Can adding Lemongrass stalks to green tea heal headaches?

Time of India

11-06-2025

Green tea and lemongrass both possess strong anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate headaches caused by muscle tension or sinus inflammation. Green tea contains catechins, especially epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), known for reducing oxidative stress and inflammation.
A study published in the Journal of Medicinal Food (2010) confirmed that lemongrass essential oil reduces inflammation and swelling, making the combination effective for managing pain and pressure associated with headaches.
Why lemongrass?
Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) is a fragrant herb known for its citrusy aroma and a wide range of medicinal properties. It contains essential oils like citral, limonene, and myrcene, which have anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and calming effects.
Traditionally used in herbal teas and home remedies, lemongrass has long been praised in Ayurveda and folk medicine for its ability to relieve pain and tension.
Reduces pain and inflammation
One of the key ways lemongrass helps ease headaches is through its natural anti-inflammatory action. Studies published in The Journal of Advanced Pharmaceutical Technology & Research show that lemongrass extracts can reduce inflammation and muscle tension, which are often underlying causes of tension headaches and migraines.
The compound citral acts similarly to mild pain relievers, offering natural comfort without side effects.
Stress related headaches
Drinking lemongrass tea made by steeping fresh or dried stalks can promote relaxation and reduce stress-induced headaches. It works as a mild sedative, helping lower cortisol levels and calming the nervous system. This makes it especially effective for headaches caused by anxiety, fatigue, or lack of sleep.
The soothing aroma itself contributes to mental calmness and clearer focus.
Boosts circulation and detoxification
Lemongrass also enhances blood circulation, which is essential for delivering oxygen to brain cells and relieving vascular headaches. Its detoxifying properties help clear toxins from the body that may trigger or worsen headaches. A well-functioning liver and digestive system, supported by lemongrass, also play an indirect role in reducing headache frequency.
What studies say
Lemongrass is a mild sedative that calms the nervous system, while green tea contains L-theanine, an amino acid known to improve mental focus and reduce anxiety. According to a study in the Journal of Clinical Biochemistry and Nutrition (2007), L-theanine in green tea significantly lowers cortisol levels and improves relaxation without sedation. When used together, they target tension-related headaches by reducing mental and physical stress, a common trigger for headaches.
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