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Lemon: Uses, Benefits, Side effects By Dr. Smita Barode

Introduction: 

“When life gives you lemons, make lemonade” is a famous proverbial phrase that tells us to look at the bright side and keep moving forward in life. Just like the saying, lemons or Citrus limon are bright yellow, oval-shaped edible fruits with a pronounced bulge on one end. Lemons are available in different sizes, with the raw ones being green in colour and the ripe ones turning a beautiful bright yellow. Lemons are native to the Himalayan foothills of Thailand, Indonesia, the Philippines and North India. In India, they are the third largest crop after bananas and mangoes and thus, they have become an economically important crop.  

This flavoured fruit has a juicy yellow flesh that is sour in taste. Their tartness and citric fragrance make them a kitchen favourite. James Lind, the pioneer of clinical research, carried out the very first clinical trial in history with lemons as his focus. The findings of this trial supported the use of lemons for treating scurvy. Let’s find out more about this lovely fruit!1,2 

Nutritional Value of lemons: 

Lemons are packed with the goodness of minerals and vitamins, especially Vitamin C and polyphenols like polymethoxyflavones. The nutritional components of lemons are mentioned in the table below.  

Nutritional components Value per 100 g 
Total carbohydrates  6.9 g 
Protein 0.4 g 
Fibre 0.3 g 
Fat 0.2 g 
Potassium 120 mg 
Calcium 25.9 mg  
Phosphorus  21.8 mg 
Magnesium 9.86 mg 
Selenium 2.77 mg 
Sodium 1.86 mg 
Iron 0.31 mg 

Table 1: Nutritional value of lemons3,4 

Properties of Lemons: 

Scientifically proven properties of C.limon include: 

Potential Uses of lemons for Overall Health: 

Some of the potential benefits of lemons are described below. 

Potential uses of lemons in obesity 

Plant constituents like polyphenols may help manage obesity. Fukuchi et al. conducted a study in 2008 to assess the effect of lemon polyphenols on obesity in white mice. Polyphenols in lemons might be responsible for suppressing fat accumulation and weight gain in the body. This indicates that the consumption of lemon may help in managing obesity. However, scientific evidence supporting this claim is limited, and this warrants the need for conducting further research.6 

Potential uses of lemons in cancer  

Cancer is the leading cause of death, and literature reviews have shown a clear positive relationship between dietary polyphenols (which are strong antioxidants) and cancer. Al-Ataby conducted a study in 2022 to assess the effect of lemon and ginger administration on breast cancer tumour growth in mouse models. The findings of this study support that 50% of mice consuming the lemon-ginger combination did not develop tumours due to the presence of alpha-pinene and alpha-terpineol. This indicates that the consumption of lemon may show anti-cancer properties. However, we need more studies to support these claims.7 

Potential uses of lemons for blood pressure  

Along with antihypertensive medications, herbs and CAM (complementary and alternative medicines) have increased to manage hypertension. A literature review conducted by Zuhal et al. in 2012 suggests that lemon juice may help reduce systolic blood pressure. Tezel et al. conducted a study in 2003 in turkey to assess the therapeutic potential of lemon juice on blood pressure maintenance. The findings of this study support the use of lemon juice as an alternative therapy for decreasing blood pressure. This indicates that consuming lemon juice may help manage blood pressure. However, scientific evidence supporting these claims is limited, and this warrants the need for more clinical studies to support these claims.8 

Potential uses of lemons for asthma 

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the airways known to impair normal breathing. The use of natural products as a complementary or alternative treatment for asthma has increased. For almost 5000 years, the use of plant-based products as traditional medicine for the treatment of asthma has been reported. Costa et al. conducted a study in 2010 to identify plant-based natural products for managing asthma. This study identified lemon as a potent anti-asthmatic agent. Additionally, lemons may help reduce cough (anti-tussive property). This indicates that lemons may have the potential to manage asthma and may provide symptomatic relief, but we need more scientific evidence to support these claims.3,9 

Potential uses of lemons in scurvy 

Scurvy is a disease caused by a deficiency of Vitamin C and is characterised by generalised weakness, bleeding and bruising gums, etc. Dr. James Lind was the first physician to conduct a controlled clinical trial in 1796. Due to the high mortality from scurvy amongst the sailors, he planned a comparative trial to assess the effect of citrus fruits like lemons and oranges on scurvy. To his surprise, Lind found that citrus fruits (lemons and oranges) were better than other treatments for scurvy. Additionally, Vitamin C is required to form collagen, which plays an important role in stopping bleeding. Therefore, lemons may help in healing wounds. This indicates that lemons, a rich source of Vitamin C, may help manage scurvy. However, more studies should be conducted to increase the reliability of these results.10,11 

Other potential uses of lemons:11 

Though there are studies that show the benefits of Lemons in various conditions, these are insufficient, and there is a need for further studies to establish the true extent of the benefits of Lemons on human health.  

How to Use Lemons? 

You must consult a qualified doctor before taking any herbal supplements. Do not discontinue or replace an ongoing treatment of modern medicine with an ayurvedic/herbal preparation without consulting a qualified doctor.   

Side Effects of Lemons: 

Likewise, a few side effects related to the consumption of lemons include: 

However, if you experience any adverse reactions to lemons, it is advised to discontinue its intake and immediately contact a doctor or your Ayurvedic physician who has prescribed it. They will be able to guide you appropriately for your symptoms. 

Also Read: What is a Kumquat? Exploring the Unique Characteristics and Benefits

Precautions to take with Lemons: 

Eating lemons is okay if taken in moderate amounts. However, general precautions must be followed in the following conditions: 

Interactions with Other Drugs: 

There is no significant interaction of lemons with other drugs. However, you must always seek the advice of your Ayurvedic physician about the possible interaction of lemons with other drugs and follow the prescription thoroughly, as they will know your health condition and other medications you are taking. 

Frequently Asked Questions: 

1) What is the scientific name of lemons? 

The scientific name of lemons is Citrus limon.1 

2) Can lemons help in weight loss? 

Yes, studies show that lemons may help in managing obesity and promoting weight loss. However, scientific evidence to support this claim is limited. Therefore, you should consult a doctor if you have any weight-related issues.6 

3)  Can lemons help in managing blood pressure?  

Yes, lemons may help manage blood pressure. This effect is attributed to the presence of Vitamin C. However, the exact mechanism is unclear and more research is needed to support these claims. Therefore, it is advised to consult a doctor for proper treatment in case you have abnormal blood pressure.7 

4) Can the consumption of lemon juice help manage kidney stones? 

Kidney stones are formed when citric acid salt citrate binds to calcium. Consumption of lemon juice increases the urinary excretion of citrate and, thus, may reduce the risk of kidney stones. However, there is a need to conduct more studies to support these claims. It is recommended to consult a doctor for proper treatment in case you have kidney stones. 

5) What are the side effects of excess lemon consumption? 

Consumption of lemons in excess can increase the risk of gastric reflux disease. Lemons are acidic and can cause dental erosion over a long period. They can also increase the risk of migraines due to the presence of tyramine.11 

References: 

  1. Model profile of 1.0 ha citrus cultivation – agricoop.nic.in. Available at: https://agricoop.nic.in/sites/default/files/Citrus%20cultivation.pdf  (Accessed: December 2, 2022).  
  1. Klimek-Szczykutowicz, Marta et al. “Citrus limon (Lemon) Phenomenon-A Review of the Chemistry, Pharmacological Properties, Applications in the Modern Pharmaceutical, Food, and Cosmetics Industries, and Biotechnological Studies.” Plants (Basel, Switzerland) vol. 9,1 119. 17 Jan. 2020, doi:10.3390/plants9010119. Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31963590/ 
  1. Lemon juice, raw (no date) Lemon juice, raw nutrition facts and analysis. Available at: https://www.nutritionvalue.org/Lemon_juice%2C_raw_nutritional_value.html?size=100%2Bg (Accessed: December 2, 2022).  
  1. Czech, Anna et al. “Mineral Content of the Pulp and Peel of Various Citrus Fruit Cultivars.” Biological trace element research vol. 193,2 (2020): 555-563. doi:10.1007/s12011-019-01727-1. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6944645/ 
  1. Singh, Nitika et al. “Features, Pharmacological Chemistry, Molecular Mechanism and Health Benefits of Lemon.” Medicinal chemistry (Shariqah (United Arab Emirates)) vol. 17,3 (2021): 187-202. doi:10.2174/1573406416666200909104050. Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32901586/ 
  1. Fukuchi, Yoshiko et al. “Lemon Polyphenols Suppress Diet-induced Obesity by Up-Regulation of mRNA Levels of the Enzymes Involved in beta-Oxidation in Mouse White Adipose Tissue.” Journal of clinical biochemistry and nutrition vol. 43,3 (2008): 201-9. doi:10.3164/jcbn.2008066. Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19015756/ 
  1. Al-Ataby, Israa A, and Wamidh H Talib. “Daily Consumption of Lemon and Ginger Herbal Infusion Caused Tumor Regression and Activation of the Immune System in a Mouse Model of Breast Cancer.” Frontiers in nutrition vol. 9 829101. 13 Apr. 2022, doi:10.3389/fnut.2022.829101. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9043650/ 
  1. Bahar, Zuhal et al. “Herbal therapies used by hypertensive patients in Turkey.” African journal of traditional, complementary, and alternative medicines: AJTCAM vol. 10,2 292-8. 31 Dec. 2012. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3746576/ 
  1. Amaral-Machado, Lucas et al. “Use of Natural Products in Asthma Treatment.” Evidence-based complementary and alternative medicine: eCAM vol. 2020 1021258. 13 Feb. 2020, doi:10.1155/2020/1021258. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7040422/#B49 
  1. Bhatt, Arun. “Evolution of clinical research: a history before and beyond James Lind.” Perspectives in clinical research vol. 1,1 (2010): 6-10. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3149409/ 
  1. Doctors, V.B.S.H. (2022) Lemon – health benefits, nutrition, side effects and more, Star Health. Available at: https://www.starhealth.in/blog/lemon (Accessed: December 3, 2022).  
  1. Shija, Kelvin M et al. “Effects of lemon decoction on malaria parasite clearance and selected hematological parameters in Plasmodium berghei ANKA infected mice.” BMC complementary medicine and therapies vol. 20,1 24. 30 Jan. 2020, doi:10.1186/s12906-020-2820-1. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7076818/pdf/12906_2020_Article_2820.pdf 
  1. Food revolution network (2022) How (and why) to use lemon in recipes, Food Revolution Network. Available at: https://foodrevolution.org/blog/lemon-recipes/ (Accessed: December 2, 2022).  
  1. Heidarzadeh-Esfahani, Neda et al. “Dietary Intake in Relation to the Risk of Reflux Disease: A Systematic Review.” Preventive nutrition and food science vol. 26,4 (2021): 367-379. doi:10.3746/pnf.2021.26.4.367. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8747955/ 
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11 Incredible Health Benefits Of Lemon

Summer is coming and a glass of lemonade on a hot summer day is the most refreshing drink one can have in summer. Lemonade calms your body and refreshes you instantly.

Lemon is a flavoured fruit. A small quantity of lemon juice can make its remarkable presence in foods and beverages. When we add a few drops of lemon juice to the curries, soup or drinks, it elevates the taste. 

Lemons have been around for years. This round, vibrant fruit from the flowering plant family named Rutaceae is scientifically known as a citrus lemon. This bright yellow coloured citrus fruit has a tangy sour taste due to its richness in citric acid. Though they are available in different shapes and sizes across the planet, lemon has its origin in Assam and other parts of Myanmar and China.

An interesting fact about lemon is it was found effective against scurvy in the 1700s. That was when James Lind found that lemons were very useful in treating a medical condition called scurvy (scurvy is a condition caused by low levels of vitamin C in the body).

Nutritional facts about lemon 

Lemon is a storehouse of vitamin C also enriched with Vitamin B6, copper, potassium, magnesium, zinc, flavonoids, antioxidants and phosphorus. It is low in calories and fat. Vitamin C present in the lemon also helps in the process of iron absorption in the body.

Did you know?

  • The antioxidants in lemons may help reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke. source: heart.org
  • Lemon water can improve digestion and relieve symptoms of indigestion, such as bloating and heartburn. source: ncbi
  • The high vitamin C content in lemons can boost testosterone levels in men. source: ncbi

Health benefits of lemon 

Lemon is a versatile fruit that is responsible for several health benefits. Lemons help to control various diseases and prevent them. 

1: Supports heart health 

Lemons are a good source of vitamin C and antioxidants. Research suggests that these two nutrients are beneficial for heart health and help prevent heart diseases and stroke. However, some amount of fibres present in lemon can also significantly lower some risk factors for heart diseases.

Few studies found that consuming lemon juice can help reduce high blood pressure. Lemon can be helpful with the main line of treatment of high blood pressure. Lemon contains two plant-compounds, such as hesperidin and diosmin – known to lower cholesterol. 

2: Help to boost immunity

We all know that lemon is an immunity-boosting fruit as it contains a high amount of vitamin C and antioxidants. It helps strengthen the immune system against germs that cause the common cold and the flu. A glass of hot water with lemon juice and a large spoonful of honey can help aid cough and cold.

3: May improve digestion 

Lemon contains a high amount of soluble fibres that help maintain regular bowel movements and also improves digestion. The main fibre present in lemon named pectin helps improve gut health by increasing the digestion rate of starch and sugar. 

Ayurvedic medicine believes that drinking a glass of water with lemon juice with its pulp in the morning can kick-start your digestion process. It also helps you have a healthy digestive system.

In my experience, your body will be able to absorb more iron from your diet’s plant-based foods if you use lemon. Anaemia, which is characterised by the deficiency of iron in the red blood cells. Among many reasons responsible for it, it is frequently associated with an iron shortage in your diet that may be corrected by maintaining adequate iron levels. So, apart from taking an iron-rich diet, you should include good amount of vitamin C in your diet for better absorption of iron.

Dr. Siddharth Gupta, B.A.M.S, M.D (Ayu)

4: Help to control weight

Fully squeezed lemon in a glass of lukewarm water with a tablespoon of honey can be a magic drink for many as this drink may aid in weight loss. Lemon contains a compound called pectin. It is a fibre that expands after ingestion, making you feel full sooner and longer. It will prevent you from snacking on unhealthy foods that will lead to weight gain. Pectin is present in the lemon pulp, so consuming lemon as a whole is essential.

Some studies found that antioxidants present in the lemon also helps to control your weight. Though these studies were animal studies, to rule out its effectiveness on humans, clinical trials are yet to be performed.  

Vitamin C, which supports immune system defence and may aid in the body’s ability to fight illness, can be found in one lemon, providing around half of the daily required dose. Lemons have citrus flavonoids as well. From my perspective, you may lessen your chance of developing brain illness and other degenerative diseases by consuming antioxidants that combat free radicals and have anti-inflammatory properties.

Dr. Rajeev Singh, BAMS

5: Help to reduce cancer risk: 

Lemon and lemon juice are a rich source of vitamin C and antioxidants that help fight against deadly diseases like cancer. Animal studies suggest that compounds present in the lemon- limonene and naringenin have anti-cancer properties. However, human studies are required to observe these effects. 

6: May help in oral disorders

We all know that vitamin C is an essential vitamin for teeth and gums. So, being a rich source of vitamin C, lemon is beneficial for oral disorders. Scurvy is an oral disorder where lemon helps so efficiently. Scurvy is a disease resulting from a lack of vitamin C leading to swollen gums, bleeding gums, etc. Lemon juice may have painkilling effects when applied locally to areas where there is a toothache. It may also help in reducing inflammation. 

Lemon juice contains an acid that, when consumed in large quantities, may erode tooth enamel and result in cavities. I strongly recommend making sure you take lemon juice with enough water to offset the acidity.

Dr. Smita barode, B.A.M.S, M.S.

7: Beneficial for skin 

Lemons contain high concentrations of vitamin C, which is required to generate collagen. Collagen gives our skin a plump and youthful look. It helps to reduce the fine lines on the face and make your skin clear.

Lemon is a small yet power-packed fruit with all nutrients. Consuming lemon juice as part of a varied diet can make a person’s diet more nutritious and healthful.  

Lemon oil may improve your mood by calming down anxiety and boosting your spirits. I recently came across an article and according to that research. tiny mice who breathed the vapour of lemon oil had fewer signs of stress.

Dr. Anuja Bodhare, B.A.M.S, M.D (Ayu)

8. Can Keep Hypertension in Check

As per a study published in the Journal of Nutrition and Metabolism, daily intake of lemon along with 30-60 minutes of brisk walking can keep your high blood pressure in check. Those who consumed lemons, showed reduced signs of hypertension as opposed to those who did not. 

9. Kidney Stone Prevention

High levels of citric acid present in the fresh fruit as well as the lemon juice concentrate can improve urinary citrate levels two-fold without altering the total urinary volume. Studies have revealed that lemonade or lemon juice concentrate can prevent kidney stones by forming urinary citrate which acts as a preventive method for crystal development.  

10. Beneficial for Throat Infection

Patients are often advised to consume lemon cough drops when they are suffering from a throat infection. This is because lemons are naturally endowed with antibacterial properties which will lessen the bacterial effects and bring about relief.

11. Good for Hair

Leon is high in vitamin c which boosts collagen and improves hair growth by stimulating hair follicles. If you have been suffering from hair loss you can mix two tablespoons of lemon juice with aloe vera gel and apply this to your scalp 30 minutes before your bath and then wash it off with a gentle hair cleanser. 

Side Effects of Lemon 

Anything consumed in excess can have a negative impact on your health. Although very nutritious, drinking lemon juice too much can have the following adverse effects:

  1. It can increase acid reflux and Gastroesophageal reflux disease 
  2. The acid present in lemon can increase symptoms of canker sores 
  3. Citrus fruits can cause frequent migraines 

Also Read: What Is Scurvy? A Deep Dive into the Vitamin C Deficiency Disease

How to Add Lemon to Your everyday Diet?

1. You can have lemon infused in lukewarm water

2. Lemon tea boosts weight loss, so you can have 2-3 cups daily by adding a few drops to your tea

3. You can squeeze the lemon juice into your salad 

  1. You can add a few drops of lemon to your roasted veggies or chicken
  2. You can use the juice of a lemon to marinate your meat 
  3. You can add a few drops of lemon juice to your rice when it’s cooking to prevent the grains from sticking to each other 
  4. You can make a lemon sorbet during the hot summer months for a refreshing bite in the sultry afternoons

Read more about: Health Benefits of Coconut

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