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Lemons, scientifically known as Citrus × limon, are delightful fruits that grow on small evergreen trees native to Asia. The ellipsoidal yellow fruit of these trees is highly versatile and widely used across the globe, both for culinary and non-culinary purposes. The juice extracted from lemons, renowned for its sour taste, serves as a valuable ingredient in various beverages and dishes, including refreshing lemonade and delectable lemon meringue pie. Furthermore, the pulp and rind, commonly referred to as zest, are prized additions in the realm of cooking and baking.
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Although the precise origin of lemons remains a mystery, it is believed that they first flourished in regions such as Assam in northeast India, northern Burma, or China. Studies exploring the genetic roots of lemons suggest that they are a hybrid fruit, resulting from the crossbreeding of the bitter orange, also known as sour orange, and the citron. This fascinating blend of genetic traits contributes to the unique characteristics and flavors that make lemons such beloved and versatile fruits.
In addition to their culinary uses, lemons have numerous health benefits that are often overlooked. In this blog, we will explore 10+ amazing and surprising health benefits of lemon.
Amazing and Surprising Benefits of Lemon
#1. Energizes You and Enhances Your Mood
Did you know that the energy we derive from food comes from the atoms and molecules present in our food? When we consume food, a reaction occurs between the positive charged ions from the food and the negative charged enzymes in our digestive tract. Lemons are unique in that they contain more negative charged ions, which provide the body with an extra boost of energy when consumed. Furthermore, the scent of lemon has mood-enhancing and energizing properties. Simply the smell of lemon juice can brighten your mood and clear your mind. Additionally, lemon can help reduce feelings of anxiety and depression.
#2. Treats Bad Breath
The acidic nature of lemons, when combined with the medicinal properties of honey and water, can effectively eliminate bad breath. Lemon cleanses the mouth and stimulates the production of saliva, which helps kill odor-causing bacteria. Lemon water also aids in removing the white film that develops on the tongue overnight. This film consists of decaying food particles and bacteria, which are major contributors to bad breath.
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#3. Helps Shed Pounds
If you’re looking to shed a few pounds, regularly sipping on lemon water can be beneficial. Lemons contain pectin, a type of fiber commonly found in fruits, which helps you feel fuller for longer periods. This feeling of satiety reduces the likelihood of overeating throughout the day. Additionally, staying hydrated is essential for weight loss. When you’re even mildly dehydrated, you may experience headaches, fatigue, and a general bad mood. Drinking lemon water helps keep your body hydrated and promotes a happier disposition.
#4. Aids Digestion
Lemon juice has excellent properties for aiding digestion. Its atomic composition is similar to saliva and the hydrochloric acid found in digestive juices. When consumed, lemon juice encourages the liver to produce bile, an acid necessary for digestion. Lemons are also rich in minerals and vitamins, which help loosen toxins in the digestive tract. The digestive qualities of lemon juice can alleviate symptoms of indigestion such as heartburn, belching, and bloating. In fact, the American Cancer Society recommends warm lemon water to cancer patients to stimulate bowel movements.
#5. Rejuvenates Skin and Heals the Body
The antioxidants found in vitamin C, abundant in lemons, play a crucial role in rejuvenating the skin. They combat damage caused by free radicals, keeping your skin looking fresh and vibrant. Sufficient vitamin C intake also helps the body produce collagen, an essential protein for maintaining smooth and youthful-looking skin. In a recent study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, participants who regularly consumed vitamin C exhibited younger-looking skin and fewer wrinkles.
#6. Increases Iron Absorption
Iron deficiency is a common nutrient deficiency and a leading cause of anemia in developed countries. However, pairing iron-rich foods with those high in vitamin C, like lemons, can significantly enhance the body’s ability to absorb iron. For instance, squeezing lemon juice on a salad with iron-rich ingredients such as spinach and chickpeas can maximize iron absorption.
#7. Boosts Your Immune System
Lemons are packed with vitamin C, which is essential for fighting off colds and bolstering the immune system. They are also rich in potassium, a mineral that stimulates brain and nerve function while helping to control blood pressure. Vitamin C, or ascorbic acid, found in lemons has anti-inflammatory effects and is used as complementary support for asthma and respiratory symptoms. Additionally, lemons contain saponins, which possess antimicrobial properties and may help prevent cold and flu symptoms. Lemon consumption also reduces excessive phlegm production in the body.
#8. Treats Cold and Flu
For ages, the combination of honey and lemon has been a popular remedy for colds and flu. Consuming a mixture of 2 teaspoons of lemon juice and honey provides relief from cold and flu symptoms. Vitamin C in lemons boosts the immune system, while honey helps alleviate coughing. Both ingredients possess antiviral properties that can effectively treat nasal congestion.
#9. Hydrates Your Lymph System
Drinking warm water with lemon juice supports the immune system by hydrating and replenishing fluids lost by the body. When the body is deprived of water, it can lead to various side effects such as tiredness, sluggishness, decreased immune function, constipation, low/high blood pressure, lack of energy, sleep disturbances, reduced mental clarity, and increased stress levels.
#10. Alleviates Anxiety
Research has shown that lemon balm, a plant related to lemons, has a calming effect and can help combat fatigue, exhaustion, dizziness, anxiety, nervousness, and tension. Inhaling lemon oil can increase concentration and alertness, making it useful as a room freshener in offices to enhance employee efficiency. If you’re feeling tense, try sprinkling a few drops of lemon balm essential oil (Melissa officinalis) on a handkerchief and inhale its soothing aroma.
#11. Balances pH Levels
Lemons are considered one of the best alkalizing foods due to their citric and ascorbic acid content, which helps maintain optimal pH levels in the body. A balanced pH is essential because excessive acidity in the body can lead to inflammation. Drinking lemon water on an empty stomach in the morning can help regulate overall acidity in the body, including uric acid in the joints, which is a primary cause of pain and inflammation.
#12. Helps Reduce Caffeine Consumption
If you’re looking to cut back on caffeine, you might be surprised to learn that replacing your morning cup of coffee with a cup of hot lemon water can do wonders. Many people who have made this switch report feeling refreshed and no longer experience the afternoon crash associated with caffeine consumption. Moreover, their nerves feel calmer and more relaxed throughout the day.
#13. Treats Corns and Calluses
Lemons can also be beneficial in treating corns and calluses. Applying lemon poultices overnight by placing a slice of lemon approximately 5 mm thick on the affected area and securing it with a bandage can help heal corns and calluses. Additionally, dabbing lemon essential oil directly on the affected area can accelerate the healing process. It is important to use undiluted lemon oil only on callused skin, as it may be too strong for unaffected skin.
Conclusion
In conclusion, lemons are not just a tangy addition to your recipes but also a powerhouse of health benefits. From providing an energy boost to aiding digestion, rejuvenating the skin to strengthening the immune system, lemons offer a wide range of advantages that are often overlooked. Incorporating lemons into your daily routine, such as by drinking warm lemon water in the morning or adding lemon juice to your meals, can greatly contribute to your overall well-being. So, make the most of this incredible fruit and enjoy the many health benefits it has to offer.