The lemon's peel and juice are used widely as household seasonings. It is high in vitamins A, B, and C. In European countries, notably Spain, it is used as a "cure-all," for infectious diseases. On English ships, it was used specifically to prevent scurvy. Taken internally, lemon juice is considered invaluable for acidic disorders.

The lemon tree is a small evergreen that grows up to 20 feet tall with serrated leaves, thorns, & fragrant flowers. The essential oil is obtained by cold expression from the outer peel. It is a pale green-yellow liquid with a light, citrus smell.

Lemon is claimed to have antimicrobial, antirheumatic, antiseptic, antitoxic, stringent, bactericidal, hypotensive, tonic, & vermifuge properties. This oil may be beneficial for dissolving cellulite; soothing broken capillaries, digestive problems, nervous & respiratory problems, & sore throats; providing energy; & cleansing hair & dirty skin.

Lemon is used as a flavoring agent in pharmaceuticals, and as a fragrance component in soaps, cosmetics, and detergents. Lemon is native to Asia, and now grows wild in Spain and Portugal.

Chemical constituents are monoterpenes (limonene 54-72%, terpinenes 7-14 %), sesquiterpenes; aldehydes; & coumarines. Safety Data: Non-toxic; May cause dermal irritation. Phototoxic- Do not use on skin exposed to direct sunlight.