With the weather slowly starting to warm up, nothing says refreshing spring day like a burst of lemon flavor. This small
yellow fruit, most commonly known for its citrus- y juice is used as a flavor enhancer in countless culinary dishes and drinks. For such a small fruit, there are a very high number of health benefits that lie under the thick yellow skin.
Packed with vitamin C, lemons are known for their immune boosting properties. They also serve as an excellent source of potassium, which is good for both heart health and brain function. For anyone with digestion problems, lemons will not only aid with healthy digestion, but will relieve some symptoms of heartburn and bloating. These few perks are just a few of the countless ways cooking with lemon will aid our bodies.
This spring, try using lemon for it’s out of the kitchen beneficial properties. You will be surprised at how much more lemons can do than simply make lemonade!
- Help with acne and scars: in addition to using the vitamin C from lemons to kill some of the bacteria known to cause blemishes, try applying lemon juice to infected areas overnight. Lemon juice can reduce oiliness, remove dead skin cells and leave you with a smoother complexion. Lemon juice can also be applied to scars by detoxifying your blood and giving your skin an enhanced glow.
- De–stress, increase concentration and alertness: When lemon is being broken down by the body, the numerous negatively charged ions will interact with the positively charged ones in our digestive tracts, providing us with enhanced energy. Even just the scent of lemon has the power to lift your mood.
- Helps with weight loss: lemons are high in pectin fiber, which helps fight against hunger cravings. Staying full for longer will prevent snacking in-between meals.
- Great for your teeth and mouth sores: lemon water is used in dental hygiene. Using fresh lemon on a toothache can help with the pain, and can reduce bad breath and other gum related problems. The antibacterial properties of lemon can also help speed up the healing process of canker sores.
- Get rid of eczema and other skin irritations: mixing lemon, oil, warm water and honey will ease the itching, irritation and reduce inflammation of the infected area.
- Treat dandruff or add natural lightness to your hair: Adding lemon to your hair can have wonderful effects, but be careful, because lemon can interact with chemically treated hair. Lemon and sun and lighten your hair an give it an extra bounce, and lemon and oil can help get rid of dandruff.
- Use it as a disinfectant: the pH level of lemon acts as a great disinfectant. Try rinsing your cutting board with lemon juice and baking soda, or cleaning your microwave with lemon juice and warm water for an easy clean up.
So next time you buy some lemons to make your favourite salad dressing, grab a few extra and enjoy all of their health properties.
