Focus on Lemon (Citrus limon)

Lemon conjures up images of freshness and cleanliness. The oil is expressed from the peel of the lemons. It has a tangy, clean, fresh, light penetrating and bright fragrance which is refreshing and uplifting to the spirit. The aroma stimulates the mind and increases the ability to memorize and it improves intellectual performance. Studies in Japan show that the aroma increases concentration levels remarkably. "They found that typing mistakes were reduced by 54% when lemon oil was disbursed in the room." When vaporized into the air - it purifies the air and kills germs. It is used in some hospitals - as a disinfectant as well as neutralizing unpleasant odours.

Lemon is:
  • antiseptic
  • antirheumatic
  • antispasmodic
  • cephalic
  • astringent
  • bactericidal
  • mental stimulant
  • diuretic
  • hypotensive
  • purifying
  • antifungal
  • insecticide
  • refreshing
  • immune stimulant
  • antiviral
  • reviving
  • strengthening
 Common uses include treating:
  • acne, boils
  • exfoliant
  • oily skin
  • corns, warts
  • cellulite
  • depression
  • confusion
  • obesity
  • fever
  • arthritis
  • hypertension
  • PMS
  • lethargy
  • jet lag
  • mouth ulcers, herpes
  • hair loss
  • asthma
  • nosebleeds
  • poor circulation
  • throat ailments

This oil blends very well with cedar, eucalyptus, fennel, juniper, lavender, tea tree, ylang ylang and pine.

For a Sore Throat
  • 1 drop lemon

In half a glass of warm water.
Mix well and then gargle.

 Immune Booster
  • 10 drops Tea Tree
  • 4 drops eucalyptus
  • 6 drops lemon

This blend is wonderful when you add 8 drops of it to the bath. It can help keep infectious illness at bay when used in a diffuser.

Lemon is considered phototoxic and should not be used (on the skin that will be exposed to the sun) for 6 hours prior to exposure. Lemon oil is generally considered safe during pregnancy.