Lemons – Health Benefits and Oils
In spite of the tartness of this citrus fruit, lemons have gained a bad rap and a negative name as well. If you’ve bought a car that turned out to be a clunker, you’ve probably called it a “lemon”. And, of course, we all know the saying “If life throws you a lemon, then make lemonade”….
Speaking of lemonade….Due to a killer
freeze affecting lemon cultivation in both California and Florida in the late 1800’s, commercial production in Florida ceased, but planting resumed in the early 1950’s where a new market for frozen lemon concentrate emerged and became popular. The tangy, invigorating and refreshing frozen juice turned into lemonade that was easy for consumers to mix with water and sugar and enjoy on those hot summer afternoons.
HEALTH BENEFITS
As with most citrus fruits, lemons have the powerful antioxidant properties of 
Vitamin C but other health benefits are their strong antibacterial, antiviral, and immune-boosting powers/abilities. A cup of lemon juice only has 61 calories, and that may sound too much, but realize that there are 48 teaspoons in a cup, so each teaspoon of lemon juice only has 1.3 calories, and if you just squeeze a little, the calories are practically nil. One lemon is by itself only has 12 grams of carbohydrates, a hint of sugar, and 1 gram of protein, besides also being rich in Vitamin A, calcium, and iron.
When you’ve had a cold or sore throat, including a fever, you may have tried a cup of warm water with lemon juice and honey for soothing your irritated throat.
Long distance walkers find lemons to help in several ways—as refreshment, an extra boost of Vitamin C for energy lessening fatigue, and as protection against infection.
Lemons are used in a variety of ways, but again we want to caution those with any citrus allergies or others who may have heartburn, kidney or gall bladder problems—please consult your doctor before embarking on using any lemon-related remedies or drinking lemon juice.
LEMON BALMS / OILS
Lemon balm also has a calming effect, aiding in helping to 
remove exhaustion, dizziness, anxiety, tension, etc. Many times offices will use a lemon-scented or lemon-balm room freshener which some have found increases the efficiency of employees. Even sprinkling a few drops of lemon balm essential oil on a handkerchief and inhaling can help ease stress and tension which researchers at Ohio State University confirmed through their studies. Lemon aromatherapy can be an aid in enhancing a persons’ mood.
Lemons good for your health, and can also be enjoyed in many other ways so I hope you’ll incorporate more of them into your lifestyle.
