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Lemongrass

Lemongrass — Nutrients, Health Benefits, And Shopping Tips

Written by Listonic Team

Last update on September 4, 2024

Lemongrass is an herb with a citrusy flavor that's commonly used in Asian cuisine. Understand its health benefits, such as aiding digestion and reducing inflammation, and get tips on how to use and store lemongrass for cooking.

Nutrition facts

Check the detailed nutritional values of lemongrass, including information such as calories, fats, carbohydrates, and proteins per 100 grams of the product.

Nutrition facts

Amount per 100 g

Calories

🔥 99 kcal

Nutrition per: 100 g	Value	% Daily Value*
Carbs	25 g	9.09%
Fiber	0 g	-
Sugars	0 g	-
Glycemic Index	55	-
Protein	2 g	4%
Sodium	6 mg	0.26%
Total Fat	1 g	1.28%

*The % of Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Among other things, here's what makes lemongrass stand out:

🟢 Low Glycemic Index

1 g

🥕 Low Fat Content

Did you know?

🛒

Pick lemongrass that is firm and pale green.

😋

Lemongrass is widely used in Southeast Asian cooking for its unique lemony flavor and aroma.

📦

Store fresh lemongrass in the refrigerator, wrapped in a damp paper towel and placed in a plastic bag, and use within two weeks. For longer storage, freeze it in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to six months.

Health benefits

See how lemongrass can bring a fragrant and health-boosting element to your cooking, supporting overall well-being.

Rich in antioxidants such as flavonoids and phenolic compounds, which help protect the body from free radicals and reduce inflammation.
Supports digestive health by stimulating the production of digestive enzymes and reducing symptoms of indigestion and bloating.
Contains antimicrobial properties, which can help fight off infections and improve overall health.
May support heart health by helping to lower cholesterol levels and blood pressure.
Low in calories, making it a nutritious addition to a balanced diet.

Health risks

Consider the potential issues tied to lemongrass.

Potential for allergic reactions in some individuals, causing symptoms like itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing, particularly those allergic to grasses.
Risk of digestive discomfort such as stomach pain or diarrhea when consumed in large quantities, particularly in sensitive individuals.
Potential for contamination with pesticides or harmful bacteria if not properly washed or sourced from a reputable supplier.
Potential interactions with medications particularly blood thinners, as lemongrass may have mild anticoagulant effects.

Add lemongrass to your digital grocery list!

How to choose lemongrass

Lemongrass stalks should be pale green at the base and taper to a darker green at the tips, reflecting their freshness and readiness for use. The stalks should feel sturdy and emit a lemony scent when crushed slightly, which showcases their potency and essential oils.

Avoid lemongrass that appears dry or brittle, or has a faded color, as these are indicators that it is no longer fresh. Quality lemongrass will impart a bright, citrus flavor to your dishes, making it essential for many Southeast Asian recipes.

How to store lemongrass

Store lemongrass in the refrigerator wrapped in a damp paper towel and placed in a plastic bag. Keep it in the crisper drawer to maintain its freshness. Properly stored lemongrass can last up to two weeks.

Avoid storing lemongrass at room temperature for extended periods, as it can dry out and lose its flavor. Do not wash lemongrass before storing as excess moisture can cause it to rot. Trim the ends and peel away the outer layers just before use.

✅ Extra Tip

If you have extra lemongrass, you can freeze it by chopping it into small pieces and storing it in an airtight container, which preserves its flavor for up to several months.

How long do they last?

Lemongrass can last for 2-3 weeks in the refrigerator when stored in a plastic bag or container. For longer storage, lemongrass can be frozen, lasting up to 6 months.

What to do with leftovers?

Leftover lemongrass can be used in a variety of culinary and non-culinary ways. In the kitchen, lemongrass adds a fresh, citrusy flavor to dishes like soups, curries, stir-fries, and marinades. It’s commonly used in Southeast Asian cuisine and can be steeped in hot water to make a refreshing tea.

Beyond cooking, lemongrass has several other uses. It can be used in homemade herbal teas that are traditionally believed to help aid digestion and reduce stress. Lemongrass can also be used as a natural insect repellent; its strong scent helps deter mosquitoes and other pests, making it useful in outdoor areas. Additionally, lemongrass can be added to homemade beauty products like soaps, scrubs, or bath salts, where its refreshing fragrance and antibacterial properties are beneficial. You can also dry lemongrass and use it in potpourri or sachets to freshen up closets and drawers.

👨‍⚕️️ Medical disclaimer

The content on this website is for informational purposes only. No material on this site is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.

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