Lemon

Latin Name
Citrus limon

Herb Class/Action
• Digestive stimulant
• Antioxidant
• Astringent
• Alkalizing (internally)
• Immune-supportive

Parts Used
Fruit peel, juice, and essential oil (cold-pressed from peel)

Flavors
Sour, citrusy, slightly sweet

Energetics
Cooling, drying, cleansing

Traditional Benefits
Used since ancient times in Ayurvedic, Mediterranean, and Persian medicine, lemon has long been cherished as a digestive, detoxifying, and refreshing tonic. Traditionally, lemon juice and peel were used to cleanse the liver, cool inflammation, and prevent scurvy—thanks to its high vitamin C content and vibrant energetics.

A Natural Allergy Ally
Lemon’s rich flavonoid content (especially in the peel) helps stabilize histamine response, reduce mucus production, and strengthen capillaries. It also helps detoxify the liver, improving how the body handles allergens.

A Herb for Seasonal Support
Best used in spring or allergy season, lemon clears sluggish lymph, thins mucus, and refreshes digestion. Its astringent, uplifting energy brings clarity and vitality after periods of stagnation or overindulgence.

How It Works
Lemon peel contains limonene, citral, and bioflavonoids that fight free radicals, support liver enzymes, and reduce inflammation. Lemon juice, though acidic in taste, alkalizes the body internally and stimulates bile and digestive enzymes. Its high vitamin C content supports immune defenses, skin health, and collagen production.

Best Ways to Use It
Tinctures/Extracts: Lemon peel tinctures or glycerites are used for digestion and gentle detox.
Herbal teas: Fresh lemon juice or dried peel can be added to tea for brightness and immune support.
Topical applications: Lemon oil (always diluted) is used in skincare for brightening and toning. Avoid sun exposure after topical use due to photosensitivity.

Fun Fact
Lemon trees bloom and fruit year-round in warm climates, producing fruit that was once so prized it was traded as currency among ancient Mediterranean cultures.

A Herb for Modern Use
Lemon remains one of the most versatile modern wellness tools—used for digestion, detox, immune support, skin brightening, and emotional uplift. Whether squeezed in water, diffused in the air, or applied in natural skincare, it’s a zesty staple for vibrant health.