Lemons are the species of a small evergreen tree which come from the flowering plant family called Rutaceae. Lemons are described as having a citrus type scent, which we often associate with cleanliness and hygiene. There are health benefits, beauty benefits as well as household benefits of lemon. For this particular blog post I will focus on the health and beauty benefits. Without delaying any longer, let’s explore eight uses for lemons in your everyday health and beauty regimen.

1. High blood pressure

For those who have high blood pressure, lemon is a natural and easy way to control it. To get into the swing of things, start your day with a glass of hot water into which you squeezed the juice of one lemon. This drink is most effective consumed in the morning an empty stomach, but have it three to four times a day for best results.

2. Mental health

If you are feeling sad or depressed, consider lemon to reduce those feelings. Lemon is one of the rare foods that can lighten your mood and make you feel happier. You might be wondering how this works? As lemon enters the digestive tract, it provides your body with more energy than most food items. It doesn’t end there; the smell of lemon provides energising properties that can help improve your mood.

3. Respiratory problems

Those who suffer from asthma can get many benefits from lemon. Lemon aids with breathing and can improve respiratory disorders over time. The actual vitamin C found in lemon is the magic potion for this particular issue. If you are suffering from a stuffy nose and excessive phlegm, lemon water can also assist.

4. Prevents kidney stones

You might be surprised to learn that lemon water can also help prevent kidney stones. Obviously, this will not help once you already have kidney stones, so it is more of a preventative measure. Consuming water and lemon on a regular basis can increase the production of a chemical in your urine which can prevent the creation of crystals that eventually form kidney stones.

5. Oral hygiene

Lemon has a very fresh, clean scent, which is associated with hygiene and cleanliness. If you have bad breath or odour coming from your mouth, lemon can help you out. If you have a toothache or painful gums, place lemon onto the problem area; remove and rinse with water if you start to feel a burning sensation.

6. Cleanse face

We all know that we need to apply some toothpaste to a pimple  to dry it up. But what can you use to draw the pimple out faster? Lemon is the answer to that question; simply dab some lemon onto the blackhead or pimple to draw them out. You can also use lemon to wash and cleanse your face.

7. Treat dandruff

Have you tried a number of different dandruff shampoos and nothing works? I have been in that situation too. Would you believe that lemon can solve all your problems? Massage two tablespoons of lemon juice into your scalp, then rinse with water. For most effective results, repeat daily.

8. Dry elbows

Dry, scaly elbows can be a real problem, especially in summer when you want to wear T-shirts and expose your arms. Simply combine baking soda and lemon into a paste consistency. Apply the paste onto your elbows and rub it in to remove excess skin. Remove the paste from your elbows with  a mixture of lemon juice and water. Then apply olive oil to retain moisture and keep your elbows smooth. Lastly, dab with a cloth to remove excess oil.

Who knew lemon was such a wonder fruit, the uses of lemons are endless!