Besides the deliciously citrusy flavor that lemongrass provides in culinary applications, it also holds tremendous healing power within its fibrous stalks. Lemongrass, specifically lemongrass essential oil, may help relieve muscle pain, kill bacteria, ward off insects, reduce body aches, and more. Lemongrass essential oil also has a place as an ingredient in cosmetics, offering a wonderful fragrance and properties that support the skin.

What Is Lemongrass Essential Oil?

Lemongrass belongs to the grass family of Poaceae and it is also a Cymbopogon. It grows in dense clumps that can exceed six feet in height and four feet in width. Native to tropical regions, including India, Oceania, and Southeast Asia, lemongrass has been used in many medicinal applications. Both African and South American cultures have also used lemongrass to make tea. 

Lemongrass essential oil comes from the leaves or grasses of the lemongrass plant. The oil exhibits a lemony smell that is stimulating, relaxing, soothing, and balancing. Depending on the geographical origin, the chemical composition may change. Lemongrass essential oil contains alcohols, hydrocarbon terpenes, ketones, esters, and aldehydes. It can be a great source of nutrients, some of which include vitamins A & C, magnesium, calcium, zinc, manganese, copper, iron, and folate. Studies show that it acts particularly on the connective tissue, where immune and structural functions meet. Learn more about lemongrass’ health benefits below. 

Skin Health

Although you cannot directly apply lemongrass essential oil to the skin, it does offer skin-soothing properties. A 2017 study tested the effects of lemongrass essential oil on pre-inflamed human dermal fibroblast. Study authors found that lemongrass essential oil exhibited anti-inflammatory activity in human cells. Not only did that study confirm it is a good candidate for treating inflammatory skin conditions, but another study also found that it is promising for replacing synthetic compounds in the cosmeceutical industry. Lemongrass essential oil has antiseptic, antibacterial, and astringent properties, all of which work to sterilize pores and contribute to glowing skin.

May Reduce Stress And Anxiety

One study exposed a group of test subjects to an anxiety-causing situation and had them smell the scent of lemongrass essential oil. This group, unlike the controlled groups, experienced a decrease in anxiety and subjective tension after administration. This is because lemongrass essential oil exhibits a mild, calming aroma that may relieve anxiety and irritability. You can drop a few drops of lemongrass essential oil in a diffuser to help calm down, or drink lemongrass tea to help reduce stress. 

Stomach Aid

For centuries, lemongrass has been a popular treatment for stomach issues, including gastric ulcers and gastritis. One research study from 2012 found that lemongrass essential oil protected stomachs in animal subjects from the gastric damaging effects of aspirin and ethanol. The conclusion of that study was that lemongrass essential oil could serve as a lead compound for the future development of therapies that combat nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug therapy.

Bacteria Killer

One study from 2012 that tested the antibacterial properties of lemongrass essential oil, testing microorganisms with a disk diffusion method. Study authors added lemongrass essential oil to a staph infection and saw that it was able to disrupt the infection as an antibacterial agent. The citral and limonene content in lemongrass essential oil can either inhibit or kill the growth of fungi and bacteria. That means that it may help in the treatment of infections such as athlete’s foot, ringworm, and other types of fungal infections. 

Reduces Inflammation

According to in vitro research, lemongrass essential oil exhibits powerful anti-inflammatory properties when used internally and externally. Considering that inflammation is at the root of many health conditions, this is exciting news. Other studies also confirm the anti-inflammatory properties of lemongrass essential oil. These studies explored the potential anti-hypertensive effects of lemongrass essential oil, uncovering a lot of evidence that indicates potent anti-inflammatory activity. 

Hair Health

Researchers note that lemongrass essential oil can help strengthen hair follicles, which is great news if you suffer from hair loss. Dilute a few drops of lemongrass essential oil into jojoba oil, or another carrier oil, and massage a small amount into your scalp for two minutes. This may also help relieve irritated or itchy scalp. Studies show that lemongrass essential oil may offer anti-dandruff properties, and may help leave your hair shiny and odor-free.

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Herbs can play a huge role in helping the body achieve optimum health. Whether the goal is to help remedy open wounds, aid digestion, boost the immune system, or lower cholesterol, herbs can be a viable, all-natural solution. Certain herbs have even been used for hundreds of years to naturally remedy a variety of health conditions.

What Are Herbs?

Herbs are plants that have a specific flavor, scent, and medicinal properties. They can be used in both culinary and medicinal fields, and they are appreciated/used differently around the world. Different cultures have learned to use herbs in various ways to treat things such as dysentery, bowel troubles, respiratory problems, or to help improve organ function.

Benefits of Herbs

Herbs can be used or consumed in a variety of ways to reap their benefits. You can inhale the aroma of an herb’s essential oil or brew fresh herbs into teas. Depending on what you are trying to achieve, you must use the herbs accordingly. Some herbs have anti-inflammatory properties and can help remedy conditions like arthritis, inflammatory bowel ailments, or osteoporosis. Other herbs can help balance blood sugar levels, which is great for diabetes patients.

What follows is a list of some very common, yet extremely powerful, herbs that you can incorporate into your everyday life.

Basil

Basil has been known to calm the mind when consumed fresh or drunk as a tea. It has stress relieving properties, but its aroma can help to boost energy levels. The antimicrobial and anti-aging effects work to keep your skin healthy and youthful; it’s also a beneficial insect repellent. Keep a bunch of basil fresh by placing the stems in water at room temperature. Do not keep it in the fridge.

Sage

Sage contains a lot of vitamin K, which helps to maintain healthy bones. You can actually chew sage or drink sage tea to help naturally remedy conditions like psoriasis or arthritis. When consumed, sage helps to fight free radicals in the body. Sage can be kept in the fridge for up to two weeks, but make sure it is wrapped in a damp paper towel.

Parsley

Parsley is incredibly rich in antioxidants and flavonoids that work to kill cancer cells. These antioxidants include apigenin, luteolin, coumarins, and quercetin, among several others. The other nutrients in parsley, like manganese, vitamin C, zinc, magnesium, potassium, and calcium, all work separately to decrease oxidative damage and reduce kidney and liver toxicity. Keep parsley fresh by storing it the same was as basil (see above).

Dill

Dill is actually packed with flavonoids and B-vitamins, both of which have a calming effect on the brain. Consuming dill seeds can help to freshen your breath and soothe the digestive system. Did you know that 1 tablespoon of dill seeds contains more calcium than one-third cup of milk? To keep dill fresh, wrap it in a damp paper towel and store it in the fridge.

Rosemary

Rosemary has antioxidants, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties that help boost the immune system and promote healthy circulation. It has been known to help fight off staph infections and enhance one’s overall well-being. Rosemary has incredible anti-aging benefits, which can be reaped from both the essential oil and the plant itself. Keep rosemary fresh by storing it the same way as dill.

Oregano

Oregano is a beneficial, heart-healthy herb with tons of omega-3 fatty acids. It is also a great herb to help detox the body and promote healthy liver function. You can also use oregano oil topically on the skin for its antimicrobial and antibacterial properties. Store it the same way you would rosemary or dill.

Thyme

Recent studies have shown that thyme extract has the ability to reduce the heart rate in rats with high blood pressure. Additionally, it was also helpful in lowering cholesterol levels. Thyme has many health benefits, including the ability to help the formation of red blood cells. It can also help relieve lupus, fibromyalgia, arthritis, Hashimoto’s disease, and vertigo. Loosely wrap thyme in a damp paper towel and keep it in the warmest part of the fridge, like the door, for optimum freshness. 

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People have been reaping the benefits of superfoods like bok choy, kale, mustard greens, and broccoli for some time now. They provide the body with high amounts of fiber, minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants, but could they be doing more than you think? Yes, and this is all due to chlorophyll.

Remember when you learned about chlorophyll and the process of photosynthesis in science class? Let’s give a quick recap so you don’t have to dig through your mental archives. Chlorophyll, which is formed in the cells of leaves and other parts of the plant, makes plants and leaves green. The process of photosynthesis allows plants to take sunlight, convert it to energy, and emit oxygen into the environment. Plants are like nature’s solar panels.

It gets interesting when we take a look at the fact that chlorophyll and hemoglobin are nearly identical. The subtle difference is that hemoglobin has an iron molecule and chlorophyll has a magnesium molecule. According to a recent study, scientists examined mammalian mitochondria (those things in cells responsible for energy production) under a chlorophyll-rich diet and saw that they could also use sunlight to create Adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which supplies cells with the energy. This means that those green veggies your mom always told you to eat can power your body and boost heart health. You can also take herbal supplements that give your body chlorophyll.

What Does Chlorophyll Do for the Body?

Chlorophyll is a killer of bacteria, especially in the GI tract, and helps to remedy strep throat and staph infections. When a person maintains a chlorophyll-rich diet, e.g. microgreens or dark leafy greens like spinach, kale, or chard, they have an increased number of red blood cells. This means that the body has more oxygen to use. If you have kidney stones, chlorophyll helps to break down calcium oxalate for easier elimination. Due to the antioxidant properties in chlorophyll, it can decrease and absorb mold toxins, for example aflatoxin B, which can cause liver complications and cancer. Additionally, chlorophyll helps to:

• Boost Immunity
• Promote Healthy Circulation
• Reduce Inflammation
• Help Increase Liver, Gallbladder, and Kidney Function
• Clear the Sinuses
• Help Purify the Blood
• Control Body Odor
• Promote Healthy Iron Levels

Vegetables That Are High in Chlorophyll

Be like Popeye and eat spinach for high amounts of chlorophyll. While it may not give you the strength he had to beat Bluto, chlorophyll will definitely bring you a sense of vitality. Vegetables with chlorophyll include:

• Bok Choy
• Kale
• Spinach (don’t overeat because of high oxilic acid content)
• Broccoli
• Watercress
• Mustard Greens
• Beet Greens (don’t overeat because of high oxilic acid content)
• Green Cabbage
• Swiss Chard (don’t overeat because of high oxilic acid content)
• Dandelion Greens
• Arugula
• Endive

Those who say that vegetables don’t provide you with energy need to do a little reading up on chlorophyll. Your body is like a science experiment that works really well when you ingest veggies that are high in chlorophyll. Give your cells a hand by providing them with chlorophyll, which can actually power you!

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Cooking or incorporating rosemary into your life may just be the ticket to a healthier and longer life. People have been using rosemary to add a Mediterranean essence to dishes for quite some time. It grows in gardens, but can often be dismissed as just a regular herb. Trust us, it’s way better than normal.

In recent months, researchers have traveled to the small town of Aciarolli, Italy, which is just south of Naples, because 300 centenarians are living there. Researches don’t think this a coincidence, considering that the Italian island of Sardinia is already a Blue Zone, an area where people live measurably longer lives. Rosemary, in conjunction with a Mediterranean diet (mostly consisting of plant-based foods like legumes, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables) is believed to play a major role in their longevity.

The Benefits of Rosemary

Rosemary has a wide variety of medicinal properties. It is easy to grown and maintain, and you’ll be amazed at how you can utilize its benefits in your daily life.

Improving Memory

Rosemary has been known as a memory booster for a long time. While you are enjoying the aromatic flavor rosemary gives your meals, it actually helps your ability to focus. This helps keep your mind quick and allows you to have improved memory retention. Additionally, rosemary has been shown to increase cognitive activity in older people, Alzheimer’s patients, and people with dementia. While tests are still being conducted, rosemary is showing positive results in helping memory retention and mental sharpness.

Immune Booster

Rosemary has antioxidants, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties that help boost the immune system and promote healthy circulation. It has been known to help fight off staph infections and enhance one’s overall well-being. If you have essential oil of rosemary, you can use it topically on your skin for better blood circulation, as long as you dilute it with carrier oil first. Did we mention that it helps promote healthy digestion too?

Stress Reliever

Everybody experiences stress in life, but rosemary’s essential oil can help relieve anxiety, stress, and muscle tension. You can rub rosemary oil, which has been diluted with carrier oil, on the area of tension, but remember to avoid open wounds and your eyes. You can also add several drops of essential oil to a hot bath for an aromatherapy treatment that may promote overall relaxation.

Breath Freshener

Since rosemary has natural antibacterial properties, it can be used as a mouthwash to help freshen your breath. Boil a few sprigs of rosemary in water and strain it. Let the solution cool and keep it in your bathroom. Swish a small amount of the solution around in your mouth to help clean your teeth, gums, and freshen your breath.

Skin Health

Rosemary has incredible anti-aging benefits, which can be reaped from both the essential oil and the plant itself. By applying the leaves or diluted essential oil topically, you can improve the quality of your skin. The properties of rosemary can help heal blemishes and give your skin a natural, healthy, and refreshed glow. How amazing is this herb?!

One thing to keep in mind when you are using the essential oil of rosemary: Do not take it orally because of its potency. You can, however, incorporate a few drops of essential oil into your cooking, or you can put a few drops in a beverage to dilute it; or dilute it with carrier oil to apply it topically to the skin. If you use rosemary frequently, in combination with a plant-based diet like those in Blue Zones, there’s no reason you can’t have a healthier, longer life.

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Staph infections are caused by staphylococcus bacteria. The infection can range from a small boil to a antibiotic resistant infection to a flesh-eating infection.

Causes and Risk Factors

Staph infections are caused by staph bacteria entering the body, usually via a cut on the skin or the mucus membranes (eyes, mouth, nose).

People with weakened immune systems are particularly at risk of contracting a staph infection, so extra precaution should be taken.

Staph infections are contagious when the wound is draining. Avoid contact with surfaces, as the bacteria can be transmitted on many different surfaces, including doorknobs, grocery cart or basket handles, desks, tables, steering wheels, bottled condiments at restaurants, fitness equipment in gyms, locker rooms, stair railings-pretty much any where.

Staph infections are more common in North America, primarily due to our overuse of antibiotics and anti-microbial products. We have created super-germs while weakening our natural resistance (immune system).

Symptoms

Staph infection symptoms can range from:

• A lump that looks like a pimple or a bug bite
• Swelling
• Redness around a cut or affected area
• “Heat” in the affected area
• Fever (if the infection moves beyond the skin and into the blood stream)
• Chills and sweats

Staph infections that penetrate the bloodstream can be very serious, even fatal. They require immediate professional attention and intervention.

Natural Healing Solutions

If you have a cut, wash the area with soap and water, then apply an antiseptic remedy such as Tea Tree Oil. Keep the wound clean, dry and covered to prevent additional bacteria from entering the body.

A thorough cleansing of the body with an emphasis on the blood and lymphatic system and fluids and the major eliminative channels (colon, liver, lungs, kidneys) is mandatory when healing from a staph infection.

You can also gargle with a glass of warm water, sea salt (1/3 teaspoon), and 2 drops of Tea Tree oil if the staph infection is oral in nature.

Essential oils can be quite effective for staph infections. Good essential oils to add to your bath water for your anti-staph soak include:

• Tea Tree
• Manuka
• Ravensare
• Kanuka
• Leleshwa
• Niaouli
• Eucalyptus
• Cajeput
• Thuja
• Cinnamon (leaf, not bark)
• Vetivert

Simply add a few drops (1-2 drops of each oil, or 3-5 drops of an individual oil) to the bath water of each bath you take.

Dietary Intervention

To heal from any disease, always modify the diet and include more raw, organic, fresh fruits and vegetables so as to raise the body’s pH level. A diet that consists of 75% raw foods and 25% vegan foods is conducive to healing. However, you can’t go wrong with green foods.

When healing from any disease, ALWAYS abstain from consuming meat and dairy products as well as all processed and refined so-called foods.

Drink plenty of fresh organic vegetable juice (especially parsley and cilantro). Vegetable juice is healing, rebuilding, and nourishing and helps to raise the body’s pH level (to an alkaline level).

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Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS) is a severe acute disease that is caused by infection with strains of Staphylococcus aureus (phage group 1), which produces a unique toxin, enterotoxin F.  TSS can affect anyone who has any type of staph infection, including pneumonia, abscess, skin or wound infection, a blood infection called septicemia, or a bone infection called osteomyelitis.  While TSS was originally linked to the use of commercial tampons, it is now also known to be associated with the contraceptive sponge and diaphragm birth control methods.  TSS can also result from wounds secondary to minor trauma or surgery incisions, where bacteria can possibly enter able the body and cause the infection.  Some people might refer to TSS as an idiopathic disease, a disease that you get while visiting a hospital.  TSS is a rare condition that, while most common in women, can also occur in men.

Symptoms of Toxic Shock Syndrome

Symptoms of TSS tend to appear out of the blue and can vary from person to person. Common signs and symptoms can include:

• Sudden high fever
• Headache
• Sore throat with swelling of the mucous membranes
• Diarrhea
• Nausea
• Erythroderma
• Rash
• Seizures
• Redness of eyes
• Muscle Aches

Causes of Toxic Shock Syndrome

Most often, TSS occurs when bacteria enter an opening in the skin, such as an open sore, cut, or other wound.  Even though the streptococcus bacteria cause TSS, the condition does not typically occur after a simple streptococcus throat infection (commonly referred to as Strep Throat).  The tampon theory originated from the fact that some believe that tampons attract bacteria, primarily because they are left in one place for a long time.  Another theory is that the fibers from tampons scratch the vagina, which ultimately creates an opening for bacteria to enter the bloodstream.  Possible causes include:

• Bacteria entering through wounds
• Having had recent surgery
• Using contraceptive sponges, diaphragms, or super absorbent tampons
• Having a viral infections (such as flu or chickenpox)

Natural Remedies

• The vagina is a breathing organ.  It must breathe, but when you frequently wear tight clothing, including tight underwear, tight jeans, and tight yoga pants, you smother the vagina and the lack of oxygen results in vaginal atrophy.  It is recommended that you find a nice balance between tight and loose clothing.  Five percent of all cases of Toxic Shock Syndrome are fatal.  However, the case fatality rates for menstrual-related TSS have declined as awareness has improved.  Try to wear cotton clothing items that breathe!
• Whenever you have any sort of open wound, it is important to properly take care of it.  Make sure to regularly clean your wound, cut, or scrape and try to prevent bacteria from entering it.  TSS can occur if streptococcus bacteria enter wounds, so be mindful of your surroundings and exercise proper wound care.
• Try to consume a lot of foods that are rich in probiotics.  Probiotics can help to boost your immune system and promote healthy gut flora.  Having a strong and healthy immune system can help your body naturally combat the bacteria in the body.  Some of the best probiotics to eat include kimchi, fermented vegetables, kefir, natto, and miso.
• Several studies have shown that there is a link between low vitamin D levels and increased occurrence of infections.  Certain immune cells actually have vitamin D receptors and metabolizers, which means that increasing your vitamin D levels can have a positive effect on the immune system.
• As a woman, it is important to have optimal menstruation maintenance.  While the decision to use or not use tampons or pads is entirely up to each woman, we recommend tampon or pad alternatives such as Goddess Moons, cloth pads, Wemoon, or Natracare products.  It may also be more beneficial to use chlorine-free pads instead of tampons.
• As always, it is beneficial to make a dietary change when trying to rid bacteria from the body.  Eating things like meat, dairy products, added sugars, salt, unhealthy grains, and genetically modified foods can make it hard for your immune system to function optimally.  Give your body the foods that it needs by eating a lot of fresh fruits and vegetables, raw nuts and seeds, and legumes.

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