Content
The properties and uses of lemon essential oil require more detailed study. The product is beneficial in the treatment of diseases and in personal care, but it must be handled with care.
How is lemon oil obtained
The raw materials for the preparation of lemon ether are the zest and rind of citrus fruit. Oil is extracted from it in two ways:
- distillation - the raw material is treated with hot steam, as a result of which light ethers are released, condensing in a special tank;
- cold pressing - the zest is subjected to mechanical stress at a temperature not exceeding 45 ° C.
The extract from lemon peel, obtained by pressing, retains more nutrients and is therefore appreciated higher.
The composition and benefits of lemon essential oil
The concentrated product contains many useful components. Among them:
- vitamins B1, B2, B6, B9 and B12;
- ascorbic acid in large volumes;
- vitamins A, E and PP;
- D-limonene;
- pinen;
- monoterpenes and alcohols;
- etheric components.
The benefits of lemon oil can be obtained both internally and externally. In particular, the product:
- has pronounced antibacterial properties and helps in the treatment of tuberculosis;
- has a beneficial effect on flu and colds;
- contains a large amount of antioxidants and helps to prolong youth;
- strengthens the vascular system and heart;
- helps to improve bowel function and relieve constipation;
- removes parasites;
- has a calming and relaxing effect on the nervous system;
- helps to cope with migraines and dizziness.
Lemon oil is actively used in professional and home cosmetology - the product improves skin condition and relieves irritation. There is a household sphere of using ether, with its help they scent rooms, and also fight harmful insects.
The use of lemon oil in traditional medicine
Lemon ester is a popular home remedy recipe. It is mainly used externally, but in some cases the internal use of the product is also allowed.
For colds and flu
For any viral and bacterial infections, home medicine recommends using lemon for treatment. Not only fresh fruit is suitable, but also ether, it is no less effective. For acute respiratory viral infections and influenza, it is useful to do inhalations with lemon oil; boil water in a large saucepan, and then add 3 drops of ether to it and breathe in the steam for several minutes.
You can also use the properties of lemon essential oil in aromatherapy.The agent is added to a special lamp, only 5 drops of squeeze are enough, so that after 15 minutes the air in a small room is filled with a pleasant lemon scent. The beneficial ester kills bacteria, so recovery from a cold is faster.
For muscle pain and varicose veins
Lemon oil has warming and pain relieving properties. With varicose veins, as well as pain in the muscles, you can take baths with the addition of ether - only 5 drops of the agent are added to the full container. You need to continue the procedure for 15 minutes, the water should not be too hot, not higher than 38 ° C.
Massage with lemon ether helps to relieve muscle pain and varicose veins. The product must be diluted in any base, such as peach or olive oil, approximately 2 drops per large spoon. Problem areas are gently rubbed for 7 minutes, while lemon ether accelerates blood circulation and improves the tone of blood vessels and skin.
With hypertension
Lemon oil strengthens the walls of blood vessels and stimulates blood flow. It is useful for high blood pressure, relieves vascular spasms and quickly restores good health.
Ether is used as follows - twice a day, add only 1 drop of a useful agent to a cup of tea. After a short time, the blood pressure levels off.
With weakened immunity
Weak immunity leads not only to constant colds, but also to a general decrease in vitality. Lemon oil can help when consumed internally with fresh citrus juice.
Add 1-2 drops of ether to a glass of drink and mix, it is best to dilute the juice with water, otherwise the product will turn out to be too concentrated. Take a tonic once a day in the morning.
For arthritis and rheumatism
The active substances in lemon oil penetrate the tissues through the skin when applied externally. Ether can be used for joint ailments, it accelerates blood flow, relieves inflammation and improves mobility. Rubbing gives a good effect, you can also take relaxing baths with lemon oil, add up to 7 drops to a full container.
With periodontal disease
The product has strong antibacterial and cleansing properties. Lemon oil can be used to treat the oral cavity, it helps with periodontal disease, and at the same time whitens teeth and freshens breath.
To deal with bleeding gums and other discomfort, add 2 drops of ether to a spoonful of regular olive oil. A cotton pad is dipped into the mixture, and then it is applied to the gum for 15-20 minutes. A small compress will quickly relieve pain and promote healing of mucous membranes.
How to use lemon essential oil in cosmetology
The cleansing and nourishing properties of ester make it highly desirable for skin and hair care. On the basis of the oil, masks and lotions, balms for curls and massage mixtures for cellulite are created.
Lemon oil for face
Because ester has strong anti-inflammatory properties, it is often used to combat acne and oily skin. The oil also helps against wrinkles, it tightens the epidermis.
Mask for oily skin
With increased production of subcutaneous fat and frequent acne, you can use the following mask:
- add 2 drops of lemon ether to 15 ml of any light face cream;
- add the same amount of tea tree oil;
- mix well and spread over the face.
You need to keep the mask for 10 minutes, then remove it with warm water or a natural tonic.
Anti-wrinkle mask
To restore skin elasticity and eliminate the first wrinkles, you can make a nourishing mask:
- take 1 large spoonful of almond oil;
- add 2 drops of lemon ether;
- apply on washed face and neck for 15 minutes.
To achieve a quick result, repeat the procedure at least three times a week.
Lemon oil for body skin
The properties of lemon essential oil for skin are used not only for facial care. You can treat the whole body with the product - ether helps to reduce cellulite and slightly tightens the contours of the figure.
To take care of the body, oil is used in two ways:
- take aromatic baths - add sea salt and 7 drops of lemon ether to hot water, during water procedures you can actively knead those places where there is cellulite;
- do a massage, in this case, the product is mixed with any base and rubbed into the skin of the body for 7-10 minutes.
It is best to apply the lemon remedy every other day, otherwise it may not be beneficial.
Lemon oil for hair
It makes sense to use lemon ether to speed up hair growth and add volume. The active ingredients in the product awaken dormant follicles and also protect the curls from damage.
Anti hair loss mask
To strengthen the curls and stop the loss of strands, you can make the following mask:
- slightly warm 1 large spoonful of olive oil;
- add a couple of drops of lemon ether;
- mix and rub into the scalp, and wrap with foil on top.
You need to keep the mixture for 20-40 minutes, after the expiration of the period, the hair is washed with shampoo. You need to apply the product twice a week.
Balm for hair shine
To add volume and shine to your curls, you can:
- brew chamomile tea and wait until it cools slightly;
- add 3 drops of lemon remedy;
- rinse hair with balm after regular washing.
Repeat the procedure twice a week.
Lemon oil for nails
Lemon ether is used to treat fungus and to strengthen the nail plate. The recipe looks very simple - you need to rub essential oil into your fingertips every morning and evening.
You can also use mini hand baths. Warm water of about 38 ° C is poured into a small bowl and 6 drops of lemon remedy are added. You need to dip your fingers into the liquid and hold for about 10 minutes, as a result, the nails will strengthen and acquire shine, and the cuticle will become softer.
How to use lemon oil in cooking
Lemon ether has a fairly high concentration of active ingredients. Therefore, it cannot be consumed internally in the same way as vegetable oil - this will lead to burns of the mucous membranes. Nevertheless, it is possible to add the agent to food if the minimum dosages are observed.
Lemon zest is added:
- in sauces and side dishes, just 1 drop per 2 large spoons of the product;
- in black and green tea, you can drop ether into the finished drink, or you can grease the infused jar with a lemon remedy from the inside and keep it closed for about a week;
- in biscuits, cakes and muffins - 1 drop of ether in the dough will soften the baked goods and give them a wonderful citrus aroma.
The harm of lemon oil and contraindications
For all its beneficial properties, lemon ether requires great care. First of all, it is a strong allergen. Before the first use, be sure to test the product - apply a couple of drops to a sensitive area of the skin and wait 2-3 hours.
It is necessary to refuse to use lemon oil in external ways:
- while undergoing chemotherapy;
- before going out into the bright sun;
- during pregnancy and lactation.
It is also impossible to consume ether internally when carrying a child and during treatment for oncology. It is prohibited to add oil to food and drinks in case of acute digestive ailments, kidney and liver diseases.
Conclusion
The properties and uses of lemon essential oil can be of great benefit. It is mainly used for aromatherapy and external procedures, but in microscopic dosages it can even be added to food, juices and tea.
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