What are lemons good for?

Few fruits combine so many benefits, and not only for health, like lemon, and not only for the richness of vitamin C it contains, but also for the antioxidants and the minerals that compose it. Lemon thus naturally improves the immune defense against viruses and bacteria and helps prevent the flu; it stimulates the production of white blood cells; it promotes digestion; has an antioxidant effect throughout the body. And, outside of the food uses we make of it, Lemon is also a perfect natural detergent, valuable for all household cleaning tasks. 

Properties and benefits

The benefits of lemon are mainly given by Vitamin C, known for its antioxidant properties and to promote our immunitary defenseIts intake also increases the body's alkaline reserve, keeping us fit and helping slow the aging process, combating arthritis and rheumatism. Let's look in detail at the five health benefits of lemon:

• Anti-inflammatory: for inflamed gums, an effective remedy is to keep lemon juice in your mouth for a long time due to its antiseptic and healing properties.
• Natural eye drops: for irritated eyes, just a few drops of lemon juice diluted in boiled water are enough and dabbed using a soaked cotton ball.
• Natural remedy for gastritisTo neutralize gastric hyperacidity, the ideal solution is a good herbal tea with the juice of half a lemon.
• Natural disinfectant and detergent: to remedy hygiene deficiencies while traveling or in emergency situations, lemon juice is used for its antibacterial and antiseptic properties.
• Natural cosmeticTo tone your face, apply a mask twice a week for ten minutes, mixing equal parts lemon juice and finely chopped pulp, plain yogurt, and two teaspoons of honey. This will create a natural cosmetic for purifying your face. Lemon is also useful against acne. chapped hands.
• Lower uric acid levels, preventing gout and hyperuricemia.
• debug the body and purifies the blood.
• Counteract the formation of atherosclerotic plaques that obstruct good blood circulation.

Nutritional values

100 grams of lemon contain:

• 0,6 grams of protein
• 1,9 grams of fiber
• 3,8 grams of carbohydrates
• 140 milligrams of Potassium
• 50 milligrams of vitamin C
• 14 milligrams of calcium
• 11 milligrams of phosphorus
• 0,1 milligrams of Iron

Benefits for the brain and memory

According to a recent study published in theEuropean Journal of Nutrition, a correct intake of vitamin C (the daily requirement is guaranteed by two lemons a day) ensures greater mental vivacity and better functioning of the nervous system. From this, the conclusion is that lemon also promotes the memory , concentration.

Is lemon peel useful?

Lemon zest is very useful, and not just for culinary purposes, such as seasoning fish, vegetables, and salads, thus reducing the use of salt. The zest contains fiber, calcium and limonene: all substances useful for our body. While the internal part, what we call the lemon bread, is recommended for keep it low cholesterol "bad".

When should you drink lemon?

Lemon should be drunk freshly cut and squeezed. It is a thermolabile product, and therefore Vitamin C which contains is easily destroyed in contact with the airIf we squeeze it and wait, we run the risk of compromising its properties.

Lemon to prevent calluses on the feet

• Take a slice of lemon about half a centimeter thick and secure it with gauze.
• Apply to the affected area for a few minutes and for a few consecutive nights

Controindicazioni

Lemon has no particular contraindications. However, it should be remembered that it should be used with caution from those who suffer from gastritis e gastroesophageal reflux, as it may cause heartburn and mucous membrane irritation. Avoid adding sugar to lemon juice, which promotes the formation of hydrochloric acid (the cause of acidity). Regarding dental health, if left untreated, lemon juice can damage enamel due to the abrasive action of the citric acid.

Read also:

• How to grow lemons in pots and even indoors
• All the uses of lemon leaves
• Lemon Recipes: The Easiest and Quickest
• How to store lemons so you can have them all year round