The lemon - a citrus fruit is one of those super foods with a myriad health and cosmetic benefits. There are very few persons for whom it is an allergen, so make sure you are not allergic to this natural product, before you start enjoying the many benefits. You can squeeze lemon juice on different vegetable and fruit salads and various preparations like pav bhaji, paneer gravies, bhindi fry, baingan bharta etc.
1. Anti-bacterial
Results of a study suggest that citrus fruit juices of Lemon and lime are effective in preventing infection and thus have anti-bacterial activity (1). Lemon juice used for marinating seafood or meat kills bacteria and other organisms present in them, thereby preventing many gastro-intestinal tract infections.
2. Builds Immunity
Lemon is a very good source of Vitamin C and thus helps in the production of White Blood Cells and antibodies in the blood which attacks invading microorganisms, prevents infection and builds immunity. Therefore, Lemon juice is given to prevent common cold.
3. Anti-oxidant
Lemon contains antioxidants like Vitamin C and limonene which deactivates the free radicals, thus preventing many dangerous diseases like stroke, cardiovascular diseases and cancers.
4. Healthy Hair
Lemon juice acts as a natural hair lightener and prevents the risk of chemical allergic reactions that usually occur with hair dyes. It is an excellent treatment for dandruff and greasy hair.
5. Radiant Skin
Lemon juice acts as a skin bleach which reduces the pigment melanin and bleaches. Lemon juice is said to give a natural glow to the skin. Lemon juice soothes the dry skin when applied with a little glycerin.
6. Aids Digestion
A few drops of lemon juice in hot water are believed to clear the digestive system and purify the liver as well.
7. Oral Health
Lemon juice can also be used as a mouthwash. It removes plaque, whitens the teeth and strengthens the enamel. Lemon juice is given to relieve gingivitis, stomatitis, and inflammation of the tongue, due to the Vitamin C content in it.
8. Enhances Iron Absorption
The ascorbic acid in lemon juice helps in absorption of iron from the food. So if you’re iron deficient or have anemia squeeze a lemon on iron rich recipes like Palak Paneer and Chana Dal and Cabbage Tikki for enhancing iron absorption.
9. Protective against Bladder Stones
A study conducted on rat models showed that Lemon juice has protective action against stone formation in the urinary bladder (2).
10. Blood Pressure Lowering Effects
Lemon has flavonoid Limonin which lowers blood pressure and increases the levels of HDL (good cholesterol) (3).
11. Reduces Cholesterol
Lemon contains vitamin C which is involved in conversion of cholesterol to bile, thereby reducing the cholesterol levels (4). Lemon juice with a pinch of salt (warm) every morning will help in reducing cholesterol levels and brings down your weight.
12. Anti-inflammatory
The flavonoid limonene found in lemons have anti-inflammatory properties and may help in inflammatory conditions like allergy, celiac disease, inflammatory bowel disease, osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis (5).
13. Analgesic
The compound limonin found in citrus fruits such as lime and lemon have been studied for their analgesic properties. A recent study on limonin stated that they had a better analgesic effect than aspirin (6). Lemon juice is applied to the sites of bites and stings of certain insects to relieve its pain. Lemon juice relieves colic pain and gastric problems.
14. Cancer Preventive
Lemon is found to be preventive against certain cancers such as cancers of digestive tract and upper respiratory tract (7) (8). Lemon juice prevents faulty metabolism in the cell, which can predispose a cell to become carcinogenic. Also blocks the formation of carcinogenic nitrosamines in the gut.
Have a Lemony Affair with Food!
The humble lemon is a beautiful ingredient that can be used for pickling, candying, seasoning and many more varieties of other uses. Lemon Green Beans is a zesty dish to enjoy due to its awesome flavour and goodness of lemons.
Give a boost of antioxidants to your body with this Lemony Papaya Infused Water, it is simple to make and great for detoxification of the body. Lemony Lettuce Drink is a unique drink with an unusual combination of fruits and vegetables, sip on it to revive yourself.
Love ice-creams? Love lemon flavour? Well, we have a Lemon Ice-Cream recipe which uses lemon as an ingredient, this recipe does not require cooking and is a simple one. Lemon Pickle is one recipe that is liked by one and all. Lemon Honey Water is great to be used as a home remedy for sore throat.
Happy Cooking!!!