Lemongrass tea is not just a delightful beverage; it’s also packed with health benefits. This aromatic tea is made from the stalks of the lemongrass plant, a herb that is used extensively in Thai and other Southeast Asian cuisines. Its citrusy flavor is refreshing, and its benefits range from digestive health to calming effects. Here are seven reasons why you should consider adding lemongrass tea to your routine:
1. Relieves Anxiety and Stress
Lemongrass tea has calming properties that can help reduce anxiety and promote relaxation. Drinking this tea can help soothe your mind, making it easier to cope with stress.
2. Digestive Health
Lemongrass has antifungal and antibacterial properties, which make it excellent for maintaining digestive health. It helps kill bad bacteria and parasites in the digestive tract and stimulates the bowel function.
3. Helps in Detoxification
Drinking lemongrass tea regularly helps in detoxifying and cleansing the liver, kidneys, bladder, and pancreas. It increases the frequency and quantity of urination which helps in cleansing and flushing harmful toxins out of the body.
4. Supports Immune System
Rich in antioxidants, lemongrass tea boosts the immune system and helps fight off infections. The high vitamin C content in lemongrass helps in reducing cold symptoms and keeping infections at bay.
5. Skin Health
The antioxidant properties of lemongrass help in treating skin issues. It can act as a cleanser for oily or acne-prone skin due to its antibacterial and antifungal properties, helping to achieve clear and glowing skin.
6. Pain Relief
Lemongrass tea is considered beneficial in reducing pain and inflammation. The anti-inflammatory properties of lemongrass can be particularly helpful for those suffering from arthritis and other conditions where inflammation is a concern.
7. Promotes Healthy Metabolism
Lemongrass tea is often recommended for boosting metabolism and burning fat. It’s traditionally used in diet regimens as it helps in optimizing various bodily processes.
How to Make Lemongrass Tea
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of fresh lemongrass stalks, chopped, or 1 tablespoon of dried lemongrass
- 2 cups of water
- Honey or lemon (optional, for taste)
Instructions:
- Prepare Lemongrass: If you’re using fresh lemongrass, remove the outer layer and chop the stalks into 1 to 2-inch lengths. Using the back of your knife, gently crush the stalks to release more flavor.
- Boil the Water: In a small pot, bring water to a boil.
- Add Lemongrass: Add the prepared lemongrass to the boiling water. Reduce heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. If you’re using dried lemongrass, reduce the simmering time to about 5 minutes.
- Steep the Tea: After simmering, remove the pot from heat and let the tea steep for an additional 5 minutes. The longer you let it steep, the stronger the flavor.
- Strain and Serve: Strain the tea into a cup. If desired, you can sweeten it with honey or enhance its flavor with a squeeze of lemon.
Enjoying a cup of lemongrass tea is an excellent way to relax and take advantage of its health benefits. Whether you drink it hot or chilled, lemongrass tea remains a refreshing, healthy beverage choice throughout the year.
