Lemon (Citrus x limon) 

General Information

The Lemon Tree belongs to the Rutaceae family, which includes all citrus fruits. Native to Asia, the lemon’s precursor, the citron, was introduced to the Mediterranean by Alexander the Great after his Asian expeditions. The citron was once known as the “Median Apple” and is believed to have been the famous “Golden Apple of the Hesperides” from Greek mythology.

Lemon fruit is handpicked year-round as the tree produces fruit continuously. The essential oil extracted from the fruit peel carries a citrusy, sweet, and refreshing fragrance. The oil yield is typically 4-6 kilograms per 1000 kilograms of fruit, and global lemon oil production is approximately 6.0 to 7.0 million kilograms annually.

Country of Origin

Lemons are originally from India, where the tree is a thorny bush producing the iconic sour citrus fruit. Argentina is a major producer, contributing about 50% of the global lemon oil production. Other significant producers include the USA, Spain, and Italy.

Smelling Break

Now, take a moment to inhale Lemon Essential Oil and reflect on the following:

• How does the fragrance make you feel?

• Which parts of your body does the aroma seem to influence?

• Consider the Doctrine of Signatures: How might lemon’s attributes align with its traditional uses in healing and cleansing?

Botanical & Chemical Profile

• Extraction Method: Cold Pressed

• Plant Parts Used: Fruit Peel

• Botanical Family: Rutaceae

• Botanical Name: Citrus x limon

• Chemotype: —

• Main Constituents:

  • Limonene

  • Gamma-Terpinene

  • β-Pinene

  • Citral

• Aroma: Citrusy, Tangy, Sweet, Lemony, Fresh

• Note: Top

• Color: Pale Yellow to Colorless

• Consistency: Light

Therapeutic Properties

• Antimicrobial: Kills or inhibits the growth of microorganisms.

• Antibacterial: Fights bacterial infections.

• Antifungal: Effective against fungal infections.

• Anti-rheumatic: Alleviates symptoms of rheumatism.

• Astringent: Tightens and tones tissues.

• Antiseptic: Cleanses and prevents infection.

• Antispasmodic: Relieves muscle spasms.

• Antiviral: Fights viral infections.

• Cicatrisant: Promotes wound healing and skin regeneration.

• Carminative: Relieves digestive discomfort.

• Vermifuge: Expels worms and parasites.

• Diuretic: Promotes urination and helps cleanse the body.

• Tonic: Restores balance and vitality.

• Rubefacient: Increases blood circulation to the skin.

• Hypotensive: Helps reduce high blood pressure.

• Insecticidal: Repels or kills insects.

• Antioxidant: Neutralizes free radicals and prevents cell damage.

• Immuno-stimulant: Boosts the immune system.

• Liver Support: Aids in liver detoxification.

• Cooling: Provides a cooling effect, ideal for hot climates.

• Skin Penetrator: Enhances the absorption of oils through the skin.

Main Constituents & Their Actions

• Limonene (Monoterpene, 56%): Offers antibacterial, antifungal, and antioxidant properties.

• Gamma-Terpinene (Monoterpene, 13%): Supports antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects.

• β-Pinene (Monoterpene, 17%): Contributes to the antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory actions.

• Geranial (Aldehyde, 4%): Adds antibacterial and antifungal properties.

• Myrcene (Monoterpene, 2%): Known for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects.

Aromatherapy Applications

• Circulatory System: Enhances circulation and supports detoxification.

• Digestive System: Aids in relieving digestion issues and promotes healthy digestion.

• Lymphatic System: Cleanses and balances, activates white blood cell formation.

• Nervous System: Reduces stress, supports mental clarity, and alleviates depression.

• Mental/Emotional: Uplifting, cleansing, and clarifying; promotes the release of negative emotions and provides cooling effects.

• Musculoskeletal System: Relieves muscular pains, joint pain, and arthritis.

• Skin: Works as an astringent, cleanses greasy skin, helps with abscesses, cuts, boils, and insect bites.

Safety Information

• Avoid During Pregnancy: Do not use during pregnancy.

• Not for Children Under 5 Years Old.

• Avoid Undiluted Use on Skin.

• Keep Away from Mucous Membranes: May cause irritation.

• Phototoxic: Can cause skin reactions when exposed to sunlight or tanning beds.

• May Cause Dermal Irritation or Sensitization: Use with caution.

• Maximum Use Level: 2% for topical applications.

• Avoid Use in the Bath.

Storage Information

• Store in a cool, dry place.

• Shelf life: approximately 4-5 years.

• Keep container tightly closed in a well-ventilated place.

• Protect from oxidizing agents, heat, direct light, and open flame.

References

1. Battaglia, S. (2018). The Complete Guide to Aromatherapy (3rd ed.). Black Pepper Creative Pty Ltd.

2. Arctander, S. (1994). Perfume and Flavor Materials of Natural Origins. Allured Publications.

3. NAHA (source: naha.org)

4. Tisserand, R., & Young, R. (2014). Essential Oil Safety (2nd ed.). Elsevier Books.

5. Albert Vieille (source: albertvieille.com)