Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) Essential Oil
A well-known essential oil that has been shown to be effective against Candida is lemongrass essential oil.
Lemongrass Essential Oil as a Yeast Infection Remedy
If you are looking for a more natural alternative to treat a yeast infection, lemongrass essential oil has been validated as an effective option. Lemongrass is also known by the scientific taxonomy “Cymbopogon citratus.” There are other species of lemongrass, but citratus is preferred for medical use. Lemongrass is a perennial plant that has sharp leaves and is similar in appearance to grass. It prefers tropical and subtropical areas to grow in and can be found in India, China, and other areas of Southeast Asia.
It is often wise to use a mixture of various Candicidal essential oils when you want to get rid of a yeast infection. Mixing herbs together for an improved cure is advocated by the renowned Dr. James A. Duke. Dr. Duke suggested in his book, The Green Pharmacy, that using multiple herbs together in a natural remedy would probably always work better than a single herb. Make sure you choose actual essential oils that can stop yeast though; not just any oil will do. Allergic reactions are rare; however, to be safe, conduct a patch test of lemongrass oil on your skin to see how you react to it.
To properly treat a vaginal yeast infection, consider mixing several antifungal essential oils together to increase their potency. As mentioned elsewhere on this website, Dr. James Duke, the renowned herbalist, suggests mixing natural remedies creates a synergistic effect. Try a few essential oils together as an effective remedy for yeast infection. You could use the oils mentioned in the study above as a start.
For information on the research behind lemongrass and yeast infections, Citral: The Key Component of Lemongrass essential oil as well as biofilm inhibition by lemongrass oil visit: Candida Hub page.
How to Take Lemongrass Oil
Topical Use
You may use this oil undiluted directly on the area of concern.
Oral Use
Lemongrass oil is generally regarded as safe for human consumption by the U.S. FDA. Put one drop of this oil in 4 ounces of liquid or 1 teaspoon of honey. Do not allow children under 6 years of age to ingest this oil!
Cautions
This oil may cause extreme skin irritation. This oil may cause phototoxicity; meaning that if you expose the area you applied it to direct sunlight, damage to the skin may occur.
Other Uses for Lemongrass Essential Oil
Digestive Problems
If you suffer from flatulence, have a stomach ache, or are constipated, you may find some relief by ingesting a little lemongrass oil.
Inflammation
Lemongrass oil is one of the best essential oils to use for treating inflammation. It is also an analgesic which can ameliorate pain in the body.
Hair Maladies
If you have scalp conditions or oily hair, lemongrass might be able to mitigate these problems to a degree. Lemongrass can improve your hair follicles. You may want to mix up a solution with water and use every day when you shower.
Infection
Lemongrass, as stated, is an antiviral; but this oil is also an antibacterial. If you have a bacterial or fungal skin condition, try using this oil on the problem area.
