Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) is a versatile herb widely used in Asian cuisine and traditional medicine. However, its potent compounds can cause adverse effects in some people, making it crucial to understand the risks. While generally safe in small culinary amounts, medicinal doses, especially in tea or essential oil form, can trigger or exacerbate health issues. This comprehensive guide outlines who should not eat lemongrass and why.
Lemongrass During Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
For pregnant and breastfeeding women, caution is the watchword regarding lemongrass consumption. Research has indicated potential risks that make it unsafe for this group.
Risks during pregnancy
Studies and expert advisories strongly suggest that pregnant women should avoid consuming lemongrass in therapeutic or medicinal amounts. The herb is known to potentially stimulate menstrual flow, which raises concerns about the risk of miscarriage. Although the effect of small culinary quantities is often considered minimal, it is best to consult a healthcare provider and exercise extreme caution throughout pregnancy. Animal studies have also indicated potential adverse effects on the fetus, reinforcing the need for prudence.
Insufficient data for breastfeeding
There is a lack of reliable information on whether lemongrass is safe for breastfeeding mothers. To protect the nursing infant, most medical and herbal safety guidelines recommend staying on the safe side and avoiding use during this period.
Individuals with Low Blood Pressure
Lemongrass is a natural diuretic, meaning it increases urination to flush excess sodium and water from the body. This effect can further lower blood pressure, which is dangerous for those already suffering from hypotension (low blood pressure). For these individuals, consuming lemongrass, especially in tea form, could lead to adverse symptoms.
- Dizziness and weakness: A further drop in blood pressure can cause feelings of lightheadedness and physical weakness.
- Fainting: In severe cases, a significant decrease in blood pressure could cause a person to faint.
People with Liver or Kidney Disease
The body relies on the liver and kidneys to process and filter compounds from food and herbs. For those with pre-existing conditions affecting these organs, introducing potent herbs like lemongrass can be risky.
- Kidney strain: High doses of lemongrass tea have been shown to impact kidney function negatively over prolonged use. The diuretic effect can put extra strain on kidneys that are already compromised. A clinical study observed that daily lemongrass tea consumption over 30 days led to a significant decrease in the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and creatinine clearance rate, key indicators of kidney function.
- Liver issues: For individuals with liver disease, the herb's detoxifying properties could be harmful rather than helpful, potentially causing further damage. Always consult a doctor before using lemongrass if you have any liver-related problems.
Comparison: Lemongrass for Healthy Individuals vs. At-Risk Groups
| Feature | Healthy Individuals | At-Risk Groups |
|---|---|---|
| Culinary Use | Generally safe in food amounts. | Use with extreme caution and in moderation, or avoid entirely. |
| Therapeutic Use | Possibly safe for short-term use, but consult a doctor first. | Avoid medicinal doses (tea, supplements, essential oil) due to potential for severe side effects. |
| Kidney Function | No significant risk in moderation; may have diuretic effect. | Potential for negative impact on kidney function with prolonged or high-dose use. |
| Blood Pressure | May slightly lower blood pressure, potentially beneficial for some. | Can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure, leading to weakness or fainting. |
| Allergies | Unlikely to have a reaction unless sensitive. | High risk of allergic reaction, including rashes, hives, and respiratory distress. |
Individuals with Allergies
Though not common, some people may have an allergic reaction to lemongrass. This can occur from both ingestion and topical application of the essential oil. If you experience any of the following symptoms, stop using lemongrass immediately and seek medical attention:
- Skin rashes, hives, or itching
- Swelling of the face, tongue, or throat
- Difficulty breathing
- Dizziness or rapid heart rate
People on Specific Medications
Lemongrass can interact with various medications, altering their effectiveness and potentially causing harmful side effects. These interactions can be complex and are not always fully understood, making medical consultation essential.
- Diabetes medication: Because lemongrass can lower blood sugar, it may amplify the effects of diabetes medications, leading to dangerously low blood sugar levels (hypoglycemia).
- Blood pressure medication: The blood pressure-lowering effect of lemongrass can increase the potency of antihypertensive drugs, leading to excessively low blood pressure.
- Blood thinners: Lemongrass may increase the risk of bleeding when taken alongside anticoagulants or aspirin.
- Liver-processed drugs: Lemongrass can affect how the liver breaks down certain medications, including sedatives and drugs with CYP1A1 or CYP3A4 substrates, changing their effects.
- Chemotherapy drugs: Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center advises that patients undergoing chemotherapy should avoid lemongrass, as it may interfere with the action of some chemotherapeutic agents.
Conclusion: Prioritize Safety with Lemongrass
In conclusion, while lemongrass offers a range of potential health benefits, it is not suitable for everyone. Pregnant and breastfeeding women, those with low blood pressure, and individuals with liver or kidney diseases should exercise extreme caution or avoid it entirely. Furthermore, anyone taking medication for conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, or undergoing chemotherapy must consult a healthcare professional before consuming lemongrass, as it can cause dangerous interactions. For individuals with a history of allergic reactions, vigilance is necessary. When in doubt, prioritize safety by seeking expert medical advice before making lemongrass a regular part of your diet.
