





Family
Rutaceae
Genus and specie
Citrus limon
Description of the herb lemon
It is a small deciduous tree bearing thorns on its stems and twigs with dark oval leaves. Highly scented, pale, purple budded white flowers appear in spring and summer, followed by yellow fruits with a very sour pulp or flesh.
Parts used
Fruits, juice, peel, as well as the essential oil is used.
Properties
Classed as a sour to bitter, aromatic and cooling herb, with diuretic, anti-inflammatory properties, helping to improve peripheral circulation.
Therapeutic uses
Internal use
Lemons positively effects blood circulation and is used to treat varicose veins and hemorrhoids. It is also used for kidney stones, minor fevers and bronchial congestion. The lemon peel has stomachic properties. Its antioxidant properties are increased due to its vitamin c content, and the juice, together with honey, is taken in hot water to help with colds and flu.
The zest from the lemon peel has many culinary uses and the whole peel is used to make marmalade. Lemon is also the main ingredient for lemonade, sorbet ice, salad dressings and marinades. The juice is used in making cheese, and the pectin contained in lemons (specifically the peel and pith) helps to set jams and jellies.
External use
Used to soothe poisonous stings and insect bites, eczema, chilblains, sunburn and as a gargle for sore throats. Like lime juice, a few drops can brighten the hair when added to the final rinse water while washing hair. The bioflavonoids contained are good antioxidants, and are useful to reduce permeability of blood vessels and capillaries.
Aromatherapy and essential oil use
This essential oil is refreshing, helping to increase concentration, counteracting acidity in the body, making it useful in arthritis, rheumatism and gout. Lemon essential oil boosts circulation and therefore helps varicose veins and tones the immune system. It decongests the kidneys and liver and helps with constipation and cellulite. On the skin, it helps to clear up greasy congested complexions and is useful for treating cuts, minor wounds, softening scar tissue and smoothing out broken capillaries. It has antacid, antiscorbutic, anti-neuralgic, anti-rheumatic, antiseptic, astringent, bactericide, carminative, cicatrisant, depurative, diuretic, emollient, febrifuge, haemostatic, hepatic, insecticide, laxative, stomachic, tonic and vermifuge properties.
Safety precautions and warnings
Lemon essential oil may irritate sensitive skin and for this reason should be used with care during pregnancy and may also cause photosensitivity.
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