Lemongrass herb has anti-cancer properties, relieves cough and nasal congestion.

This medicinal herb is also called fever grass

In 2006 a research team from the Ben Gurion University in Israel found that this grass (Cymbopogon citratus) caused apoptosis (programmed cell death) in cancer cells. Through in vitro studies, the researchers examined the effect of citral, a molecule found in this herb, on both normal and cancerous cells.

Using concentrations of citral equivalent to the quantity in a cup of tea (one gram of lemon grass in hot water), the researchers observed that citral induces programmed cell death in the cancerous cells, while the normal cells were left unharmed.

Depending on the area you live in the plant will go dormant in the winter. You can also freeze it for about 6 months without any flavor loss.

Herbal benefits of this plant

It is used for medicinal purposes. It is supposed to help with relieving cough and nasal congestion. This herb is also used to make a tea.

It is also used for ague, fever and colds. It is also used as a bush bath or herbal bath.

Select fresh looking stalks that do not look dry or brittle. The light lemon flavor of this grass blends well with garlic, chilies, and cilantro. It is rich in a substance called citral, the active ingredient in lemon peel.

I personally pick a few of the stalks each morning and put it in boiling water for a few minutes. Then I sweeten it with honey and drink a cup of this delicious medicinal plant.

May be used as a culinary herb

This is a very pungent herb and is normally used in small amounts. The grass blade can be sliced very fine and added to soups. Store it fresh in the refrigerator in a tightly sealed plastic bag for up to 3 weeks. The entire stalk of the grass can be used.

The dried product has to be soaked in hot water and reconstituted before use. In addition, it may be purchased dried or powdered.

Can produce herbal products

Research also shows that the lemongrass oil of this plant has anti-fungal properties.