# Lemon Grass (Cymbopogon citratus)

**Canonical URL:** https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/ingredients/lemon-grass
**Data Source:** Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia
**Updated:** 2026-03-29
**Evidence Score:** 2 / 10
**Category:** Southeast Asian
**Also Known As:** Cymbopogon citratus, Lemongrass, Citronella grass, Fever grass, West Indian lemon grass, Sereh, Takrai, Hierba luisa, Capim-cidrao, Tanglad, Bhustrina, Sera

## Overview

Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) contains citral and other terpenoids that provide antibacterial and [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) effects. The flavonoids and phenolic acids in lemongrass demonstrate [neuroprotective](/ingredients/condition/cognitive) properties and potential antidiabetic activity through [antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) mechanisms.

## Health Benefits

• Antibacterial properties from terpenoids, as demonstrated in preclinical studies.
• [Neuroprotective effect](/ingredients/condition/cognitive)s attributed to flavonoids and phenolic acids, supported by animal studies.
• Potential antidiabetic activity due to bioactive compounds, as shown in preclinical research.
• [Anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) benefits noted in laboratory analyses of its chemical constituents.
• Possible antineoplastic potential from sesquiterpenes like β-elemene, indicated in preclinical investigations.

## Mechanism of Action

Lemongrass exerts its effects primarily through citral and other terpenoids that disrupt bacterial cell membranes and inhibit [inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) mediators like TNF-α and IL-6. The flavonoids quercetin and luteolin provide [neuroprotective effect](/ingredients/condition/cognitive)s by scavenging free radicals and modulating [oxidative stress](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) pathways. Phenolic compounds may enhance [insulin sensitivity](/ingredients/condition/weight-management) by activating AMPK pathways and reducing glucose absorption.

## Clinical Summary

Current evidence for lemongrass is primarily from preclinical studies, with limited human clinical trials available. Animal studies have demonstrated antibacterial activity against various pathogens and [neuroprotective effect](/ingredients/condition/cognitive)s in [oxidative stress](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) models. Small preliminary human studies suggest potential [blood glucose](/ingredients/condition/weight-management)-lowering effects, but larger randomized controlled trials are needed. The [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) properties have been documented in cell culture studies but require validation in human subjects.

## Nutritional Profile

Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) is primarily used as a flavoring/herbal ingredient rather than a macronutrient source, but contains measurable nutritional and bioactive constituents. Per 100g fresh weight: Calories ~99 kcal, Carbohydrates ~25.3g, Protein ~1.8g, Fat ~0.5g, Dietary Fiber ~0.5g. Key micronutrients include Folate ~75 µg (19% DV), Potassium ~723 mg, Magnesium ~60 mg, Iron ~8.17 mg (notably high, though bioavailability is limited by phytate content), Calcium ~65 mg, Zinc ~2.23 mg, Manganese ~5.24 mg, Phosphorus ~101 mg, Copper ~0.27 mg, Vitamin C ~2.6 mg, Vitamin A ~6 µg RAE, Niacin (B3) ~1.1 mg, Riboflavin (B2) ~0.13 mg. Primary bioactive compounds: Essential oil constituents include Citral (geranial + neral) comprising 65–85% of essential oil — the dominant terpenoid aldehyde responsible for lemon aroma and primary bioactivity. Myrcene ~12–20% of essential oil. Geraniol ~3–5%. Limonene ~2–4%. Flavonoids present include Luteolin (~0.5–1.2 mg/g dry weight), Quercetin (~0.3–0.8 mg/g dry weight), Apigenin (trace amounts). Phenolic acids include Chlorogenic acid, Caffeic acid, and p-Coumaric acid at combined concentrations of ~2–5 mg/g dry weight. Terpenoids beyond citral include Citronellal, Linalool, and Terpinolene at minor concentrations (<5% essential oil each). Total polyphenol content ranges from approximately 15–30 mg GAE/g dry weight depending on extraction method. Bioavailability notes: Iron content is non-heme form with absorption estimated at 2–8% due to concurrent phytate and oxalate presence; Vitamin C co-consumption can enhance iron absorption. Citral and other volatile terpenoids are significantly reduced by prolonged heat during cooking (~30–50% loss upon boiling). Flavonoids such as luteolin and quercetin have moderate oral bioavailability (~5–10%) but are enhanced by fat co-ingestion due to their lipophilic character. Lemongrass is typically consumed in small culinary quantities (5–15g per serving), so micronutrient contributions per meal are modest; medicinal concentrations are generally achieved via standardized extracts or teas.

## Dosage & Preparation

No clinically studied dosage ranges for lemon grass are available due to the absence of human trials. Essential oil compositions are reported but not standardized for dosage. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.

## Safety & Drug Interactions

Lemongrass is generally recognized as safe when consumed as a tea or culinary herb, with mild gastrointestinal upset being the most common side effect. It may interact with diabetes medications by enhancing their glucose-lowering effects, requiring blood sugar monitoring. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid therapeutic doses due to insufficient safety data. High doses may cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals, particularly those with citrus allergies.

## Scientific Research

No specific human clinical trials, RCTs, or meta-analyses were found for Cymbopogon citratus, as the research is limited to preclinical studies without PMIDs.

## Historical & Cultural Context

Cymbopogon citratus is recognized in ethnopharmacology as a drug and food homologous medicine. It has been traditionally used in various global systems for its medicinal properties.

## Synergistic Combinations

ginger, turmeric, holy basil, green tea, licorice root

## Frequently Asked Questions

### What is the active compound in lemongrass?

The primary active compound in lemongrass is citral, comprising 65-85% of the essential oil. Other important bioactives include flavonoids like quercetin and luteolin, plus phenolic acids that contribute to its therapeutic effects.

### How much lemongrass tea is safe to drink daily?

Most studies suggest 1-2 cups of lemongrass tea daily (using 1-2 grams of dried herb per cup) is safe for healthy adults. Higher therapeutic doses should be used under professional guidance, especially for those with medical conditions.

### Can lemongrass lower blood sugar levels?

Preliminary animal studies suggest lemongrass may help reduce blood glucose levels through improved insulin sensitivity. However, human clinical evidence is limited, and diabetics should monitor blood sugar closely when using lemongrass supplements.

### What are the side effects of lemongrass?

Common side effects include mild stomach upset, nausea, and dizziness when consumed in large amounts. Topical use may cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals, and allergic reactions are possible in those with citrus sensitivities.

### Does lemongrass have antibacterial properties?

Yes, laboratory studies demonstrate that lemongrass essential oil has significant antibacterial activity against E. coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and other pathogens. The citral content is primarily responsible for these antimicrobial effects through cell membrane disruption.

### Is lemongrass safe to use during pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Lemongrass is traditionally used in many cultures, but pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult healthcare providers before supplementing, as high doses may have uterotonic properties. Limited clinical safety data exists for these populations, making caution prudent. Most culinary amounts in food are considered safe, but concentrated extracts should be avoided without medical guidance.

### Does lemongrass interact with diabetes medications or blood pressure drugs?

Lemongrass may have additive effects with antidiabetic medications due to its potential to lower blood glucose, requiring dose adjustments or monitoring. It may also potentiate blood pressure-lowering effects of antihypertensive drugs. Individuals taking these medications should inform their healthcare provider before using lemongrass supplements to avoid adverse interactions.

### What is the difference between lemongrass tea, essential oil, and dried leaf extracts?

Lemongrass tea (brewed from dried leaves) offers a mild, food-safe delivery of bioactive compounds but has lower concentration than standardized extracts. Essential oil is highly concentrated and volatile, primarily used for aromatherapy rather than internal supplementation due to potency and safety concerns. Dried leaf extracts and powders provide intermediate bioactive concentrations and are more stable than essential oils while more potent than brewed tea.

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*Source: Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia — https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com*
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