Lemon oil

Lemon oil

Scientific name: Citrus medica limonum, Ayurveda name: Nimbu 

Lemon is a household name in India is used in cuisines across the country. This fruit is a common ingredient in Ayurveda and is used in medicines and essential oils. Apart from that, lemons are used in most Indian cuisine and refreshing drinks. Referred to as Nimbutka and Dantashara in Ayurveda, this fruit is often grown in India, China, and Myanmar. Consuming this fruit aids in better digestion, detoxification of the body, and improves immunity. On the other hand, the lemon essential oil is used in Ayurveda massages, especially for weight loss. Lemon essential oils are usually cold-pressed from the peel or the rind of the fruit. 

Benefits of using lemon oil:

• According to Ayurveda, an imbalance in dosha is the primary reason for illnesses. Massages with lemon essential oil help balancevata dosha, making one’s body immune to diseases. 
• The aromatic properties of lemon essential oil are immense. It helps one calm aids relaxation, improving the clarity of the mind, and even prevents anxiety to some extent. 
• Pushtiprada is a quality associated with lemons which refers to the nourishment of the skin. The sourness of this fruit helps in deep cleansing pores. 
• Similarly, varnya is another quality associated with lemon essential oil. This refers to the ability of lemon oil to improve the complexion and general health of the skin. 
• Ayurvedadescribes this fruit asvisha hara, highlighting its ability to detoxify the body and mind (because of its aromatherapy properties) when used in massages. 

How can lemon oil be used?

This essential oil is primarily used for topical application and Ayurveda massages. Applying this oil on one’s skin can help prevent common skin-related problems like acne, pigmentation, dark spots, and tanning. Regular application will improve skin health and adds a glow as it aids better blood circulation. Two or three drops of lemon oil can be mixed with jojoba oil and applied onto the skin for better results. 

To use it for Ayurveda massage, three or four drops of lemon oil can be infused base oils like coconut oil and massages onto various parts of the body. Applying a few drops of this oil with almond oil can be massaged onto the scalp to prevent dandruff and improve general hair health. Adding a few drops of lemon oil in bath water helps relieve tension in the mind and body and induce better sleep. 

Side effects:

Lemon oil can be used by all people if they are not allergic to the fruit. Since it is an essential oil, it can be a little strong for people with sensitive skin and is advisable to do a patch test before using it on the entire body. For babies, the oil can be used after three months. There might be redness and/or a burning sensation for some people when they are exposed to sunlight, so those people should avoid such exposure after using lemon (and citrus) oils.