by Brian Lamacraft

Created on: February 13, 2009

Lemons are a member of the citrus fruit family. This tart fruit has many health benefits to the human body. They get their tart flavor from high levels of citric acid found in the fruit.

Nutrition

Lemons contain high levels of vitamin C, dietary fiber, vitamin B6, calcium, and potassium. Vitamin C can help to lower histamines in the body which trigger runny noses, and red itchy eyes.

Fiber in this fruit can help with digestion and ease symptoms of constipation. Lemon juice is very effective at curing many digestion problems. Lemon juice can help to ease a sore throat and can be used to treat the common cold. Lemon juice can kill bacteria when applied to a cut. The juice of a lemon can also help treat many skin conditions such as blackheads, and wrinkles. Fresh lemon juice can help to add shine to hair after it is rinsed. Lemon helps to stimulate the liver and dissolve uric acid and other poisons in the liver. The removal of uric acid can help prevent the painful condition of gout.

Lemons contain antioxidants which help to destroy cancer causing free radicals in the body. The vitamin C in the fruit helps with immune system function in the body.

The vitamin C contained in lemons eliminates the condition known as scurvy. While this condition is not common today, it was common on long sea voyages where vitamin C containing fruits were scarce.

Other Information

Lemons can be traced back to central Asia like many citrus fruits. They may have been first cultivated as many as 2,500 years. They have been grown in Florida since the 16th century and were first introduced to America by Christopher Columbus.

To get the most benefit form the antioxidant protection, consume these fruits when they are fully ripened. Try to buy lemons with thinner skin as they will contain more juice then other lemons. Fresh lemons will keep in the fridge for about four weeks. Lemons can be squeezed and the juice stored in an airtight container. This juice can also be frozen and consumed at another time.

Lemon juice can be squeezed into plain water for a refreshing drink. This will add natural vitamin C to your water. This juice can also be added to many dishes for extra flavor. It makes a great addition to salad dressing or squeezed onto fish. Wash the lemon before cutting into it to remove chemical residues on the skin. The peel can be used in cooking or baking for added flavor. Organic lemons should be used if you are going to use the peel in cooking.

The lemon is just not for lemonade. The juice, pulp, and skin of a lemon contains many nutrients that our bodies need. Try adding this fruit to your daily diet and enjoy the health benefits of this tart yellow fruit.

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