Lemongrass, or fragrant grass or citronella, is a medicinal plant rich in citral, limonene and geraniol, bioactive compounds with antioxidant action.
It is a herb native to India that belongs to the Poaceae family. It is grown in many areas with a tropical climate because it grows best in regions with a hot and humid environment.
It forms large clumps and has very fragrant, rough, narrow, long and cutting light green leaves. The leaf, when crushed, gives off a strong lemon scent.
The plant is native to tropical regions of Asia, and it has a distinctive citrusy flavour that is prized for its ability to enhance the taste of many different dishes. It is commonly used in both culinary and medicinal applications.
In culinary applications, lemongrass is used in many different ways, it can be used in cooking, being especially famous in the cuisine of Vietnam, Thailand and Malaysia. The herb contributes to flavouring teas, curries and soups.
It can also be used to add a citrusy flavor to marinades and dressings. The plant is also used to make tea, which is a popular beverage in many parts of the world.
Lemongrass is a source of vitamin A, and B complex vitamins, vitamin C, folate and minerals such as potassium, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, manganese, copper, zinc and iron;
In medicinal applications, the uses of lemongrass are also quite varied. Firstly, it is believed to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties and has been used for centuries in traditional medicine to treat a wide range of health conditions.
Lemongrass is used to treat digestive issues, headaches, and fever but the most popular medicinal use of lemongrass is an essential oil, the oil that is extracted from lemon grass is used in many different skincare products because of its antifungal and antimicrobial properties that can reduce the risk of infection.
This oil is also used in aromatherapy to promote relaxation and reduce stress, it also relieves various discomforts of the digestive system. Lemongrass is a plant that is definitely worth exploring further.
One will wonder, since lemongrass has all these benefits and advantages to health, Can dogs eat lemongrass? The truth is, Lemongrass is toxic to dogs due to the cyanogenic glycosides and oils in the plant but In very small amounts, lemongrass has a lot of benefits for dogs.
Keep reading this article to find out more interesting things about dogs and lemongrass.
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Can Dogs Eat Lemongrass? – Understanding Lemongrass
Lemongrass has a number of benefits for humans, here is a breakdown of the benefits of lemongrass to human health.
1. Digestive Health
Lemongrass is prescribed to help tackle digestive issues since it acts as a natural diuretic. It can help to ease nausea, constipation, and bloating, and soothe your stomach to keep the digestive system on track.
A study published in the Journal of Young Pharmacists examined the effects of lemongrass tea on digestion. Researchers found that lemongrass tea leaves have protective effects against gastric ulcers and stomach issues caused by aspirin and absolute ethanol.
Additionally, lemongrass has been shown to have antimicrobial properties, which can help to reduce the risk of bacterial infections in the gut.
2. Pain Relief
Since lemongrass might help calm inflammation and swelling in the body, there’s also a chance it could reduce pain.
In a small 2017 study, daily topical lemongrass oil use helped decrease pain levels in folks with rheumatoid arthritis. Generally, pain levels decreased from 80 to 50 per cent within 30 days.
Lemongrass oil is also often recommended for relief from headaches. The calming and soothing effects of lemongrass oil have the power to relieve the pain, pressure, or tension that can cause headaches. Studies have shown that the plant has analgesic properties, which can help to reduce pain and discomfort.
3. Immune System Support
Lemongrass is a good source of antioxidants, which can help to protect the body against damage from free radicals. Lemongrass oil can help to boost your immune system with its antimicrobial and therapeutic properties. In vitro, research has also shown that the oil can reduce pro-inflammatory cytokines in the body, which can contribute to illness.
Lemongrass facilitates the absorption of nutrients in your body, thereby helping strengthen the body and acting as an immune system booster. This eventually protects your system from disease and keeps it functioning well for a long time.
4. Stress Reduction
Lemongrass has long been used in aromatherapy to promote relaxation and reduce stress. Studies have shown that inhaling the scent of lemongrass essential oil can help to reduce anxiety and promote feelings of calmness.
The tea contains compounds that help to calm the nervous system and reduce anxiety and stress levels. It also has a mild sedative effect that can promote restful sleep. Drinking a cup of lemongrass tea before bedtime can help you get a good night’s sleep and wake up feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
5. Skin Health
Lemongrass has been used in skin and hair care routines for decades as it’s considered to be a magical herb containing several benefits.
It is said to be a potent cleanser and can remove impurities and dirt from the pores, and detoxify the skin to reveal a fresher and clearer look.
Because of its antibacterial qualities, lemongrass oil works as a great tool for fighting pimple-causing bacteria when used in skincare products.
Additionally, Lemongrass essential oil is very effective in fighting head lice as it has a distinct fragrance and aroma which makes it inevitable for the head lice to thrive on the scalp.
6. Cardiovascular Health
lemongrass has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties. Inflammation is thought to play a role in many conditions, including heart disease and stroke. According to the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, two of the main compounds in lemongrass, citral and geranial, are thought to be responsible for their anti-inflammatory benefits.
Lemongrass may also have potential benefits for cardiovascular health. Studies have shown that lemongrass may help to reduce cholesterol levels in the blood.
7. Cancer Prevention
While more research is needed in this area, some studies have suggested that lemongrass may have the potential as a cancer-fighting agent.
One study found that citral, the compound found in lemongrass, was able to induce apoptosis (cell death) in cancer cells. Additionally, other studies have shown that lemongrass may be able to inhibit the growth of cancer cells in the laboratory.
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Types Of Lemongrass
- Cymbopogon citratus -also known as nard grass and mana grass, originates from Java Island in Indonesia. This species of lemongrass also grows in compact, dense clumps and produces tall, arching leaf stems that are tinted yellow or reddish-purple.
The plant requires lots of sun and moisture and grows best in sandy loam soil with good drainage and a pH of 5.8 to 8.0. This tropical plant from southern Asia is often used in cooking particularly in chicken dishes; this plant is generally non-toxic although it can cause some gastrointestinal distress if eaten in large quantities
2. Cymbopogon nardus – Also known as citronella grass, this plant looks similar to lemongrass but has maroon stems; citronella grass is the source of the natural insect repellent, citronella oil.
It is the variety of lemongrass from which citronella oil is produced. Most people are familiar with this oil as an insect repellent, although it is also used as a flavouring agent and in the manufacture of cosmetics and perfumes.
3. Cymbopogon winterianus – Java citronella was developed in the 19th century from the Cymbopogon nardus, originating from Java Island in Indonesia. This species of lemongrass also grows in compact, dense clumps and produces tall, arching leaf stems that are tinted yellow or reddish-purple. The plant requires lots of sun and moisture and grows best in sandy loam soil with good drainage and a pH of 5.8 to 8.0.
This plant also produces citronella oil, up to twice as much as the original citronella plant, and is often used in perfumes
Dietary Consideration For Dogs
As dog owners, it is important to be sure of what you are feeding your dogs, Dogs may be said to be eating everything that humans eat, but there are some foods that are toxic to dogs, let’s take a look at the safe and unsafe foods for your dog
Safe Foods for Dogs
1. Lean Meats: Lean meats like chicken, turkey, and beef are great sources of protein for dogs. All types of meat protein are great but generally leaner meats with greater nutrients like kangaroo and salmon are slightly preferable and a small proportion of organ meat is a great nutritional boost.
Lean proteins are low in calories and yet rich in essential amino acids. Always cook meat well. Never serve it raw or undercooked.
2. Fish: Fish is a great source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which can help to support healthy skin and coat.Dogs can eat certain types of deboned, cooked fish. While whitefish, salmon, and sardines can be a safe addition to a balanced diet.
If your dog does not have a fish allergy, you can also feed your dog fish oil supplements to promote healthy skin and boost their immune system.
3. Fruits: Many fruits are safe for dogs to eat, including apples, blackberries, papaya, bananas, and blueberries. For example, Apples Contain vitamin A, vitamin C, and fiber, and there are also phytochemicals in the skin, which have been found to combat the growth of cancer cells in laboratory studies.
On the other hand, fruits like Cherries, Grapefruits, Grapes,Lemons,Limes, Plums might be toxic to your dogs so to be on a safe side, always contact your vet.
Also, note that even fruits that aren’t on this list can pose a problem to your particular dog, so do your research, feed only small amounts at first, and be on the lookout for signs of a bad reaction.
4. Vegetables: Many vegetables are also safe for dogs to eat, including carrots, green beans, and sweet potatoes. While some vegetables like asparagus and onions can be bad for them. Dogs should never eat onions. Onions, leeks, and chives are part of a family of plants called Allium that is poisonous to most pets, especially cats.
Eating onions can cause your dog’s red blood cells to rupture, and can also cause vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, and nausea. Poisoning from onions is more serious in Japanese breeds of dogs like Akitas and Shiba Inus,
5. Eggs: Eggs are a great source of nutrition for your dog. They’re high in protein, fats, and vitamins that will benefit your dog immensely. It can be a healthy addition to your dog’s diet
A cooked entire egg or yolk can be good for your dog unless your pet has a pre-existing health condition like acute pancreatitis or diabetes. Dogs should never eat raw or undercooked eggs. Raw eggs aren’t safe at all.
Unsafe Foods For Dogs
1. Chocolate: Chocolate is toxic because it contains a chemical called theobromine, as well as caffeine. Theobromine is the main toxin in chocolate and is very similar to caffeine.
The darker the chocolate, the more poisonous it is theobromine it contains, so be sure to keep all chocolate away from your dog.
You should not give chocolate of any kind to dogs. It can cause symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, hyperactivity, and seizures.
2. Grapes and Raisins: Grapes and raisins are not good for dogs, Grapes and raisins are toxic to dogs and can lead to acute kidney failure or even death.
The exact toxic substance in grapes and raisins is unknown, but it’s believed that it could be the inability of dogs to metabolize flavonoids, tannins, and monosaccharides from the grapes.
Even small amounts can be toxic, so be sure to keep all grapes and raisins away from your dog.
3. Nutmeg & Cinnamon
Dogs should not be fed any foods with nutmeg. This spice may cause hallucinations and severe vomiting. So even if your dog is begging for a cookie spiced with nutmeg, don’t give in.
Cinnamon should also be avoided, not because it’s toxic, but because it can irritate your dog’s mouth and sometimes lead to low blood sugar, which can have serious health effects on your pup
4. Onions and Garlic: Onions and garlic are part of the Allium family of foods. This family of foods includes onions, garlic, chives, shallots, and leeks. This whole food family is toxic to dogs and cats.
Whether raw or cooked, fried or powdered, onions and the rest of the allium family (garlic, shallots, leeks, and chives) are harmful to dogs
Onions and garlic contain compounds that can damage a dog’s red blood cells, leading to anaemia.
5. Avocado: Avocado contains a compound called persin, which can be toxic to dogs. Avocados, if eaten too much, may also trigger fluid accumulation in the lungs and chest.
This can lead to difficulty breathing and death from oxygen deprivation. So if your dog must eat avocados, give them in small quantities.
6. Alcohol: can also be toxic to dogs, Dogs cannot metabolize alcohol, so beverages, foods, or household products containing different forms of alcohol are unhealthy
It causes vomiting, diarrhea, difficulty breathing, and even death. If left untreated, alcohol poisoning in dogs can cause organ failure and death.
Be sure to keep all alcohol away from your dog.
First and foremost, the health and safety of our pets should always be a top priority. As dog owners, it’s your responsibility to make sure that you feed your dog a balanced diet that meets all of their nutritional needs.
One of the main concerns about feeding lemongrass to dogs is the potential for toxicity. While lemongrass is generally considered safe for humans, there is some evidence to suggest that it can be toxic to dogs. In particular, there are concerns that lemongrass can cause liver damage in dogs, which can be a serious and potentially life-threatening condition.
Another concern about feeding lemongrass to dogs is the potential for allergic reactions. Some dogs may be allergic to lemongrass, which can cause a range of symptoms including itching, swelling, and difficulty breathing. While these reactions are relatively rare, they can be serious and require immediate veterinary attention.
Finally, it’s important to investigate the safety of feeding lemongrass to dogs because there is currently a lack of research on the topic.
While there have been some studies on the effects of lemongrass on human health, there is very little information available on the effects of lemongrass on dogs.
This means that we don’t know for sure whether or not lemongrass is safe for dogs to eat, and more research is needed to determine its safety.
Precautions And Guidelines
Is Lemongrass Toxic to Dogs?, let’s look at some Vet Approved Nutrition Facts by Dr. Karyn Kanowski (Veterinarian)
- What Makes Lemongrass Toxic?
Lemongrass contains substances called cyanogenic glycosides. These substances are converted in the body via enzymes into cyanide. Cyanide essentially causes oxygen to stop being brought into the tissues by the body; this makes cyanide poisoning potentially fatal. However, cyanogenic glycosides are much less potent and are not converted into cyanide unless they come into contact with the enzymes (present in saliva) as an animal chews.
Typically, only a small amount of cyanide is converted by eating plants like lemongrass, and dogs would have to eat a lot of it for fatal cyanide poisoning to occur. However, there are signs of toxicity to be aware of, and even a small amount of lemongrass can cause gastrointestinal upset in dogs.
While the chemicals in lemongrass are toxic, the plant’s sharp leaves and fibrous nature are more concerning. If a dog eats a large portion of lemongrass, it can very easily cause gastrointestinal blockage. GI blockages can quickly become fatal and are extremely dangerous for dogs.
2. What Happens When a Dog Eats Lemongrass?
If your dog eats a small amount of lemongrass, it’s unlikely that they’ll experience adverse effects. However, if you suspect your dog has ingested lemongrass, it’s important to contact your vet immediately.
Initial signs of illness:
Vomiting
Nausea
Stomach Pain
Drooling
If your dog has eaten a larger amount of lemongrass, it might show more severe signs of illness.
Signs of severe illness:
Breathing difficulties and laboured breathing
Ataxia (wobbling gait)
Heart rate changes
Cherry red mucous membranes (tongue and gums)
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3. What Should I Do if My Dog Eats Lemongrass?
If your dog has gotten into lemongrass, you should take them to your veterinarian for treatment. First, try to determine exactly how much your dog has eaten.
Then, once in the vet’s office, explain how your dog got to the lemongrass and tell them about any signs of illness they’ve experienced. Treatment will likely be based on your dog’s signs, but each case will differ.
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Alternative To Lemongrass
1. Lemon zest
This is the closest common ingredient to lemongrass, though the fragrance is not as intense and complex as lemongrass. Substitute about 1/2 teaspoon of lemon zest for each stalk of lemongrass.
2. Kaffir Lime Leaves
The great thing about Kaffir lime leaves is that they are quite similar to the citrusy, tangy flavour of lemongrass. Make sure to tear the leaves to remove the midrib before adding them to your dish. Also, make sure to remove the leaves after cooking.
1 stalk of lemongrass = 1 Kaffir lime leaf Best used for all dishes that have a liquid base, so that the leaves can infuse and leave their full flavor.
3. Basil, Mint or Coriander (Cilantro)
Another option is to skip the lemongrass in your finished dish but serve with fresh herbs like basil, mint or coriander (cilantro). Note that the flavor won’t be the same but extra aromatics from the herbs will help you feel like you are not entirely missing out on the lemongrass in your dog’s meals.
4. Preserved Lemon
This is a bit left-field, but the Moroccan preserved lemons do have a fragrance that is vaguely similar to lemongrass. Preserved lemons are a LOT more salty though, so be prepared to use less seasoning. I’d start with 1 teaspoon of chopped preserved lemon for each stalk of lemongrass.
Symptoms Of Lemongrass Poisoning In Dogs
If your dog decides to nibble on any lemongrass from your garden, he is unlikely to suffer any ill effects. This long grass is generally non-toxic in nature, however, If you feel your dog has consumed more Lemongrass than they can take, keep an eye out for the following symptoms as a concerned dog parent:
- Discomfort in the abdomen: An obstructed gastrointestinal system might make your dog appear distressed or uneasy. They may even appear to walk with their shoulders slumped.
- Vomiting: Caused by a blockage induced by the fibrous section of the Lemongrass, which irritates the digestive system and causes vomiting.
- Diarrhoea: A symptom of a blockage that causes an upset stomach.
- Blockage caused: A huge lump of Lemongrass might cause the abdomen to appear larger.
- Having difficulty defecating: A blockage in the digestive tract may cause straining while defecating.
How To Treat Lemongrass Poisoning In Dogs
As a general rule, contact your vet to decide the best treatment plan for your dog if they eat lemongrass. If your furry friend consumes only small quantities and has mild symptoms, consider these pet care remedies for treating lemongrass poisoning:
- Give your dog water. Fluid therapy is a common treatment for minor to severe lemongrass poisoning in dogs. Giving your dog water helps flush out the intestinal blockage caused by lemongrass.
- Inducing vomiting if another toxic substance is detected and it is indicated
- Monitor their behavior. Observe your dog’s behaviour over the next twenty-four hours to determine its symptoms. Some signs to look for include loss of appetite, fever, vomiting, and an increased respiratory rate.
- Activated charcoal to bind and remove toxins
- Seek medical attention. If your dog’s symptoms worsen, contact ASPCA Animal Poison Control or your local veterinarian for supportive care. In severe cases of lemongrass poisoning, your dog might need intravenous or surgical treatment to clear the intestinal blockage.
- Surgery to remove the blockage if it is severe enough
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Conclusion
In conclusion, at this point you can now answer the question, can dogs eat lemongrass? and according to this article, a few bites are not hazardous, but most of them are deadly. As a result, despite the fact that this variety of grass has numerous health benefits for both humans and pets, it’s still important to seek your Veterinarian advice before giving it to your dog.
Lemongrass has antibacterial and antifungal properties. Moreover, its essential oil is a great flea repellent. Mix a small amount of essential oil in ½ cup of water and spray it on your dog’s bedding.
Keep in mind not to directly spray it on the dog’s fur. There are chances of your dog licking it. Lemongrass essential oil can be toxic for your dog. Directly applying it to a dog’s skin can also cause irritable itching.
If you suspect your dog has ingested lemongrass and is exhibiting poisoning symptoms, seek veterinary care immediately.
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