Lemons has been around been for a long time and are descended from the citron, the sour orange, and the pomelo. Researchers have used the DNA of today's citrus fruits to trace them back to the late Miocene epoch, meaning wild citrus trees have been growing for around seven to eight million years and the original trees came from the foothills of the southern Himalayas. It wasn't until the weather shifted and became drier that they began to spread, this was about four million years ago, and we’ve cultivated it since then. Lemons were especially prized by the ancient Romans and other Mediterranean peoples, who considered them a valuable commodity for their rarity, exoticism, and their usefulness, both practical and symbolic.
We still value lemons and there are many wellbeing benefits we should know about them.
Vitamin C
Lemons are an excellent source of vitamin C and flavonoids which are antioxidants. Antioxidants help remove free radicals that can damage body cells. It also helps to absorb iron.
Digestion
For some people a glass of lemon water first thing in the morning acts as a laxative. It is low in calories and helps with constipation by getting the digestive system going.
Hydration
Water keeps you hydrated. And by adding lemon, you will be able to enhance the taste as well. In winter months, especially, people tend to skip drinking water, which could lead to dehydration. Lemon water can be stored in a bottle and sipped throughout the day.
Skin quality
Either eating vitamin C in its natural form, drinking lemon water religiously, or applying it topically you’ll be able to see the difference in your skin and maintain a healthy complexion. Lemon helps with wrinkles, dry skin and skin damage due to sun exposure and pollution
Weight loss
Studies done in the past have found that lemons boost metabolism, thus supporting weight loss. Have glass of lemon or eat it water first thing in the morning if you want to keep your weight in check.
Kidney stones
It has been found that citrate, a component of citric acid, can make the urine less acidic and break up small stones that could potentially cause harm. Lemons help flush them out from the body, thus reducing the risk of developing kidney stones.
Inhalation
The strong scent is believed to help clear the nasal passages, and it's thought to be particularly helpful to those with asthma or other respiratory issues. Breathing lemons before bed each evening is recommended
Insect repellent
Not only does the strong smell of a cut lemon act as a natural air freshener, but it'll also help keep mosquitoes and ants away. Great to rub on after mosquitos’ bites to disinfect the area and stop the desire to itch.