Lemon Essential Oil
Lemon essential oil has a rich history and is derived from the lemon fruit, scientifically known as Citrus limon. It is one of the best selling oils that doterra offers.
Historical Significance
Lemon essential oil has been used for centuries in various cultures for its aromatic, medicinal, and culinary properties. Its history can be traced back to ancient China and India, where it was used as a remedy for digestive issues and as a fragrance. Lemon oil was also known to ancient Egyptians, who used it in perfumes and for its antiseptic properties.
During the European Renaissance, lemon trees were cultivated in Italy and other Mediterranean countries, and lemon oil gained popularity as a natural remedy for scurvy among sailors. The oil's refreshing scent made it a favorite in perfumes and cosmetics throughout history.
Plant Description
The lemon tree, Citrus limon, is a small evergreen tree that belongs to the Rutaceae family. It is native to South Asia, primarily northeast India, and northern Myanmar. The lemon tree is now cultivated in many parts of the world with suitable climates, including the Mediterranean region, the Americas, and Australia.
Here are some key characteristics of the lemon tree:
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Leaves: The lemon tree has elliptical or oblong, glossy green leaves with a fragrant aroma when crushed. The leaves are rich in aromatic compounds and contribute to the citrusy scent of the plant.
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Flowers: Lemon trees produce small, fragrant white or pale pink flowers. These flowers are not only visually appealing but also contribute to the production of lemons.
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Fruit: The lemon fruit is oval to elliptical in shape, bright yellow when ripe, and typically measures 2 to 4 inches in length. It has a tart and refreshing flavor due to its high citric acid content. Lemon essential oil is primarily extracted from the lemon peel or zest.
Extraction of Lemon Essential Oil:
Lemon essential oil is obtained through a process called cold-press extraction. The oil is typically extracted from the outer peel or zest of the lemon fruit. Here's a simplified overview of the extraction process:
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Lemons are thoroughly washed to remove any dirt or impurities from the peel.
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The outer peel, or zest, is carefully removed from the lemon fruit.
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The lemon zest is then mechanically cold-pressed to extract the essential oil. Cold-pressing involves applying pressure to the peel without the use of heat or chemicals to preserve the oil's purity and aroma.
Lemon essential oil is known for its bright, citrusy fragrance and is widely used in aromatherapy, perfumery, skincare products, and for its potential health benefits. It is important to note that essential oils should be used with caution and diluted when applied to the skin, as they are highly concentrated.
Take a Closer Look
EXTRACTION METHOD
Compression
AROMATIC DESCRIPTION
Clean, Fresh, Citrus, Bright
BOTANICAL FAMILY
Rutaceae (citrus)
PLANT PART
Rind (peel)
DIRECTIONS FOR USE
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Diffusion: Use three to four drops in the diffuser of your choice.
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Internal: Dilute one drop in 4 fl. oz. of liquid.
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Topical Use: Apply one to two drops to desired area. Dilute with Fractionated Coconut Oil to minimize any skin sensitivity.
RECOMMENDED USES
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Take internally to assist with seasonal respiratory discomfort.
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Use a cloth soaked in Lemon oil to preserve and protect your leather furniture and other leather surfaces or garments.
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Lemon oil is a great remedy for the early stages of tarnish on silver and other metals.
BENEFITS
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Immune System Support: Lemon oil contains antioxidants, which can help support the immune system, making it easier to maintain health.
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Digestive Aid: Lemon oil may promote healthy digestion by stimulating the production of digestive juices and easing digestive discomfort.
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Detoxification: Lemon oil can assist the body in eliminating toxins and waste products due to its diuretic properties, which may support kidney function.
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Weight Management: Lemon oil may aid in weight management by promoting feelings of fullness and reducing overeating.
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Oral Health: lemon oil can be used for oral hygiene to freshen breath and promote healthy gums.
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Respiratory Health: Inhaling lemon oil may help alleviate respiratory issues like stuffiness and promote easier breathing.
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Skin Care: Lemon oil is beneficial for the skin. It can be used to cleanse and tone the skin, reduce the appearance of blemishes, and promote a healthy complexion.
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Hair Health: Adding a few drops of lemon oil to your hair care routine can help balance scalp oils, reduce dandruff, and leave your hair looking shiny and healthy.
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Surface Cleaning: Lemon oil possesses natural cleansing properties, which can help in cleaning surfaces and the whole home.
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Discomfort: Topical application of diluted lemon oil may provide relief from minor aches and discomforts, such as head tension and muscle aches.
CAUTIONS
Possible skin sensitivities. Keep out of reach of children. if you are pregnant, nursing, or under a doctor's care, consult your physician. Avoid contact with eyes, inner ears, and other sensitive areas. Avoid sunlight or UV rays for up to 12 hours after applying product.
10 ways to use lemon oil
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Homemade Air Freshener: Create a natural air freshener by combining a few drops of lemon oil with water in a spray bottle. Use it to freshen up your home, car, or linens.
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Wood Polish: Mix lemon oil with a carrier oil like olive oil to create a homemade wood polish. It can help clean and shine wooden furniture and surfaces while leaving a pleasant scent.
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Goo Remover: Lemon oil can effectively remove sticky residues from labels, stickers, or tape. Apply a few drops to the residue, let it sit for a few minutes, and then gently scrape it off.
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Laundry Booster: Add a few drops of lemon oil to your laundry detergent to help remove stains, brighten whites, and leave clothes smelling fresh.
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Flavor Enhancer: Enhance the flavor of your dishes by adding a drop or two of lemon oil to recipes that call for lemon zest or juice. It's a convenient way to infuse a citrusy taste into your culinary creations.
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DIY All-Purpose Cleaner: Make a natural and effective all-purpose cleaner by mixing lemon oil with vinegar and water. This solution can be used to clean countertops, appliances, and bathroom surfaces.
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Refreshing Bath: Add a few drops of lemon oil to your bathwater for a refreshing and invigorating bathing experience. It can help uplift your mood and leave your skin feeling revitalized.
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Foot Soak: Create a soothing foot soak by adding a few drops of lemon oil to warm water. Soak your feet to help relieve fatigue and soften rough skin.
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Silverware and Jewelry Cleaner: Lemon oil can be used to clean and polish silverware, jewelry, and metal surfaces. It helps remove tarnish and restore shine.
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Homemade Lip Balm: Make your own lip balm by mixing lemon oil with coconut oil and beeswax. This DIY lip balm will keep your lips moisturized and smelling delightful.
diy recipes with lemon oil
Lemon-Scented Drawer Sachets
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Ingredients:
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Small fabric or organza bags
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Dried lavender buds or rice
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5-10 drops of lemon essential oil
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Instructions:
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Fill the fabric bags with dried lavender buds or rice.
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Add 5-10 drops of lemon essential oil to each bag.
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Seal the bags and place them in your drawers to keep your clothes smelling fresh and lemony.
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Lemon-Vanilla Oil Sugar Scrub
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Ingredients:
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1 cup granulated sugar
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1/4 cup coconut oil
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10 drops of lemon essential oil
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10 drops of Vanilla essential oil
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Instructions:
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Mix the granulated sugar and coconut oil in a bowl until you achieve a scrub-like consistency.
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Add essential oil and mix well.
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Use this homemade lemon sugar scrub to exfoliate your skin, leaving it soft and rejuvenated.
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Lemon and Eucalyptus Shower Disks
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Ingredients:
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1 cup baking soda
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1/4 cup water
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10 drops of lemon essential oil
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10 drops of eucalyptus essential oil
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Instructions:
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Mix the baking soda and water to form a thick paste.
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Add the lemon and eucalyptus essential oils and mix thoroughly.
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Form the mixture into small disks and let them dry for 24 hours.
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Place a shower disk on the floor of your shower to release the invigorating scent of lemon and eucalyptus as you bathe.
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Furniture Wax
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Ingredients:
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1/2 cup beeswax
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1/4 cup coconut oil
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10-15 drops of lemon essential oil
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10 drops Arborvitae oil
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Instructions:
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In a double boiler, melt the beeswax and coconut oil together.
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Remove from heat and stir in essential oil.
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Pour the mixture into a container and allow it to cool and solidify.
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Use this homemade lemon furniture wax to polish and protect your wooden furniture.
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Lemon Oil Hair Detangler
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Ingredients:
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1 cup distilled water
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1 tablespoon vegetable glycerin
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5-10 drops of lemon essential oil
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Instructions:
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Mix the distilled water and vegetable glycerin in a spray bottle.
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Add 5-10 drops of lemon essential oil and shake well.
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Spray this lemon oil hair detangler onto wet or dry hair to help smooth out tangles and leave your hair smelling fresh.
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essential emotions & spirituality
Lemon - The Oil of Focus
Emotional Benefits
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Mood Enhancement: Lemon oil has a bright and uplifting scent that can help improve mood and reduce feelings of stress and anxious feelings. Inhaling the aroma can promote a sense of emotional balance and positivity.
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Stress Reduction: The fresh, citrusy aroma of lemon oil is known to have calming effects on the mind. It can help reduce stress and tension, making it a valuable tool for relaxation.
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Improved Focus and Concentration: Lemon oil's invigorating scent can enhance mental clarity and focus. It is particularly useful for combating mental fatigue and promoting productivity.
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Increased Energy: The energizing aroma of lemon oil can provide a natural energy boost. It can help combat feelings of lethargy and promote alertness and vitality.
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Emotional Cleansing: Lemon oil is often associated with emotional cleansing and purification. It can be used to release negative emotions, promote mental clarity, and encourage a fresh start.
Spiritual Benefits
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Purification: Lemon essential oil is believed to have purifying properties, both energetically and spiritually. Many people use it in rituals and practices to cleanse and purify their surroundings or aura.
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Clarity and Insight: Lemon oil's bright scent is thought to help clear mental clutter and provide clarity and insight during meditation and introspection.
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Spiritual Cleansing: Lemon oil can be used as part of a spiritual cleansing ritual to remove negative energy or unwanted influences from a space or a person.
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Emotional Release: In some spiritual practices, lemon oil is used to facilitate emotional release and forgiveness. It can help release emotional blockages and promote emotional healing.
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Connection to Joy: Lemon oil's uplifting properties are associated with joy and happiness. Using it during spiritual practices can help individuals connect with their inner sense of joy and gratitude.
Negative Emotions: Confusion, inability to focus, mental fatigue, lack of joy and energy, learning disorders, guilt
Positive Properties: Focus, energy, mentally connected, alert, mental clarity, rational, joyful
Don't have this oil?
Substitutes may include:
Citrus Bliss, Lime, Peppermint, Wild Orange.
lemon oil affirmations
Affirmations are positive statements or phrases that individuals repeat to themselves as a way to cultivate a positive mindset, boost self-esteem, and achieve their goals. They can help shift your focus from negative or self-limiting thoughts to more empowering and constructive beliefs. When combined with essential oils like lemon oil, affirmations can create a powerful synergy, enhancing the emotional and psychological benefits of both practices.
Here are five affirmations that can be used in conjunction with lemon oil:
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Affirmation: "I am filled with confidence and positivity."
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Lemon oil, with its uplifting aroma, can amplify feelings of confidence and positivity, reinforcing this affirmation's message.
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Affirmation: "I release negativity and embrace joy in my life."
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Lemon oil's cleansing properties align well with this affirmation, helping you let go of negativity and welcome joy.
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Affirmation: "I am motivated and productive in all that I do."
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Lemon oil's invigorating scent can boost your energy and mental clarity, enhancing your motivation and productivity.
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Affirmation: "I radiate happiness and attract positivity into my life."
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Lemon oil's bright and cheerful aroma can complement this affirmation, promoting a radiant and positive aura.
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Affirmation: "I am in perfect harmony with my surroundings."
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Lemon oil's clean and refreshing scent can create a harmonious environment that resonates with this affirmation.
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How Affirmations and Essential Oils Synergistically Work Together:
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Enhanced Focus: The act of repeating affirmations can help center your thoughts and intentions. When paired with the scent of essential oils like lemon, it can create a sensory anchor that deepens your focus on the affirmation's message.
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Emotional Alignment: Essential oils have distinct aromatic profiles that can trigger emotional responses. When you use an oil like lemon that aligns with your affirmation's intent (e.g., positivity), it can reinforce the emotional alignment you seek.
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Mind-Body Connection: The combination of verbal repetition and olfactory stimulation can strengthen the mind-body connection. This synergy can promote a sense of well-being and help you internalize and believe in the affirmations.
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Creating Rituals: Incorporating essential oils into your affirmation practice can transform it into a soothing and enjoyable ritual. This can make the process of positive self-affirmation more pleasant and sustainable.
To use affirmations with essential oils like lemon, simply choose an affirmation that resonates with your current goals or emotional needs. Then, find a quiet, comfortable space, apply a diluted form of the essential oil (if using topically), and repeat the affirmation aloud or in your mind. Inhale the aroma of the oil as you do so, allowing it to enhance the positive feelings associated with your affirmation. This practice can be part of your daily self-care routine to promote mental and emotional well-being.