Lemongrass 

Lemongrass tea is popularly consumed in various countries because of its medicinal properties.* Though this grass is deceptively humble, it is packed with numerous benefits that can help improve many chronic conditions.* These benefits include anti-microbial, anti-oxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties. Nutrition-wise, lemongrass tea is a good source of vitamins A and C, folate, magnesium, zinc, copper, iron, potassium, phosphorus, calcium and manganese; it also contains minute traces of the B vitamins.* When consumed with honey, lemongrass tea can act as a natural diuretic.*

Lemongrass - also known as Cymbopogon citratus, oil grass, citronella, citronella grass, fever grass, barbed wire grass - is a plant that belongs to the Poaceae grass family. It is well known and utilized for its distinct lemon flavor and citrusy aroma. Lemongrass has several culinary uses and has been recommended by traditional medicine practitioners for its medicinal properties as well.* 

These properties include, but are not limited to:* 

• Anemia. Lemongrass can help various anemia types thanks to its high iron content. Iron is an essential component for hemoglobin synthesis (a red blood cell protein responsible for transporting oxygen throughout the body). 
• Anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties. Due to these properties, lemongrass tea can help treat arthritis, gout, and urinary tract inflammation. Lemongrass’ antiseptic properties can also help to eliminate unhealthy microorganisms, and purify and detoxify the blood. As such, bacterial, fungal, or yeast infections can possibly be controlled. 
• Balsamic action (cold & flu relief). The volatile oil content in lemongrass has a balsamic action on the respiratory tract which can be useful for alleviating cold, flu, and hay fever symptoms. 
• Detoxifying & purifying action. Drink a cup or glass of lemongrass tea for its antioxidant, antiseptic and diuretic effects which purify and cleanse the liver, bladder, kidneys, colon, and pancreas.  
• Diabetes. As lemongrass tea helps cleanse the pancreas and improve its functions, blood sugar levels in diabetics might be lowered. 
• Digestive health. Lemongrass' antimicrobial properties can help regulate intestinal function and motility. As a result, consumption of lemongrass can relieve digestive-related issues such as vomiting, constipation, indigestion, diarrhea, flatulence, stomach spasms, intestinal bloating, and cramps. 
• Gastritis or heartburn. A mug of warm lemongrass tea can be very soothing when experiencing acid indigestion/heartburn or gastritis. 
• High blood pressure. The diuretic effects of lemongrass are secondary to its high potassium content. This can help regulate and lower blood pressure.
• High cholesterol. Lemongrass has an anti-cholesterol and anti-atherosclerosis action. It helps reduce both the absorption of cholesterol from the intestine, as well as the oxidation of LDL-cholesterol in the blood, thus preventing one of the first steps in the formation of atherosclerotic plaques. 
• Skin health. Improved blood circulation can result in better skin health. Therefore, regular consumption of lemongrass tea can help reduce acne, psoriasis, and eczema. 
• Weight loss. The diuretic effect of lemongrass tea can help effectively and quickly carry out body waste in high volume, which can result in weight loss. Its digestive system and metabolism boosting effects can also support weight loss efforts.

Precautions

Please consult with a medical professional prior to including this tea in your diet if you are on medication, are pregnant, or nursing. Hibiscus tea is toxic to the liver in extremely high doses. However, most sources advise that consuming three to four 8 oz glasses of hibiscus tea daily is safe. 

Lemongrass tea is generally safe to consume, but excessive intake may impact kidney function. It is recommended to consult with a medical professional before drinking lemongrass tea during pregnancy, as doing so may lead to a miscarriage.

Preparation: We recommend using 1 tea bag per 8 oz of water at a full rolling boil (212°F) and steeping anywhere from 3 to 5 minutes. Teas prepared from light, delicate blossoms or leaves require shorter steeping times than more hearty herbs. If you prefer a stronger brew, we suggest using multiple tea bags.