Herbs Guide

Lemon

Family Name: Rutaceae

Botanical Name(s): Citrus Limon

Popular Name(s): Citrus Medica, Citrus Limonum, Citronnier, Neemoo, Leemoo, Limoun, Limone.

Parts Used: Fruits, juice, peel, as well as the essential oil is used.

Habitat: Indigenous to Northern India. Widely cultivated in Mediterranean countries.

Description: It is a small deciduous tree bearing thorns on its stems and twigs with dark oval leaves. Highly scented, pale, purple budded white flowers appear in spring and summer, followed by yellow fruits with a very sour pulp or flesh.

Uses: Lemons positively effects blood circulation and is used to treat varicose veins and hemorrhoids. It is also used for kidney stones, minor fevers and bronchial congestion. The lemon peel has stomachic properties. Lemon is also the main ingredient for lemonade, sorbet ice, salad dressings and marinades. The juice is used in making cheese, and the pectin contained in lemons (specifically the peel and pith) helps to set jams and jellies.