Banana Lemongrass Coconut Smoothie


Your food should be your medicine. If you practice raw lifestyle you know that this definitely is true. The benefits of nutrition rich in vitamins, minerals, enzymes and other vital nutrients cannot be underestimated. Some foods seem to be more powerful healers than others. We call them "superfoods."

One such food is the Cymbopogon citratus or the lemongrass. The plant originated probably in Southern India and is also growing in South East Asia, especially Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia where it has been used for ages as food and as medicine.

Lemongrass contains many active compounds that are known for their antioxidant qualities. The  undoubtedly most important chemical component in lemongrass is citral which has strong anti-microbial and anti-fungal properties. Citral helps inhibit microbial and bacterial growth in the body, both inside and out. This makes the herb a perfect solution for people with candida or those who suffer from bacterial infections in the intestines, stomach, urinary tract and the respiratory system.

Lemongrass is rich in vitamins, especially the folic acid, B1, B5 and B6, A and  C. It also contains high levels of potassium, zinc, calcium, iron, manganese, copper, and magnesium.

The herb has many uses:
  • it helps relieve cough and sore throat
  • it helps lower fever
  • it improves digestion and helps detoxify the body
  • it increases urine flow and detoxifies the kidneys
  • it helps improve the liver function
  • it helps lower the blood lipids
  • it helps improve blood circulation
  • it has a calming effect and helps with anxiety
  • it helps reduce stress and improves the quality of sleep

Lemongrass can be used internally in form of tea or as a spice/herb in food; and externally in aromatherapy. Its essential oil helps restore and revitalize the whole body. It may be used to relieve headaches, nervous exhaustion and stress-related conditions such as anxiety and insomnia.

If you have the chance, buy fresh lemongrass stalks. Use as often as you can to improve overall health.


~ Banana Lemongrass Coconut Smoothie ~

Ingredients:
  • 2 ripe bananas
  • 3-4 lemon grass stalks
  • freshly squeezed juice of 1 lime
  • 1 1/2 cup coconut milk
  • pinch turmeric
  • 1 Tbsp raw honey or a few drops of liquid stevia if you are a strict vegan

Method:
  • Peel the bananas and cut them into manageable chunks. Place in blender.
  • Remove the outer hard layers from the lemon grass stalks and use the slightly softer core. Cut the lemon grass into thin slices. Place in blender.
  • Add the lime juice.
  • Pour the coconut milk into blender and process on a high speed until smooth.
  • Add honey and blend again. Pour into tall glasses and enjoy in good company.

In radiant health, passionately raw - Dominique

Dominique Allmon©2013