Appealing in color, aroma and taste, the lemon has been used for its health benefits by indigenous people throughout the world. Lemon usage for health benefits dates as far back as 1747 when James Lind (who proved citrus fruits cure scurvy) added Vitamin C through lemon juice to the diets of seamen suffering from scurvy. Lemons are not only high in nutritional value, but they also have many health benefits both internally and topically.

Lemons are a natural antiseptic. When applied directly on wounds, the citric acid in lemon juice acts as an antiseptic. Pure lemon juice applied to wasp and bee stings can be used to relieve pain. Applied directly to the skin and allowed to dry, lemon juice helps against skin problems such as acne and eczema. The juice has also been used for minimizing or removing of blackheads, freckles and wrinkles. Lemon juice poured onto a cotton ball and gently applied to the nostrils may stop a nose bleed, or when massaged into the gums may stop gum bleeding.

Lemons also have many uses for purifying the body internally. High in Vitamin C, lemons can be used to help prevent and treat many infections, relieve symptoms of sore throat, hasten wound healing, and reduce a high fever. A mixture of one tablespoon each of honey and lemon juice is often used as a home remedy for cold and flu. Although acidic, lemon is effective in curing many digestive problems when mixed with hot water, including nausea, heartburn, and lower intestine disorders. Lemon juice stimulates the liver to produce bile, aiding in food digestion. Also a diuretic, lemon helps to flush out toxins and bad bacteria within the body.

Lemons also provide psychological benefits. Used in aromatherapy, the aroma of lemon can help to relieve stress, clear the mind, relieve anxiety, and lift people's spirits.

Next time you're at a restaurant and your server asks if you want lemon with your tea, be sure to say "Yes" and take advantage of the health benefits nature is providing you.

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