Lemon Essential Oil

Rutaceae.

Lemon trees are found and cultivated the world over. Originally native to Asia and India, they also grow wild in Mediterranean countries including Spain and Italy. 

The Lemon tree is a small evergreen which produces fruits in the summer months although in warmer climates they can produce fruit all year round. The fruits take between 6-8 months to ripen. Once the skin is tight on the fruit it’s ready for harvesting, although sometimes they are picked before this time and allowed to fully ripen during storage and transport.

The essential oil is cold pressed from the peel of the fruit. 

Antiseptic, antiviral, detoxifying, depurative, diuretic, fungicidal, haemostatic, hypotensive, stimulant, tonic & uplifting.

A refreshing and uplifting oil, Lemon is often used in blends for burning or vaporising to stimulate the mind and encourage clarity of thought. Its antiseptic properties also mean it's used to protect against colds and flu. It's also thought to stimulate the immune system. 

It is included in massage blends (in low concentrations) for the skin where it can be useful for treating boils, warts and acne. It can also benefit the circulatory system, varicose veins and may help to lower overly high blood pressure. 

Lemon is commonly found in many commercially available creams, lotions, perfumes, toothpastes and ointments. 

In massage it should always be diluted to no more than 5% before skin application. Lemon is another oil that is good to add to your existing skin care or beauty products. Start with 1 drop, mix well and add more if you feel necessary. 

In common with many citrus and other essential oils Lemon is a great oil to use around the house too. Try adding 10-15 drops to a spray bottle filled with water and a couple of drops of natural soap for a great general purpose household cleaner. Alternatively add 4 drops Lemon & Lavender, 3 drops of Eucalyptus and a couple drops of Rosemary to a spray bottle filled with water. Shake well before each use and you will find this makes a great, natural cleaner for tops and surfaces.

Always perform a patch test on an out of sight corner to ensure the surface you're cleaning will not be adversely affected by the oils (you should do this with commercially available cleaners too). 

Another household use for Lemon is as a natural stain remover on clothes and furniture. Simply add a drop or two to the affected area, allow to rest for a while then wash as normal. Always check that the material you are using the oil on is suitable by dabbing a small amount on an unobtrusive corner of the item in question. 

Organic version also available.

You may find that Lemon blends particularly well with Lavender, Rose, Sandalwood, Benzoin, Eucalyptus, Geranium, Fennel, Juniper & Neroli.