Lemons (Citrus limon) are a species of small evergreen tree. The origin is unknown but thought to have originally been grown in Northeast India. It is believed to be a hybrid between bitter orange and citron

The lemon is the most popular citrus fruit of the world

The yellow fruit is used for both culinary and non-culinary purposes throughout the world

The juice is about 5 – 6% citric acid with a pH of about 2.2, giving it its sour taste making it a key ingredient in drinks and foods

The pulp and rind (zest) are mainly used in cooking and baking

There are many health benefits of lemons – to mention only just a few:

• They are a good source of vitamin C which aids heart health
• They are good to aid weight loss
• The citric acid content aids in the breakdown and prevention of kidney stones developing
• They protect against anaemia
• They help to improve digestive health
• ……………….and many,  many more

Lemon essential oil is extracted from the rind, using the cold pressed method

Lemon essential oil has calming and detoxifying properties and has a range of benefits for everyone:

• It is an astringent
• It has anti-infection, antiseptic, anti-fungal, disinfecting and detoxifying properties
• It is recommended for reducing excessive oil on the skin
• Due to its calming nature it is stress relieving, and is good for exhaustion, anxiety, fatigue, insomnia and nervous tension
• It has the ability to refresh the mind and create a positive effect
• It is believed that inhaling lemon essential oil helps to increase concentration and alertness – therefore good for a room freshener in offices
• Lemon essential oil is good for boosting the immune system as it stimulates the white blood cells, increasing the ability to fight off diseases
• It also increases blood circulation throughout the body
• Inhaling lemon essential oil aids in the clearing of congested nasal passages therefore good for relieving breathing associated ailments
• Lemon essential oil is a carminative therefore good for the treatment of various stomach disorders such as indigestion, cramps, upset stomach and too much acidity
• It is known to assist in relieving pain

Apart from the many health benefits – lemon essential oil has many other advantages:

• As a cleanser – it is good for cleansing of the body as well as metal surfaces, dishes and clothing
• As a disinfectant – it is well known for the cleaning of surfaces that are easily contaminated such as wooden chopping blocks or boards
• Perfumes – it has a distinct refreshing aroma which makes it a good ingredient in perfumes as well as potpourris and candles
• Cosmetics – due to its antiseptic qualities it is widely used in soaps, body and face washes and many other skin care products

Lemon essential oil blends well with other essential oils such as lavender, neroli, sandalwood, geranium, tea tree and ylang ylang

Pure lemon essential oil should not be applied directly onto the skin; it should always be diluted into carrier oil first then applied

As all citrus essential oils are phototoxic it is advised to be careful of direct sun exposure once applied onto the skin