Lemon Essential Oil is extracted from lemon peel either by steam distillation or cold pressing. It is applied topically by mixing with carrier oil or can be inhaled through a diffuser. Used in various skin care and aromatherapy products. Being rich in Vitamin C it is photo sensitive and turns red on exposure to light so it has to be stored in an amber colored bottle and away from light in a cool place. It has antibacterial, anti-inflammatory properties , helps with depression, calms mind.
Some of its health benefits are given below:
It may reduce anxiety and depression: It is believed to be an effective calming and mood improving agent. Using lemon scented products to clean house gives uplifted and relaxed mood.
Pain reliever: In aromatherapy it is used to relieve pain.
Eases morning sickness symptoms in pregnant women: inhaling the essential oils showed significant decrease in the symptoms of nausea and vomiting in pregnant women.
Improves mental alertness: Studies have showed that students who attend classes in a class where lemon oil was diffused were found to be more alert and concentrating. Aromatherapy given to Alzheimer’s patients along with other oils showed to increase their cognitive ability.
Antifungal: can be used topically in treatment of fungal infections like athletes’ foot, thrush and yeast infections too.
Benefits for skin: Can be added in skin care products
Exfoliates dead skin: It contains alpha hydroxy acid such as glycolic acid which exfoliates dead skin cells
Promotes skin tone: It reduces hyperpigmentation and evens out skin tone .It contains citric acid and vitamin C which reduces dullness, and brightens skin. Vitamin C also boosts collagen production.
Antioxidant: It helps to deal with sagging of skin, inflammation, skin ageing which are a result of oxidative stress.
Benefits for hair:
Anti fungal and antibacterial properties keep the scalp free of infection.
Citric acid present in lemon oil prevents from loosening of hair follicles and thus prevents hair fall.
Works as tonic for hair and makes it healthier and shinier.
DIY for hair growth:
Slightly warm a mixture of olive oil and castor oil. Add 4-5 drops of lemon essential oil. Massage lightly. Leave for 45 minutes and wash off with a mild shampoo.