Botanical Overview
West Indian Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) is a flowering plant in the Poaceae family. Traditional medicine systems have documented several valuable applications for this species, supported by its observed therapeutic effects. The grass family (Poaceae) includes annual and perennial herbs with hollow, jointed stems and narrow leaves with parallel venation. The flowers are reduced and arranged in spikelets, and the fruits are grains (caryopses). This family provides the majority of the world’s food calories through cereals.
General Description
Cymbopogon citratus, commonly known as West Indian lemon grass or simply lemon grass, is a tropical plant native to South Asia and Maritime Southeast Asia and introduced to many tropical regions.
Family Context
The Poaceae family is very large and globally distributed. Notable medicinal members include:
- Adlay — 54 documented uses
- Corn — 51 documented uses
- Rice — 47 documented uses
- Wheat — 43 documented uses
Geographic Distribution
West Indian Lemongrass has been recorded in 10 countries and territories worldwide, including Benin, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Indonesia, and others.
Traditional Uses
West Indian Lemongrass has been traditionally used for digestive health, respiratory conditions, and skin and wound care, among other applications.
Digestive health.
- Carminative
- Dyspepsia
- Ache(Stomach)
For digestive complaints, the herb is typically prepared as a tea or decoction taken before meals. The bitter compounds stimulate digestive secretions and improve nutrient absorption. Some traditions use the powdered root or leaves in small doses as a stomachic tonic.
Respiratory conditions.
- Cold
- Pectoral
- Cough
- Expectorant
Respiratory conditions are addressed through steam inhalation of the herb’s vapors or internal use as a warm tea. The hot infusion acts as an expectorant, helping to loosen phlegm and clear congestion. Some traditions combine it with honey for coughs.
Skin and wound care.
- Leprosy
For skin conditions, the fresh or dried plant is applied topically as a poultice, wash, or compress. A strong decoction can be used to clean wounds and sores. The antimicrobial properties help prevent infection while promoting tissue repair.
Active Compounds
Phytochemical research has identified 30 compounds in this species, including a diverse array of phytochemical classes (see the Complete Chemical Inventory below for the full list).
The identified compounds include the following categories:
- Sterol: cholesterol-like compounds with anti-inflammatory properties
- Alkaloid: nitrogenous compounds with diverse pharmacological activities