A 2025 scientific review identifies citral in lemongrass as a compound that may interrupt inflammatory processes linked to major diseases.
By yourNEWS Media Newsroom
A 2025 review of scientific literature has identified citral, a primary compound found in lemongrass, as a substance that may reduce chronic inflammation by targeting underlying cellular signaling pathways, according to findings published in Pharmacological Research – Natural Products.
Researchers concluded that citral interferes with biological signals that sustain inflammation, a process associated with a range of long-term health conditions. Chronic inflammation differs from acute inflammation, which is a short-term and localized response to injury or infection. Instead, chronic inflammation is described in medical literature as a persistent, low-grade process that can damage tissues and organs over time.
The review found that citral acts earlier in the inflammatory cascade, reducing the initial signals that trigger inflammation rather than addressing downstream symptoms. This mechanism was identified as a potential factor in lowering long-term disease risk.
Chronic inflammation has been linked to conditions including cardiovascular disease, diabetes and autoimmune disorders. Researchers noted that the prolonged nature of this type of inflammation often allows it to progress without noticeable symptoms for extended periods.
In addition to laboratory findings, human studies cited in the review examined the effects of lemongrass consumption on cardiovascular markers. One study involving 72 participants reported that individuals who consumed lemongrass tea daily experienced reductions in systolic blood pressure and heart rate compared to a control group.
A broader analysis of multiple human studies reported consistent findings, suggesting that citral may support cardiovascular function through several mechanisms. These include promoting blood vessel relaxation, improving circulation and assisting in the regulation of fluid balance.
Researchers noted that elevated blood pressure affects a significant portion of the adult population, and dietary interventions remain an area of continued study. Lemongrass, commonly consumed as an herbal tea, has drawn attention as a potential non-pharmaceutical approach to supporting cardiovascular health.
The plant, known scientifically as Cymbopogon citratus, has a long history of use in South and Southeast Asia, both in cooking and traditional medicine. Modern phytochemical analyses have found that extracts from the plant exhibit antioxidant and antimicrobial properties.
The review also referenced broader dietary approaches, noting that combining multiple plant-based compounds may provide overlapping biological effects. Foods such as turmeric and ginger were identified as containing compounds that act on related inflammatory pathways.
Researchers emphasized that while early findings are promising, further clinical research is needed to fully establish the extent of citral’s effects in human populations.
The findings contribute to a growing body of research examining plant-derived compounds and their role in influencing chronic disease processes.
Source: Natural News
Original article
Comments