Lemon Oil: A Natural Roman Tonic
(DetoxifySamurai) Lemon essential oil, also known as Citrus limon oil, is extracted from lemon peels, which have many volatile oil glands in their pits. Approximately 1,000 lemons are needed to produce one pound of lemon oil The citrus scent of lemons comes from a chemical compound called limonene, which comprises the majority of lemon oil
Lemons were used by ancient Indians, Egyptians, and Romans as a remedy for infectious diseases. Today, they are commonly grown in Europe and the United States, and are used in various products.
Uses of Lemon Oil
Apart from being used in making lemonade, lemon oil can be used as:
- Food ingredient – A tasty addition to pastries like pies, cakes, and marinades
- Aromatherapy oil and air freshener because of its pleasant citrus fragrance
- Medicine – Used to treat health problems like headaches, diabetes, high blood pressure, respiratory problems, and asthma
- Gargle – To relieve sore throat, mouth inflammations, and tonsillitis
- Treatment for calluses and warts – Applying it to affected areas regularly can help reduce the appearance of these on your skin.
- Skin and hair product – Can help treat blemished skin, exfoliate dead skin, and reduce acne. It can also improve appearance of hair and used to remove dandruff. Lemon oil is also added to personal care products.
- Disinfectant – An ideal disinfectant for chopping boards, countertops, public bathrooms, and even hospitals
- Spot remover – Can help remove gum, oil, and grease stains from clothes and surfaces
- Insect repellent and insect bite treatment – Works as natural repellent and antibacterial
Benefits of Lemon Oil
Because of lemon’s outstanding nutrient profile, it helps treat numerous health conditions. Lemon oil helps:
- Fight respiratory infections like bronchitis, coughs, and sore throat. It can also bring relieve to discomfort from colds, fevers, flu, and asthma.
- Support immune function by stimulating the production of white blood cells
- Inhibit inflammation
- Soothe acidity and heartburn, as it is helps balance your stomach pH level.
- Address constipation and promote elimination of waste
- Relive arthritis, due to its anti-inflammatory properties
- Lower blood pressure and promote healthy blood circulation
- Detoxify your skin and body of toxins
- Control overactive sebaceous glands that contribute to acne and poor hair conditions
- Reduce broken capillaries and varicose veins
- Sanitize wounds, household objects, and hospital rooms due to its antibacterial properties
- Calm anxiety, improve mood, and prevent emotional outbursts and violent behavior
How Does Lemon Oil Work?
Lemon oil can be added to foods and beverages, or applied topically on your skin or on surfaces. Below are some ways on how lemon oil works its magic:7,8,9
- Adding two to three drops of lemon oil to tea or warm water can help relieve sore throat.
- Applying a few drops of lemon oil to your nails can strengthen them. It may also help kill nail fungus.
- Applying a drop or two of lemon oil behind your ears can calm you down.
- Applying two to three drop of lemon oil to cold sores, calluses, or blisters daily can help remove them.
- Using one to two drops of lemon oil can help remove stains due to oil, grease, and crayon marks.
- One to two drops of lemon oil can help sterilize countertops and surfaces.
- Soaking dishcloths overnight in water with a drop of lemon oil can disinfect them.
- Rubbing lemon oil on your hands can help sanitize them.
- Apply a few drops of lemon oil on cotton balls and use on your skin for cleansing.
- Use lemon oil in a diffuser to spread its fruity scent.
- When inhaled, lemon oil can help improve mood.
Is Lemon Oil Safe?
It is advisable not to use lemon oil without diluting it first, as it can irritate skin. It must be used with a carrier oil for direct application to skin. Effective carrier oils include coconut oil, olive oil, and jojoba oil.
There are findings showing that lemon oil may promote photosensitivity, which increases your sensitivity to the sun and may lead to sunburn and uneven darkening of the skin. I also recommend you to avoid applying lemon oil and other citrus oils to your skin when outdoors, as blistering may occur.
People with sensitivities should use essential oils with caution. Reactions can vary from person to person. Some may experience skin reactions, while some may have respiratory problems. Consult your physician first before use. Pregnant women and children should also see a doctor before applying lemon oil.
