Natural uses for Lemons

he lemon tree is one of the oldest cultivated fruit plants originated from India. Today, lemon trees grow in subtropical climates all over the world, especially in Florida and the Mediterranean. Though the fruit and its juice have a sour taste to it, lemon is actually a fantastic buffer in the body and can reduce hyperacidity in the stomach. Lemon juice and peels have an antiseptic effect and the leaves of the tree are used to reduce fever. In addition, lemons are rich in vitamin C which strengthens the immune system and acting as an antioxant, protects cells from radical damage. Lemons as a therapeutic usage helps anti-inflammatory action. It helps the body cleanse itself by promoting perspiration and acting as a natural diuretic. Lemons also stimulate the appetitie, aids digestion, strengthens body defense system, relieves cramps and also dilates the blood vessels in the skin. Lemons are known for useful remedies for gout, urine retention, athritis, vitamin C deficiency, inflammation of the mouth and throat, hoarseness, digestive disorders, asthma, nervousness, insomnia, heart palpitations and helps the system with diseases of the stomach, liver and intestines. Some uses for lemons: Infusions from lemon leaves; Pour 1 cup of boiling water over 3 tsp. of dried leaves and allow to steep for ten minutes. To reduce fever and relieve cramps, drink up to 2 cups per day. Sweetened with honey, this tea helps coughs and asthma. It is also a cure for insomnia. It promotes relaxation and deep sleep. Drink 1 cup before retiring at night. Lemon Peels; Relief from joint and nerve pains The fragrant volatile oils found in the peel help relax blood vessels and produce an anti-inflammatory effect. Grate the peel from one lemon, being careful to get only the yellow layer and none of the white pith underneath. Rub the grated peel into the affected body part and wrap with a bandage. (cotton prefer) Keep in place for one to two hours. Lemon Juice; Soothing sunburns Using cotton balls gently apply diluted lemon jice to sunburned skin. The juice acts as an astringent, relieving the pain. Lemon Juice; Emergency Disinfectant lemon juice can disinfect minor wounds or lesions in the mouth and throat. (such as cankor sores) Apply diluted juice to affected areas or gargle several times a day. The Lemon and the Juice; Alleviate sore throat and hoarseness Squeeze one lemon and dilute the juice with 1 cup of hot water. Gargle three times a day with the juice. Lemon Juice and Water; Stop a nosebleed Dribble a small amount of diluted lemon juice on a cotton ball and dab it repeatedly onto the nasal mucous membrane. The lemon's astringent effect draws the body tissues together. Pick organic lemons if you can, mostly if you plan to use the peels. They should be bright and firm with a fine grained skin. A very course exterior may indicate a thick skin, which may mean less juicy flesh. Large lemons tend to be thick skinned. Size doesn't mean more juice. A lemon that feels heavy for its smaller size usually means more juice which is what you are aiming for.