them.
- Depression – regular drinking of lemongrass infusion stimulates the body, improves well-being and helps combat the symptoms of depression.
- Problemy z concentracją – affects cognitive processes, increases the assimilation of knowledge, improves concentration and helps to stay calm.
- Stomach problems – stimulates appetite and supports digestive processes.
Lemongrass – an ingredient in many cosmetics
Palmarczatka, however, is not only known for its taste and beneficial effects on the body. It also helps in terms of beauty, which you will find out when you find it in the composition of many good cosmetics. Thanks to its beautiful fragrance, it is used in the production of ecological perfumes and face care cosmetics. It has a great effect on the skin because it has astringent, antibacterial and refreshing properties.
Cosmetics containing lemongrass are a good solution for people struggling with oily, acne-prone skin. It reduces the secretion of sebum and is rich in vitamin A. Lubricating the skin with palmarosa infusion nourishes and gives a healthy color. Thanks to its strong antibacterial and antifungal properties, it will also help in the case of foot mycosis. It also has an excellent effect on hair – it eliminates dandruff, nourishes and prevents hair loss.