Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus)

Quick summary

Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) is a widely used medicinal and aromatic plant known for its essential oil containing bioactive monoterpenes such as citral and geraniol. Traditionally used as a culinary herb and in folk medicine, emerging research suggests possible antifungal, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and gastrointestinal motility modulating properties. However, clinical evidence remains limited and further controlled human studies are needed to confirm its efficacy and safety across various uses.

What is it

Lemongrass is a tropical, perennial grass native to Asia and widely cultivated around the world. It is prized for its lemon-scented leaves and essential oil, which contain potent bioactive components including citral and geraniol. The essential oil and extracts have been utilized in cooking, traditional remedies, and aromatherapy.

Traditional uses

Used as a culinary herb for flavoring food and tea.
Folk medicine applications include relief of digestive discomfort, fever, and infections.
Topically applied for skin conditions and as an insect repellent.

Active compounds

The primary active constituents in lemongrass essential oil are monoterpenes such as citral and geraniol. These compounds exhibit antimicrobial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory activities in laboratory studies.

Potential benefits with evidence levels

Oral candidiasis – Limited Scientific Evidence: Laboratory studies suggest antifungal effects against Candida species, but clinical trials are lacking to confirm benefits in humans. [1]
Periodontitis, gingivitis, and oral malodor – Limited Human Clinical Evidence: Small studies indicate lemongrass essential oil may reduce gingival inflammation and oral odor, with efficacy comparable to chlorhexidine and doxycycline; more robust trials are needed. [2]
Slow transit constipation (STC) – Animal (Mouse) Model Evidence: Aqueous extracts improved gut motility and reduced intestinal inflammation in mice, suggesting possible laxative effects. [3]
Breastmilk production in mothers of preterm infants – Low Certainty Evidence from RCTs: Some herbal mixtures including lemon balm (not pure lemongrass) have shown milk production increase; evidence for pure lemongrass is insufficient. [4]
Antimicrobial activity – Preclinical Evidence: Essential oils demonstrate broad-spectrum antimicrobial, antifungal, and antibiofilm effects in vitro, including activity against multidrug-resistant microbes; nanoformulations may improve effectiveness. [6]
Skin care and wound healing – Insufficient Clinical Evidence: Preclinical data suggest some benefits on skin renewal and microbial control, but clinical data are very limited. [2]

Side effects

Mild skin irritation or allergic reactions may occur with topical use of lemongrass essential oil.
Dizziness and epigastric pain were reported in a polyherbal clinical trial including lemongrass, though causality is unclear.
No severe or systemic toxicity has been documented in the available human data.

Drug interactions

No well-documented drug interactions involving lemongrass are currently established. However, caution is advised in patients taking anticoagulants, antihypertensive drugs, or other herbal supplements due to potential additive or unknown effects.

Who should avoid it

Individuals with known allergies to lemongrass, related plants, or essential oils should avoid use.
Pregnant or breastfeeding women should exercise caution due to insufficient safety data.

Evidence limitations

Most current evidence derives from in vitro experiments, animal models, or small and methodologically limited clinical studies.
Variability in lemongrass preparations, dosing, and formulations complicates comparisons and generalizability.
Lack of large, well-controlled randomized trials limits definitive conclusions on efficacy and safety.
Pharmacokinetic and drug interaction data in humans remain scarce.
Safety and efficacy in vulnerable groups such as pregnant or breastfeeding women and children have not been adequately studied.

References

Last reviewed

June 2024

Information disclaimer: This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The use of lemongrass should not replace professional healthcare consultation. Always speak with a qualified healthcare provider before starting any new herbal treatment, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medications, or have underlying health conditions.