The lemon tree may grow up to 16 feet tall and can bear both flowers and fruit at the same time. The lemon's essential coil is obtained from the peel of the fruit. Most of the lemon oil sold commercially originated in either Sicily or California, the principal growing areas for this citrus fruit. Look for lemon oil that has been cold pressed, since it is generally of the highest quality. Approximately 200 pounds of lemon peel - or 1500 lemons are needed to produce a single pound of the essential oil. Lemon oil may be particularly useful for skin and hair care and for the treatment of respiratory tract infections or fatigue. It also has strong antiseptic effects, even when it is inhaled in aromatherapy regimens. Lemon's fragrance blends well with other citrus scents, peppermint oil and eucalyptus oil.
A natural air purifier
8 drops lemon oil
1 drop clove oil
2 drops of thyme oil
1 drop tea-tree oil
Here is a quick and easy method for cleaning and disinfecting stale air in the home. Mix these 4 essential oils together and heat them in a diffuser.
Therapeutic effect
Lemon oil contains such active ingredients as terpenes and citinellal, which have a strong antiseptic and germicidal effect. It is very helpful for treating infections because it activates the immune system and promotes blood and lymph circulation.
Storing the oil
Citrus oil are among the least durable essential oils. Always keep them in a small dark colored bottle in a cool place. Stored correctly, the essential oil will stay fresh for about a year and a half.
Treating viral infections
For colds, flu or other viral infections, take a warm shower and follow it with a gentle whole body treatment before going to bed. Combine 1 cup of sunflower oil and 20-30 drops of lemon oil and rub this mixture evenly over your skin. Wrap yourself up well in towels or blankets and go to bed. During the night, the oil will be absorbed by the skin's pores and will deploy its antiseptic properties.
Battling fatigue
Mix 1-2 drops of lemon oil and peppermint oil in a small bowl. Dip a cold, moist linen cloth into the mixture. Lie down and drape the compress across your forehead and temples. Breathe in through your nose and out through your mouth. Within 30 mins or so, you should begin to feel refreshed and renewed.
Promoting well-being
Every herb can be said to transmit a message to the psyche. Lemon's message is :" I am bringing the sunshine back into your life". Its aromatic fragrance generally clears the mind, banishes gloomy thoughts and helps to lift ones spirits.
Extra Tip : Lemon oil can help dispel fatigue, improve circulation and strengthen the body after a long illness. Mix 3 drops of the essential oil in 1 tsp. of sugar or honey. Take this mixture twice a day.
Used to treat colds, flus and other infections, digestive upset, varicose veins, poor appetite and exhaustion.
Take care : When the skin is exposed to intense sunlight, lemon oil has been known to cause pigment spots. Therefore, do not use lemon essential oil or toiletries containing citrus essential oils or citrus perfumes within 6 hrs of exposure to the sun.
Applications
External Use
Oral hygiene
Place 1-2 drops of lemon oil on your toothbrush before adding the toothpaste. Brush as usual then stir the foam from the unrinsed toothbrush into a glass of water to make a gargle. The oil acts as a disinfectant and will help to brighten your teeth.
Gentle wart removal
Apply 1-2 drops of diluted lemon oil directly to the effected area several times a day for at least 4 weeks. If used regularly, this treatment will help the wart recede and may also prevent future outbreaks.
Hair care
Lemon oil can lighten your hair and give it a healthy sheen. Simply mix 20 drops of the oil into 1 cup of shampoo and then wash your hair as directed. This easy treatment works best for people with light colored hair.
Around the house
A great dishwater
Combine about 10 drops of the oil with 1 oz. of vinegar, and then add the mixture to your dishwater. The lemon vinegar mixture works especially well to cut grease on glasses and dishware while scenting your kitchen with lemon's uplifting aroma. Your nails will be brighter after washing the dishes, too!
