Lemons health benefits are not known by many people. As is true of so many natural sources of good health, the ancients knew and used lemons for many health reasons. And we should do the same.
Lemons contain large amounts of Vitamin C that boosts the immune system and bioflavinoids that attack free radicals and keep them from harming blood vessels and causing inflammation. A strong immune system and less inflammation helps our bodies fight the devastating effects of the stress that is so prevalent in our society today.
Adrenal fatigue is the result of continuing stress that our bodies no longer can handle adequately. Lemons’ health benefits directly address the symptoms that flare up when this happens. When adrenal fatigue sets in, the immune system doesn’t work as effectively, allowing inflammation to build up in body systems, resulting in the debilitating symptoms of stress. Using lemons in various ways can significantly boost the immune system and decrease inflammation. This would then reverse the effects of stress on the body.
Traditional medicine wouldn’t consider using lemons as a way to fight the effects of stress. Rather, it treats individual symptoms and systems, resulting in ineffective treatment and increasing stress. But the NeuroEndoMetabolic (NEM) model looks at stress responses from a systems viewpoint, including metabolic considerations and dealing with inflammation while boosting the immune system. Viewing the stress response from this viewpoint allows consideration of all possible natural ways of handling stress and the negative effects on the body.
As acidic as they are, lemons are actually alkalizing in the body and help restore pH balance. When mixed with warm water or tea in the morning, lemon can help support and stimulate the liver. Even stimulating the bowels is among lemons health benefits. Also taken in concentrated form or as part of the diet, it can also dissolve kidney stones, gallstones, and calcium deposits. Lemons have been used as a remedy for intestinal parasites. And these are only a few of lemons health benefits.
As is the case with any other citrus fruit, Lemons are an excellent source of cold and flu-busting vitamin C. Lemon juice benefits can also help when you feel a cold coming on; add the juice of a lemon and a bit of honey to a cup of hot water and drink every couple of hours until symptoms subside. The lemon will help fight the virus, while the honey will help soothe your throat.
Endurance athletes love lemons for fighting fatigue and thirst, and to help them cope with reduced oxygen supply, such as when mountain climbing. Lemon is more effective at quenching thirst than even water. Travellers frequently drink lemon juice to protect against tropical and waterborne illnesses. Studies have found lemon juice can kill the bacteria that cause such serious and fatal diseases such as malaria, diphtheria, cholera, and typhoid.
The antiviral action of lemon can help speed healing of canker sores when added to warm water and used as a rinse three times a day. Lemons can also help soften corns and calluses when applied overnight. Lemon essential oil is also good, but caution should be used, as the oil can be too harsh for healthy skin. A poultice made from a few drops of lemon essential oil, a spoonful of honey, and a cup of warm water can be used as a poultice to treat eczema. Apply to the affected area for 15-20 minutes 2-3 times a day.
Lemons contain phytonutrients that can promote brain health, bioflavonoids that strengthen blood vessels and reduce high blood pressure, and a range of anti-cancer compounds that can slow, or even stop, the growth of tumors.
Lemon is especially good for your brain. The peel contains tangeretin, a phytonutrient that has been shown beneficial to those suffering from Parkinson’s and certain other brain diseases. For those not suffering from degenerative brain conditions, smelling lemon can help improve focus and alertness, while lemon balm can help ease anxiety and tension. When taken in a supplement with valerian, chamomile, and other calming herbs, it can be an effective treatment for insomnia.
One good way to increase the benefit of lemons in your diet is to use them in a salad dressing. Following is one good recipe for a dressing.
Add all ingredients to glass jar with lid, close lid tightly and shake a few times.
