Lemongrass

The Hadith references concerning Lemongrass (Idkhir) are among the most clearly recorded narrations in the major Hadith collections. It is highlighted in multiple authentic books because of its special legal exception granted during the Conquest of Mecca (Fath Makkah).

1. The Command on the Sanctity of Mecca & The Exception for Idkhir

The central narration establishes that while cutting trees and grass within the sacred sanctuary (Haram) of Mecca is forbidden, lemongrass (Idkhir) was specifically made lawful due to its necessity in daily public life.

> Narrated Ibn 'Abbas (may Allah be pleased with him):

> "On the day of the Conquest of Mecca, the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said:

> 'Allah has made this city sacred... Its thorn trees shall not be cut, its game shall not be chased, its fallen objects shall not be picked up except by one who publicly announces it, and its green grass shall not be uprooted.'

> Al-'Abbas bin 'Abdul-Muttalib said: 'O Messenger of Allah, except lemongrass (Al-Idkhir), for it is used by our blacksmiths and for our houses (roofs and graves).'

> The Prophet (ﷺ) replied: 'Except lemongrass (Al-Idkhir).'"

>

Primary Sources:

• Sahih al-Bukhari:
• Book of Funerals (Kitab al-Jana'iz): Hadith #1349
• Book of Pilgrimage (Kitab al-Hajj): Hadith #1834
• Book of Sales (Kitab al-Buyu'): Hadith #2090
• Book of Hunting/Slaughter (Kitab ad-Daba'ih): Hadith #5517
• Sahih Muslim:
• Book of Pilgrimage (Kitab al-Hajj): Hadith #1353
• Grading: Muttafaq 'Alayh (Agreed upon for the highest level of authenticity by both Imam al-Bukhari and Imam Muslim).

1. Narration via Abu Hurairah (RA)

Another narration records the exact same dialogue through Abu Hurairah (may Allah be pleased with him):

> Narrated Abu Hurairah (may Allah be pleased with him):

> "When Allah opened Mecca to His Messenger (ﷺ), he stood up among the people, praised and glorified Allah, and then said: 'Allah protected Mecca from the elephant... It is not lawful for anyone before me, nor will it be lawful for anyone after me...' Al-'Abbas said: 'Except Idkhir, O Messenger of Allah, for we put it in our graves and in our houses.' The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said: 'Except Idkhir.'"

>

Primary Sources:

• Sahih al-Bukhari: Hadith #112 & #2434
• Sahih Muslim: Hadith #1355

1. Historical Applications Mentioned in the Hadith

Classical Hadith commentators (such as Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani in Fath al-Bari and Imam an-Nawawi in Sharh Sahih Muslim) highlight four specific practical uses of lemongrass (Idkhir) described directly by the Companions in these narrations:

• Blacksmithing (Linaqinihna / Al-Qayn): Dry lemongrass leaves were used by metalworkers and blacksmiths as quick-burning kindle to ignite furnaces and blowtorches.
• House Roofing & Insulation (Libuyutina): Woven between mud and palm fronds to thatch roofs, line clay walls, and create protective floor mats.
• Burial Rites & Graves (Liquburina): Placed inside the grave niche over the clay bricks (Labin) to seal the gaps, prevent soil from collapsing onto the deceased, and leave a sweet natural fragrance.
• Purification & Cleansing: Frequently used in washhouses and for scenting household water containers.

The medicinal efficacy, distinct citrus fragrance, and therapeutic profile of Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus / Cymbopogon schoenanthus, known as Idkhir in classical Arabic texts) stem from a rich blend of volatile essential oils, bioactive polyphenols, and mineral compounds.

1. Essential Volatile Oils (The Aromatic & Antimicrobial Core)

The essential oil accounts for roughly 0.2% to 0.5% of the plant's total fresh weight and contains over 50 identified bioactive constituents.

• Citral (~65% – 85%): The primary active constituent and source of its strong lemon aroma. Citral is a natural mixture of two geometric isomers:
• Geranial (Citral A): Demonstrates strong antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal activity.
• Neral (Citral B): Works synergistically with geranial to provide anti-inflammatory and smooth-muscle relaxing effects.
• Myrcene (~12% – 25%): A potent monoterpene hydrocarbon that acts as a natural analgesic (pain reliever) and sedative. It also aids in reducing systemic inflammation.
• Geraniol & Limonene: Minor terpenes that enhance skin penetration, improve aromatic quality, and act as natural insect repellents and antioxidants.
• Linalool & Citronellal: Aromatic alcohols that provide mild central nervous system calming and anti-anxiety benefits.

1. Bioactive Polyphenols & Flavonoids (Antioxidants)

Lemongrass contains a diverse array of phenolic compounds that protect cells from oxidative stress and support metabolic function:

• Luteolin & Its Glycosides: Potent natural anti-inflammatories that inhibit pro-inflammatory cytokines (such as TNF-alpha and IL-6).
• Isoorientin & Chlorogenic Acid: Flavonoids that support cardiovascular health, help regulate blood pressure, and improve microcirculation.
• Caffeic Acid: An organic acid with strong antioxidant and tissue-protective properties.

1. Organic Acids & Tannins

• Tannins: Provide natural astringency, helping to tighten mucus membranes, reduce diarrhea, and halt mild bleeding or discharge.
• Saponins: Natural plant glycosides with mild diuretic, cholesterol-cleansing, and immune-stimulating actions.

1. Mineral & Nutritional Matrix

When consumed as a whole-herb decoction or tea, lemongrass yields key micronutrients and electrolytes:

• Minerals: Rich in Potassium (supports fluid balance and blood pressure regulation), Manganese (essential for enzyme function and bone health), Magnesium, Calcium, Iron, and Zinc.
• Vitamins: Contains trace quantities of Folate (Vitamin B9), Niacin (Vitamin B3), and Vitamin A.

Summary Table of Bioactive Fractions

| Chemical Fraction | Key Chemical Constituents | Primary Physiological Actions |

|---|---|---|

| Volatile Essential Oil | Citral (Geranial + Neral), Myrcene, Geraniol | Broad-spectrum antibacterial, antifungal, natural pain relief, smooth muscle antispasmodic |

| Flavonoids & Phenols | Luteolin, Isoorientin, Chlorogenic acid | Neutralizes free radicals, protects blood vessels, lowers systemic inflammation |

| Astringents & Glycosides | Tannins, Saponins | Tightens mucosal tissues, aids digestive cleansing, natural mild diuretic |

| Minerals & Electrolytes | Potassium, Manganese, Magnesium, Iron | Supports heart rhythm, fluid regulation, and healthy urinary flushing |

In both traditional Islamic medicine (Tibb an-Nabawi / Unani) and modern herbal practice, Lemongrass (Idkhir / Cymbopogon) is prepared in several distinct ways depending on whether it is intended for digestive relief, respiratory clearance, topical joint application, or natural fever reduction.

Because lemongrass contains volatile essential oils (primarily citral and myrcene), improper heating can evaporate its therapeutic compounds. Below are the optimal preparation methods.

1. Lemongrass Herbal Tea / Infusion (Fever, Digestion, & Calming)

This is the primary method for extracting water-soluble antioxidants (luteolin, flavonoids) and essential oils for internal use without burning them off.

Ingredients:

• 2–3 fresh lemongrass stalks (or 1–2 tablespoons of dried chopped Idkhir leaves)
• 2 cups pure water
• 1 teaspoon raw pure honey (optional, following Prophetic tradition)
• A small slice of fresh ginger (optional, for cold & phlegm relief)

Preparation Steps:

• Bruising/Crushing: Take the lower bulbous, white section of the fresh lemongrass stalk and bash/crush it gently with a heavy knife or mortar. Crushing ruptures the essential oil glands and releases maximum citral.
• Chopping: Cut the stalk into 1-inch pieces.
• Boiling Water: Bring 2 cups of water to a rolling boil in a pot.
• Infusing (Steeping): Remove the pot from direct flame or turn down to the lowest simmer, add the crushed lemongrass (and ginger), cover with a tight lid, and steep for 8 to 10 minutes. Keeping it covered prevents the volatile steam and aroma from escaping.
• Straining & Sweetening: Strain into a glass or ceramic mug. Stir in raw honey once the tea cools to a comfortable warm drinking temperature.

Usage:

• Drink 1 cup after meals to relieve gas, intestinal bloating, and sluggish digestion.
• Drink warm before bed to promote relaxation, reduce mild fever, and open airways.

1. Respiratory Steam Inhalation (Sinus Congestion & Headaches)

Traditionally used to clear upper respiratory passages, relieve sinus pressure, and soothe tension headaches.

Preparation Steps:

• Slice and crush 3–4 whole fresh stalks of lemongrass.
• Place in a pot with 4 cups of water and bring to a boil for 3–5 minutes.
• Remove the pot from heat and place it on a heat-safe surface.
• Lean over the pot, cover your head and the pot with a clean towel to trap the rising steam.
• Inhale deeply through your nose and mouth for 5 to 10 minutes.

1. Topical Essential Oil / Infused Oil (Joint Pain, Sprains, & Swelling)

In classical Tibb, Idkhir was applied topically to soothe hard swellings, joint aches, and muscle fatigue.

Option A: Fresh Infused Carrier Oil (Traditional Method)

• Coarsely chop and bruise 1 cup of fresh lemongrass.
• Place in a clean, dry glass jar and pour in 1 cup of high-quality Olive Oil (or Sesame Oil) until the leaves are completely submerged.
• Place the sealed jar in a warm water bath (double boiler) on low heat for 1 to 2 hours, or leave it in a sunny window for 1 to 2 weeks.
• Strain out the plant matter and store the infused oil in a dark glass bottle.
• Usage: Rub warm oil directly onto aching knees, joints, or lower back.

Option B: Pure Essential Oil Dilution (Modern Method)

• Mix 3 to 5 drops of pure lemongrass essential oil into 1 tablespoon of carrier oil (such as olive or coconut oil). Never apply neat (undiluted) essential oil directly to sensitive skin.

1. Preparation Precautions

• Avoid Excessive Boiling: Do not boil lemongrass vigorously in an open pot for extended periods; this vaporizes the active citral and ruins its medicinal potency.
• Pregnancy Caution: High therapeutic/concentrated doses or essential oil extracts should be avoided during pregnancy as it can act as an emmenagogue (stimulating uterine lining).
• Skin Sensitivity Test: Perform a small patch test on your inner arm when using topical lemongrass oil for the first time to ensure no contact dermatitis occurs.

Modern biochemical research validates many of the traditional uses of lemongrass:

Citral (Geranial & Neral): The primary active compound (~65%–85% of essential oil). Gives the strong lemon scent and provides potent antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory action.

Geraniol & Myrcene: Monoterpenes that act as natural pain relievers (analgesic), sedatives, and antioxidants.

Flavonoids (Luteolin, Isoorientin): Neutralize free radicals, help lower blood pressure, and protect cardiovascular function.

Polyphenols & Potassium: Act as mild natural diuretics, encouraging fluid balance and kidney detoxification.

1. Preparation & Practical Application

Lemongrass Tea (Digestive & Calming Tonic):

Recipe: Take 1–2 stalks of fresh lemongrass (crushed/bruised to release essential oils) or 1 tablespoon of dried leaves. Boil in 1.5 cups of water for 5–7 minutes.

Usage: Strain, add a teaspoon of raw honey, and drink warm to ease indigestion, clear phlegm, or calm nerves before sleep.

Inhalation Steam (Sinus & Respiratory Relief):

Boil crushed lemongrass stalks in water, remove from heat, and inhale the steam to clear blocked sinuses, relieve headaches, and open respiratory passages.

Topical Oil Massage (Joint & Muscle Pain):

Dilute pure lemongrass essential oil in a carrier oil (such as olive oil or coconut oil) and massage over aching joints or tense muscles.