Lemongrass, also referred to as citronella, is a stalky tropical grass with a subtly tangy yet refreshing lemon aroma. Often featured as a bug repellant or in aromatic products that promote a good night’s slumber or melt away stress, lemongrass is also a prime feature in Thai, African, and Vietnamese dishes. Indeed, brewing up a cup of lemongrass tea has long been used to boost immunity and digestion, which is why this plant is often recommended as a medicinal herb also prescribed to for it’s many antibacterial and antifungal benefits.

You can enjoy the many benefits of lemongrass in these ways:

1. Reduces inflammation
Natural practitioners have long prescribed lemongrass for its ability to reduce inflammation throughout the body. Lemongrass features a powerful triad of inflammation-fighting compounds—isoorientin, swertiajaponin, and chlorogenic acid—known for reducing arthritis, achy joints, and even gout. Plus, lemongrass can be used preventatively to prevent inflammatory conditions such as cardiovascular disease.

2. Fights infection
For centuries, lemongrass has been used to fight parasites and fungal infections of the digestive and respiratory tract thrush. However, researchers from the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York continue to examine the benefits of lemongrass when it comes to preventing infection in immunosuppressed patients with HIV. Studies continue to show significant promise as far as the antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal benefits of lemongrass against an array of infectious conditions (i.e., acne, ringworm, sinusitis, and influenza).

3. Cancer-fighting antioxidants
When it comes to delivering a vital dose of antioxidants, lemongrass tea rivals the celebrated green brew. In fact, a study published by the journal, Fundamental and Clinical Pharmacology suggests that lemongrass tea equals green tea as a cancer fighter. Lemongrass tea contains citral, a potent antioxidant that repairs free radical damage, eradicated cancerous cells, and works to prevent breast cancer.

4. Oral health ally
Many countries around the world enjoy chewing lemongrass for its many health benefits, including immaculate oral health. Lemongrass contains over a dozen herbal extracts that naturally prevent bacterial growth. Makes sense that a study published by the Food Chemistry touted lemongrass as a plant that blocked the bacterial growth that causes cavities.