Lemon Oil Lemons are a popular citrus fruit cultivated largely in the Mediterranean, Florida, California and Israel. Lemons have been used in cooking for centuries as they impart a delightful flavor and aroma to most foods. Lemon juice is also a healthy and tasty drink that replenishes and re-hydrates effectively. When we talk of lemon oil we refer to the oil that is extracted from lemon rinds. This is done by the cold press method and the oil that emerges can range from pale yellow to green in color depending on the types of lemons used. The aroma of lemon essential oil is almost intoxicating in its freshness and zesty fragrance. Pure lemon oil can be used for a number of purposes – from mental stimulation to calming an upset stomach. Lemon oil aromatherapy uses this essential oil for its anti-anemic, antiseptic, astringent, diuretic, detoxifying, and sleep inducing properties to name just a few. Pure lemon oil mixes well with other citrus oils and oils such as cypress, juniper, lavender, neroli, rose, sandalwood, tea tree, and mint. Lemon essential oil is non-toxic even in its purest form but might cause skin irritations in some people, so a patch test is recommended before any type of massage or therapy.
Lemon Oil Uses
Most common lemon oil uses include it as a treatment for fevers, insomnia, tiredness, ulcers, gallstones, rheumatism, and anemia. Lemon oil is also excellent for colds, sinusitis, sore throats, stomach infections, for weight loss, and skin conditions such as chilblains and wounds. Pure lemon oil is conducive to calming to mind and relieving stress. Aromatherapy believes that proper usage of lemon oil can aid concentration and improve alertness as well. Using lemon oil as a room freshener in schools and offices has been shown to increase efficiency and build a positive mind-set. No small feat for a simple essential oil! The health benefits of lemon oil are also numerous as it is high in vitamins and can help build immunity and ward of infections. Many therapies uses various forms of lemon oil in the treatment of infectious diseases such as malaria, typhoid and fever as it is said to stimulate the production of white blood cells and further aid in fighting illnesses. In terms of hair and skin care, lemon oil uses are legendary. Lemon oil is an excellent hair tonic that promotes hair growth and shiny hair. It is also used as an anti-dandruff treatment. Dull skin can benefit from lemon oil when used as an astringent. It can rejuvenate dull skin and help treat acne and oily skin. Apart from lemon oil being used in aromatherapy, it is found in perfumes, cosmetics, personal healthcare, and even household cleaning products.
Being edible oil, lemon oil cooking is can be an interesting area to explore. Lemon oil can be used by itself, as a seasoning, in baking or even mixed with other types of oils. Lemons are a welcome addition to any seafood dish, pasta, and salad dressing. It imbues any dish with a zesty flavor and lightness and can also be mixed in water to make it more refreshing.
How To Make Lemon Oil
How to make your own lemon oil is actually quite simple. All you need is a good zester that allows you to remove the yellow outer layer of the lemon rind. Collect this zest (avoiding the white inner part at all costs as this makes the oil bitter) and mix with a cup of olive oil. If you need a more strongly flavored lemon oil, all you need to do is mix more zest into the olive oil. It is best to use an extra virgin olive oil for the best results. Once mixed, keep the oil aside in a well-sealed glass bottle. The longer you keep it, the stronger the oil will be.
This can then be added to any dish or salad as required.
Lemon oil, flavors and extracts are also popular with bakers and chefs as delicious additions to cakes, breads, cookies and pies. Citrus oils can be purchased in varying degrees of purity and should be used sparingly in place of actual peel or zest of a lemon. These add an instant and easy kick to any dish. Other Health benefits of lemon oil: - Stress: Lemon balm oil is known to act as a relaxant, and can help people unwind and relax. It drains out nervous tension, anxiety, dizziness, exhaustion, and fatigue. It can refresh your mind and replace negative thoughts with positive thoughts. It is good for improving focus and concentration.
- Insomnia: Pure lemon oil is good for ensuring sound sleep and can help those suffering from insomnia.
- Immune system: Since this oil is rich in vitamins, it can help to increase the immunity of the body. It also stimulates the white blood cells, which increases the body’s capability of fighting disease. It improves the blood circulation too.
- Fever: Several people use lemon oil to protect themselves from typhoid, malaria and fever.
- Stomach disorders: Because of the carminative properties of lemon oil, it is used to cure stomach problems like cramps, stomach upsets, acidity, and indigestion.
- Skin care: Lemon oil has antiseptic properties that can detoxify toxins from the body. It can also rejuvenate dull skin, treat pimples, and various other skin disorders.
- Hair care: Lemon oil is often used to treat dandruff and for making hair healthy and shiny.
- Tiredness: Felling drained and tired? Use lemon oil to refresh your senses, increase your blood circulation, and remove tiredness.
- Asthma: Some people believe that lemon balm oil can treat asthm.
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