EFFECT OF CYMBOPOGON CITRATUS ON BLOOD PRESSURE: PHARMACODYNAMIC ANALYSIS

Abstract

This study is characterized as a qualitative research with an exploratory and descriptive approach, developed through an integrative literature review. The objective was to analyze, based on scientific evidence, the pharmacodynamic effects of Cymbopogon citratus (lemongrass) on blood pressure reduction and its possible contribution to the control of systemic arterial hypertension. The search was conducted in the databases Google Scholar, SciELO, PubMed, and Virtual Health Library (VHL), using descriptors related to the plant, hypertension, pharmacodynamics, and medicinal plants. Articles published between 2020 and 2024, available in full text, in Portuguese, English, and Spanish were included. The results showed that Cymbopogon citratus contains bioactive compounds such as citral, flavonoids, and terpenes, which are responsible for vasodilatory, diuretic, antioxidant effects, and possible action on cardiac activity, contributing to blood pressure reduction. However, limitations were identified, including methodological heterogeneity, lack of dosage standardization, and scarcity of clinical trials in humans. It is concluded that lemongrass has potential as a complementary therapy in the control of arterial hypertension; however, its use should be carried out with caution and professional guidance, and further studies are needed to confirm its efficacy and safety.