Lemon is great!
Originating in China, lemon quickly spread throughout all the ancient world. It was established in the New World in the 1400s, arriving with Columbus. Today, Italy is still one of the best sources forlemon oil.
The fruit has long been associated with freshness and cleanliness; and now, many products are advertised as “lemon scented” to entice buyers.
Today, lemon — and citrus oils, in general — are widely accepted, and FDA has approved it for ingestion.
Lemon oil, as with most citrus oil, is not steam distilled, as are most other essential oils; instead, it is cold pressed, to preserve its delicate natural essence. Under extreme pressure, the rind reluctantly gives up the liquid sunshine, in its untainted, wholesome form.
Like all pure essential oils, lemon has a complete chemical profile, just as it did in nature. Among its chemical constiuents, one of the most impressive is limonene. Limonene has been extensively researched for its protective influence to cells. (All citrus oils contain limonene, as a major component of their chemical structure.)
Lemon oil offers many possibilities for health improvement, due to its defensive attributes, which can easily be distributed throughout the body, even to its very core — your cells!
Key properties of lemon oil
Primary constituents of lemon:
- Monoterpene (limonene 65%)
- Aldehydes 12% (primarily citral)
Some of the therapeutic properties of lemongrass include: anti-bacterial, anti-biotic, antiseptic, anti-viral, astringent, diuretic and disinfectant.
Common uses for lemon oil
One of the easiest ways to receive lemon oil‘s remarkable properties, is throuth diffusion or direct inhalation. It can also be applied to the bottom of the feet, or added to a glass of water, as a purifier and for a quick energizing boost.
Traditionally, lemon oil has many uses.
- It is a powerful antiseptic, and is cleansing to the environment (home or office),
- It has antiseptic-like properties, and contains compounds that have been studied for their effects on immune functions.
- It may serve as an insect repellent,
- It can be an effective means to improve circulation.
- It is a considered to be an excellent antibacterial agent.
- It may be helpful for respiratory infections or inflammation, and,
- Its pleasant, sweet aroma can be uplifting, to lighten any mood.
Historically, adding a few drops of lemon oil to warm water, with a little sweetener, has been used to provide relief from coughs or sore throats. Lemon oil has also been known to be strengthening to fingernails. Simply rub the oil directly on location.
Note: Citrus oils should not be applied to skin that will be exposed to direct sunlight or ultraviolet light within 72 hours.
