Using Lemon Essential Oil for Skin Care

Used in hair and skin treatments, Lemon Essential Oil cleans greasy skin and hair, assists in clearing up acne as well as removing dead skin cells.

Lemon Essential Oil Origin

The exact origin of the lemon has remained a mystery, though it is widely presumed that lemons are widely grown in both India and China. In South East Asia it was known for its antiseptic properties and was used as an antidote for various poisons.

Lemons entered Europe during the time of Ancient Rome but were not widely cultivated until the middle of the fifteenth century in Genoa. It was later introduced to the Americas in 1493 by Christopher Columbus and was increasingly planted in Florida and California when lemons began to be used in cooking and flavouring.

Extracting Lemon Oil

Lemon essential oil is extracted from the Citrus limonum. The high temperatures needed for steam distillation would destroy the subtle, fresh aroma of lemon oil, which is better preserved by cold-pressing the fresh peel. Cold-pressing will yield six to seven pounds of oil from one ton of fresh fruit. It has a sharp, fresh smell, is pale greenish-yellow in colour and is watery in viscosity.

Medicinal Uses of Lemon Essential Oil

Used in creams or lotions, Lemon Oil helps clear congested skin. The astringent properties are great for oily skin conditions and the antiseptic effect of lemon oil helps to treat any cuts, boils and minor wounds.

In vapour therapy, lemon oil can be used for colds, flu, depression, stress, lack of energy and fatigue. It also relieves irritation and helps improve concentration, lifts the spirits, clears the mind and helps in decision making.