lemongrass

Action and Spectrum

Actions and Spectrum: 

The actions and spectrum of lemongrass:  

Antimicrobial: lemongrass has potent antimicrobial properties, which make it effective against a wide range of bacteria, fungi, and viruses. It has been shown to be effective against E. coli, Salmonella, Staphylococcus aureus, and Candida albicans, among others.  

Anti-inflammatory: lemongrass contains several anti-inflammatory compounds that can help reduce inflammation in the body. This makes it useful for conditions such as arthritis, muscle pain, and headaches.  

Antioxidant: lemongrass is rich in antioxidants, which help protect the body from free radical damage. This makes it useful for preventing diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and diabetes.  

Digestive: Lemongrass can help improve digestion and relieve digestive problems such as bloating, constipation, and stomach cramps.

Drug Interaction

Adverse Reaction

Frequency not defined  

Increased amylase  

Toxic alveolitis  

Increased bilirubin  

Allergic reactions

Black Box Warning

Contraindication / Caution

Contraindication/Caution: 

Allergic reactions: lemongrass can cause allergic reactions in some individuals, particularly those who are sensitive to other plants in the grass family, such as citronella and feverfew.  

Gastrointestinal issues: lemongrass has been known to cause gastrointestinal issues such as diarrhea, constipation, and stomach pain when consumed in large amounts.  

Drug interactions: lemongrass can interact with certain medications, such as diabetes medications, antihistamines, and blood thinners, among others. It’s best to consult with a healthcare provider before using lemongrass if you’re taking any medications.  

Pregnancy and breastfeeding: There aren’t enough information available about the safety of using lemongrass during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It’s best to avoid using lemongrass during these periods or consult with a healthcare provider before using it.  

Children: The safety of lemongrass for children hasn’t been established. It’s best to consult with a pediatrician before giving lemongrass to a child.  

Essential oil use: lemongrass essential oil should never be ingested, as it can be toxic. It should also be used with caution topically, as it can cause skin irritation in some individuals.

Pregnancy / Lactation

Pregnancy warnings:     

Pregnancy category: N/A 

Lactation: Excreted into human milk is unknown 

Pregnancy Categories:         

Category A: Studies that were well-controlled and met expectations revealed no risk to the fetus in either the first or second trimester. 

Category B: There were lack of studies on pregnant women and no evidence of risk to the foetus in animal experiments.   

Category C: there was evidence of risk of adverse effects in animal reproduction studies, and no adequate evidence in human studies must take care of potential risks in pregnant women.    

Category D: adequate data available with sufficient evidence of human fetal risk from various platforms, but despite the potential risk, and used only in emergency cases for potential benefits.   

Category X: Drugs listed in this category outweigh the risks over benefits. Hence these categories of drugs need to be avoided by pregnant women.    

Category N: There is no data available for the drug under this category

Pharmacology

Pharmacology:  

lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) is an herb commonly used in traditional medicine and culinary applications. It’s essential oil and extracts have been studied for their pharmacological properties, which include anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antimicrobial, and antioxidant effects.  

Pharmacodynamics:  

The primary active compounds in lemongrass are citral, geraniol, and limonene. Citral is responsible for its lemony scent and has been shown to have antimicrobial and antifungal effects. Geraniol is another compound found in lemongrass that has been studied for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. Limonene, on the other hand, has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.  

Pharmacokinetics:  

Absorption  

lemongrass oil is absorbed through the skin, and it can also be absorbed through the gastrointestinal tract if ingested. The absorption rate can vary depending on the form of lemongrass used, as well as individual factors such as metabolism and genetics.  

Distribution  

Once absorbed, lemongrass oil can travel through the bloodstream to reach different parts of the body. It has been shown to have antimicrobial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory effects, among others.  

Metabolism  

lemongrass oil is metabolized by the liver, where it is broken down into smaller compounds. Some of these compounds may have different effects than the original lemongrass oil, and they may be eliminated from the body through the urine or feces.  

Elimination and Excretion  

The elimination of lemongrass oil and its metabolites occurs primarily through the urine and feces. The rate of elimination can vary depending on individual factors such as age, health status, and kidney function.

Adminstartion

Administration:  

Here are some common ways to administer lemongrass:  

Tea: lemongrass tea is a popular way to consume the herb. To make lemongrass tea, steep 1-2 teaspoons of chopped fresh or dried lemongrass in hot water for 5-10 minutes. You can drink it hot or cold, with or without honey.  

Essential oil: lemongrass essential oil is used in aromatherapy to help reduce stress and anxiety. It can be added to a diffuser or diluted in a carrier oil and applied to the skin.  

Topically: lemongrass can be applied topically to the skin in the form of a cream or lotion. It may help relieve muscle pain and reduce inflammation.  

Cooking: lemongrass is a popular ingredient in many dishes, particularly in Southeast Asian cuisine. It can be added to soups, curries, stir-fries, and marinades for a citrusy flavor.

Patient Information Leaflet

Patient information leaflet 

Generic Name: lemongrass 

Why do we use lemongrass? 

lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) is used for various purposes, including culinary, medicinal, and therapeutic. Here are some common reasons why lemongrass is used:  

Culinary purposes: lemongrass is commonly used in cooking, particularly in Southeast Asian cuisine, to add a fresh, citrusy flavor to dishes. It is often used in soups, curries, stir-fries, marinades, and teas.  

Medicinal purposes: lemongrass has been used for centuries in traditional medicine to treat various ailments. It is believed to have anti-inflammatory, antifungal, antibacterial, and antioxidant properties. It may also help with digestion, fever, and pain relief.  

Therapeutic purposes: lemongrass essential oil is used in aromatherapy to promote relaxation, reduce stress, and relieve anxiety. It is believed to have a calming effect on the mind and body.  

Insect repellent: lemongrass has natural insect repellent properties and is often used in natural bug sprays and candles.