CategoriesPlants and Active Ingredients Guide

Citronella : Benefits, origin, use as a dietary supplement

By
Citronnelle

What is citronella?

Lemongrass, also known as Indian verbena or lemon grass, is a popular ingredient used in cooking, drinks and skincare products. This herbaceous plant, belonging to the Poaceae family, is native to South-East Asia, but is now cultivated in many tropical and subtropical regions of the world. It is renowned for its refreshing lemony scent and slightly acidic taste.

Lemongrass is widely used in Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia and Vietnam to flavour traditional dishes. It is also a key ingredient in Brazilian and Caribbean cuisine. But its uses go far beyond cooking: lemongrass is also appreciated for its medicinal properties.

Origin and culture

Citronella is native to South-East Asia, where it grows wild in tropical and subtropical regions. It is found mainly in India, Sri Lanka, Burma and Thailand. However, it is also grown in many countries in Africa, South and West America, including Brazil, Mexico, Nigeria and Ghana.

Lemongrass is relatively easy to grow, as it thrives in rich, well-drained soil and needs plenty of sun and moisture. It can be propagated by seed, but is more commonly propagated by dividing clumps. The plant can grow up to 1.5 m tall and its long, narrow leaves give off a lemony fragrance when touched.

Properties and benefits of citronella

Lemongrass is best known for its refreshing scent and its use in cooking, but it also has many health benefits. It is rich in nutrients such as iron, manganese, copper, potassium and magnesium. It also contains antioxidants and active compounds such as citronellal, citronellol and geraniol, which give it its medicinal properties.

Here are some of the most common benefits of lemongrass:

  • Reduces inflammation: Lemongrass contains antioxidant compounds that can help reduce inflammation and relieve the symptoms of inflammatory diseases such as arthritis.
  • Improves digestion: it can stimulate the production of digestive enzymes, help relieve bloating and indigestion, and prevent stomach ulcers.
  • Fights infections: its antibacterial and antifungal properties make it a natural remedy for treating food-borne infections, urinary tract infections and skin infections.
  • Regulates blood sugar levels: Lemongrass can help reduce blood glucose levels, which can be beneficial for people suffering from type 2 diabetes.
  • Relieves stress and anxiety: the lemony scent of lemongrass has soothing properties and can help reduce anxiety and stress.
  • Improves sleep quality: lemongrass can have a relaxing effect on the nervous system, which can improve sleep quality and help combat insomnia.

Use as a food supplement

Citronella has been used for centuries as a natural remedy in traditional Asian medicine. More recently, it has gained popularity as a food supplementbecause of its many health benefits.

Lemongrass is generally taken as an infusion, using dried or fresh leaves. It can also be taken in capsule form, as an essential oil or as a liquid extract. Recommended doses may vary according to individual needs and the form of the supplement.

Here are some of the health benefits of lemongrass when taken as a supplement:

  • Reduces joint pain: lemongrass's anti-inflammatory properties can help relieve joint pain, particularly in arthritis sufferers.
  • Improves digestive health: by encouraging the production of bile, lemongrass can relieve digestive problems such as bloating and nausea.
  • Reduces menopausal symptoms: Lemongrass can help reduce hot flushes, mood swings and sleep problems associated with the menopause in women.
  • Fights respiratory infections: thanks to its antibacterial and antifungal properties, it can help fight upper respiratory tract infections such as colds and flu.

It is important to note that the use of any dietary supplement should be discussed with a qualified health professional and that lemongrass should not be used as a substitute for medical treatment.

Side effects and precautions

On the whole, citronella consumption is considered safe for most adults, as long as it is used in moderation. However, certain precautions should be taken to avoid potentially harmful side effects.

Some common side effects of lemongrass may include stomach upset, diarrhoea and vomiting. It is also possible to develop allergic reactions if you are sensitive to other plants in the same family as lemongrass, such as celery and mint.

Pregnant and breast-feeding women are also advised to consult a health professional before taking lemongrass-based food supplements.

Summary

Lemongrass is a plant with a lemony taste and smell, native to South-East Asia. It has many health benefits, including reducing inflammation, improving digestion, fighting infection and relieving stress and anxiety. As a dietary supplement, it can be beneficial for relieving joint pain and menopausal symptoms, among others. However, it is important to consult a health professional before taking any citronella-based supplement, and to follow the necessary precautions to avoid negative side effects.