Lemons, Limes, and the entire line of citrus fruits have a wealth of health and cleaning benefits. So, let’s take a deeper look at lemons.
Lemons originally came from Asia. As western travelers made their way east, they learned of the medicinal uses for the lemon tree, the amazing smell of the flowers, and the sour and addictive flavor of the fruit, and the seeds were spread around the world. In Chinese medicine lemons are known to regulate blood circulation, clear heat, eliminate toxins, and resolve phlegm. While the taste is sour and acidic, in the body it is produces alkaline byproducts clearing toxins and neutralizing the body. Lemons are high in Vitamin C which is beneficial for healthy skin and a healthy immune system.
Recommended reading: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/citrus-fruit-benefits#TOC_TITLE_HDR_9
More recommended reading: https://www.nevadaappeal.com/news/2016/jun/14/natural-living-the-medicinal-power-of-lemons/
Lemon or lime juice in a cup of room temperature water as soon as you rise helps with constipation, purify the blood, cleanses the liver and kidneys. The same mixture if sipped throughout the day helps boost your metabolism and aids in weight management. Remember to rinse your mouth afterwards as the acids in citrus will eat the enamel from your teeth.
Lemon water is also recommended to fight nausea and heartburn. Yes, while lemons and limes taste acidic, they become alkaline in the stomach (like vinegar) and neutralize stomach acids.
Citrus when mixed with honey will actually increase the absorption of the antioxidants by as much as 4%. And when added to broccoli or spinach will increase the amount of iron absorbed. Like vinegar when added to dishes will reduce the amount of salt needed due to its acidic flavor.
Citrus has been known to stave off both Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases. The flavonoids Nobiletin and Tangeretin found in citrus fruits are known to be neuroprotective aiding in protecting the brain from both diseases.
Recommended reading: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28474543/
More recommended reading: https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fnins.2021.640648/full
Citrus oil (from the peel) has many health benefits as well including breaking down gall stones and kidney stones, breaking down plaque in arteries, and supports normal gastric bile production thereby reducing acid reflux and GERD symptoms.
Recommended reading: https://www.motherearthliving.com/health-and-wellness/citrus-peel-medicine/
Not only are there health benefits to citrus fruits but also personal hygiene and cleaning benefits…. lemons have been used for ages to clean copper pots and removing soap scum from your shower. Lemon oil is also a natural insect repellent – flea treatment and furniture polisher.
Lemons have alpha hydroxyl acid, which most women over the age of 30 knows as the magical wrinkle remover. It aids in removing dead skin cells and encourages growth of new. The high levels of vitamin C promote collagen synthesis increasing the elasticity of the skin. Lemon juice is also well known to remove age spots and scarring on the skin.
Rub rough patches of skin on elbows, knees, and heels with lemon to get rid of the cracked, rough, dry skin. Lemon oil also can be used for your nails to whiten and strengthen them – it also fights nail fungi. Lemon juice also stops bleeding. Its antibacterial properties also fight poison ivy.
Lemons have always been used around the house. They are an antibacterial and an antiseptic two wonderful things in your kitchen – kills bacteria, removes mold and mildew and aids in wound tending. They are inexpensive and can be used almost everywhere leaving behind a crisp citrus smell.
Recommended reading: https://blancliving.co/blogs/news/7-clever-ways-to-clean-with-lemons
Next stop the grocery store for a huge bag of lemons, yes?!
Blessings – E