About Lemon – A Lip-Smacking Citrus Treat! Wrapped in a texturized peel, this aromatic, oval shaped yellow fruit is one of the most common ingredients used in cooking. A lemon is unlikely to be devoured as a fruity treat in its entirety. However nothing beats the lemon when it comes to their uses as a rich flavoring agent.
Generally believed to be native to South East Asia the exact origins of lemons still remain vague. Cultivation spread to the Mediterranean’s during the first century. Christopher Columbus is to be credited with introducing this juicy fruit to the Americas, when he planted the first lemon trees on the islands of Haiti.
Primarily, lemons can be categorized into two broad genres. Lisbon lemon – originated in Australia and Eureka Lemon – originated in California. These two types of lemons are known as ‘true lemons’. Another common type is the Myer lemon introduced from China in 1908. Although not a true lemon due to its mild acidic properties, the Meyer lemon is used as a common substitute.
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Lemons- Nutritional Information
Lemons are packed with vitamins and nutrients. 100 grams of the fruit (the approximate weight of an average plum,) contains 1.5% energy, 7% carbohydrates, 2% proteins and 7% fiber. Being a citrus fruit, a lemon contains 88% of Vitamin C, 1% of Vitamin A, 1 % of Vitamin E and 3% of Calcium.
Health Benefits Of Lemons
From acne to dandruff, from indigestion to anti-cancer- lemon has proven its credibility and has stood the tests of time.
Good Dose Of Vitamin C!
Good things come in small packages! This little yellow fruit is an excellent source of vitamin C. Vitamin C has several health benefits – including the fact that it is a powerful antioxidant. Indeed, Vitamin C is one of the most potent antioxidants. This means that this tiny fruit is capable of tackling dangerous free radicals. Free radicals are what trigger multiple severe diseases including; several cancers (mouth cancer, throat cancer, colon cancer, stomach cancer and esophagus cancer), stroke, heart disease and more!
Fights Cancer!
Lemons have very strong antioxidant properties which help prevent the deadliest disease known to man: cancer! As mentioned before, this tiny fruit can combat multiple types of cancer and as such, should be in every kitchen!
A Relief To The Common Cold!
Nothing is more wearisome than falling prey to the common cold and all its symptoms – from that runny/stuffy nose to that aching throat! However, no need to run to the medical store – all you need is a lemon. Lemons have the ability to kill bacteria, viruses and infections. Additionally, they also ease most of the symptoms including you blocked nose and that bitter mouth.
Anti Aging!
Remember those nasty Free Radicals that cause multiple diseases? Well, they are also the reason why we age at all! Lemon juice can help fight wrinkles and fine lines by tightening them up.
Mirror Mirror On The Wall, Who’s The Fairest Of Them All?
Snow White probably kept lemons in handy! Lemon Juice makes your skin glow, removes black heads, has antiseptic properties that fights pimples and makes your fairer!
Anti-Dandruff, Pro-Shine!
Squeezing a little bit of lemon juice on your hair before shampooing is known to help remove dandruff in addition to giving your hair that beautiful shine~
Weight Loss
Lemons are incredible for weight loss! Squeeze a little lemon juice into green tea and you have a winning combination! Drinking a warm concoction of lemon juice and honey will also do your weight loss wonders!
Possible Ways To Enjoy Lemons
Lemons are famous for their refreshing, energizing and tasty beverage – lemonade! Undeniably, that is the most popular (and widespread) use of the lemon fruit! An ice cold glass of lemonade with a hint of mint, on a hot sunny day is by far the most heavenly way to beat the scorching heat!
Lemons are also great for seasoning! It has the ability to add flavor to any dish! The health conscious enjoy squeezing lemon juice in salads to give that zingy flavor and that big list of health benefits!!
Lemons may be used for a number of desserts including; lemon cake, lemon pie, lemon cheese cake, lemon tart, lemon sorbet, lemon ricotta pancakes and more!
Lemons are also a great addition in savory dishes! Some famous recipes that use lemons include; lemon pepper chicken, lemon pepper wings and Chinese lemon chicken!
Health Concerns
Excessive use of anything can be a health deterrent, and lemons are no exception to the rule! There are some minor risks associated with disproportionate consumption of lemon juice, including;
- Heart Burn
- Acidity
- Dental Erosion
People who have kidney or gallbladder problems ought to steer clear from lemons as they can cause a buildup of oxalates in your system which may present a number of health problems.