The wonderful, humble lemon provides an essential oil (citrus lemon) that has a fresh, sharp and uplifting fragrance and offers many incredible health benefits.
It takes as many as 3000 lemons to make a kilogram of essential oil. The oil is pressed from the outer rind of lemons.
Lemon has strong anti-acid, antiseptic, blood purifying and antibacterial properties. It stimulates the immune system. Research has shown that lemon essential oil can kill off diphtheria as well as tuberculosis bacilli.
The essential oil can be added to an air spray, or vapourised in a burner or diffuser to help stop the spread of infection in a room. Lemon has often been used to help bring down high blood pressure. Squeeze some lemon juice into cool water with a little honey for the person to drink. It will also improve the functioning of the digestive system, helping counteract acidity and makes the stomach more alkaline. Lemon also helps decongest the kidneys and liver and has a cleansing action on the body.
It is great for the circulatory system and helps ease the pressure on varicose veins. Two to five drops, added to a teaspoon of carrier oil such as sweet almond, in a warm bath will be sufficient. Lemon oil is popular for using to remove corns and warts and has a softening effect on scar tissue. Use undiluted directly on the corns or warts or verruca, avoiding getting the oil onto the surrounding healthy skin. Repeat as long as is needed. Lemon oil is a powerfully astringent and may cause irritation if used by sensitive people.
Warning: Do not use lemon oil on the skin in the sunlight as it contains strong photosensitising agents. Always consult a qualified aromatherapist if you’re unsure about using essential oils.
Sources
Aromatherapy an A-Z – Patricia Davis
Directory of Essential Oils – Wanda Sellar
The Fragrant Pharmacy – Valerie Ann Worwood