I recently came across several new reports and studies on lemongrass. It has so many uses and benefits that are hard to ignore. I was amazed by some of the more recent research, though. I will have to break this into a couple of blogs, but here is the first installment.

I have always loved using lemongrass in my herbal blends. You can find lemongrass in our Peaceful Pathways, Slimming Goddess, Thai Lemon Ginger Rooibos, and several of our WellTeaing Herbals. Its anti-inflammatory properties help clear the mucous membranes of the sinuses, lungs and digestive tract. It also helps break down the trans fats and saturated fats that are so high in the American diet. As it turns out, however, lemongrass has even more positive effects than I was even aware of.

With my recent research, I discovered lemongrass also affects cholesterol. Lemongrass has anti-hyperlipidemic and anti-hypercholesterolemic properties that support healthy cholesterol levels. Studies have shown that regular consumption of lemongrass provides remarkable results in sustaining healthy levels of triglycerides and reducing the body's LDL cholesterol. This helps prevent the accumulation of lipids in the blood vessels and promotes the unobstructed flow of blood in the arteries and prevents various cardiac disorders such as atherosclerosis. 

Another surprise was the information I found for use with diabetes, especially type II. In addition to its anti-inflammatory benefits, studies have shown that the citral in lemongrass helps maintain optimum levels of insulin and improves the tolerance of glucose in the body.

There is still much research for me to do and more to report to you, so make sure you stay tuned for even more great benefits to be enjoyed from Lemongrass!