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Citrus Limon or lemon as we know it, commonly used in our gin and tonic, as a side decoration for gourmet food or added to a finger bowl to cleanse your fingers and squeezed over fish to mask the fishy smell, has been used over the centuries for its health benefits, especially for its effectiveness in treating scurvy.

The origins of this little yellow orb are not really known, but thought to have originated in China, India and Northern Burma. Because of its antiseptic properties it was widely used to treat poisons and was said to have been a favoured drink of the Chinese Emperors. Lemons were introduced into Persia, Iraq and Egypt in 700AD and in 1000AD and 1150AD was distributed throughout the Arab world and the Mediterranean. The Muslims used it mainly as a decorative plant. The lemon entered Europe through Italy in the first century and cultivation began in Genoa in the middle of the fifteenth century. In 1493 lemons were introduced to America by Christopher Columbus and in the 1700"s and 1800,s lemons were planted in California and Florida. It is now widely grown around the world.

The components of lemon are vitamin A, vitamin C, and bioflavonoid, and niacin, thiamine in small amounts, potassium and citric acid. The lemon is very acidic to taste, but leaves an alkaline residue in the body. When consuming lemon it should not be taken in its concentrated form on a regular basis as the acid can damage teeth enamel.

The fresh smell of lemon brings about a sense of well being and is added to many commercial products such as deodorizers and air fresheners. Because of its ability to cut through grease it is also added to detergents and washing liquids.

Lemon mixed with warm water first thing in the morning cleanses the mouth and is a great tonic for the liver by increasing the production of bile aiding in the digestion of food. Even though it is acidic by nature lemon mixed with hot water can help treat nausea, heartburn, constipation and diarrhea, as bowels are aided in eliminating waste more efficiently, helps to rid the intestines of worms and is thought to be useful in dissolving gallstones. Lemon and water can also be used to treat stomach ulcers, mixed with water it becomes diluted and is less acidic then stomach acid.

Lemon and water is a great diuretic and helps to flush out toxins and bacteria so it is a good remedy for those who suffer from urinary tract infection, high uric acid, arthritis and rheumatism. It can help in weigh reduction as well.

The antibacterial properties of lemon have been proven to destroy bacteria and can be used to treat malaria, cholera, diphtheria and typhoid. Its high vitamin C content can help prevent many infections, speed wound healing and bring down fever. It can relieve symptoms of asthma, tonsillitis and sore throat. Dinking a glass of lemon and water can relieve hiccups.

Lemon can strengthen blood vessels and prevent internal haemorrhaging and so it is useful in treating high blood pressure. Lemon and water is useful in treating heavy menstruation as well.

Learn more about this author, Teresa Anne Ng.
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