Lavandin (Grosso) Oil

Lavendin-bannerThe dream of filling your garden and your home with the mesmerizing fragrance of Lavender blossoms is not a distant dream anymore as Lavandin is such a simple medicinal plant that resembles Lavender and its enriching aroma never fails to fill your home any lesser than Lavender does. As a hybrid of Lavender vera and Spike lavender, Lavandin Grosso is an excellent remedy for scabies and certain other infectious skin problems.

World is a global village and it is this strong reason that turns the world towards the path of Traditional healing methodologies. Ayurveda, the mother of all healing sciences on earth is the pioneer of Complementary and Alternative Medicine. Lavandin is used in Ayurvedic healing for treating respiratory problems, breathing difficulties, acne, eczema, stiff joints, varicose veins, pain and depression.

Purchase Lavendin (Grosso) Oil – Retail – 4 oz – CLICK HERE

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History of Lavandin (Grosso):

It is a hybrid variety of plants developed in the early 18th century and the essential oils extracted from these hybrid varieties were initially used for manufacturing soaps, perfumes and certain other personal hygiene products.

France is known as the major producer of Lavandin plants and essential oils. Lavandin essential oils are comparatively cheaper than True Lavender varieties. This is because unlike Lavender, these hybrid varieties can be grown as a commercially viable crop and are more tolerant to various climatic and growing conditions.

Lavandin Grosso is named after its discoverer Grosso and it reflects true qualities of both of its parentage with the camphoric aroma of Lavandula latifolia and the frost hardiness of Lavandula angustifolia. Among the numerous other Lavender hybrid plants, Lavandin Grosso is the most predominantly chosen plant by the commercial Lavender farm growers as it is easy to grow in most regions and produce abundant Lavandin flowers that contain ample amount of essential oils.

The big and bright flowers of this plant are also used for making sachets (keeps your clothes fresh and protect from moths and other insects) and the long stems are used in making Lavender wands. Initially, Lavandin and its essential oil were used as an analgesic and antiseptic for relieving pain, inflammation and for healing wounds and skin infections. Lavandin flowers were also used in making tea that was trusted to discharge excess mucous deposits and to assist breathing difficulties.

Chemical constituents or Gas Chromatography Report (GC) of Lavandin Grosso oil:

According to the Gas chromatography report, Lavandin Grosso oil constitutes of 25 chemical components that contribute to its fragrance, therapeutic attributes, consistency and quality. Of which, Linalyl acetate contributes to the highest proportion of Lavandin Grosso oil constituents with about 34.5% of its total composition.

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I believe that this must certainly help you in getting to know the exclusive information about these prime chemical constituents of Lavandin Grosso oil.

The table crafted below clearly depicts the unique nature and contributions of these biochemical constituents to the healing magnificence of Lavandin Grosso essential oil.

lavandin-oil

Therapeutic properties of Lavandin Oil:

The remedial properties are antiseptic, antidepressant, analgesic, vulnerary, expectorant, cicatrisant, nervine, antispasmodic and stimulant.

Ayurvedic health benefits of Lavandin Essential Oil:

Many of us misconstrue that Ayurveda and the other traditional healing practices are meant for the old people or people who are still attached to the Stone Age. Ayurveda is the first and foremost healing methodology to love human beings and appreciate their individual identity, feelings, characteristics and behavioral patterns.

When all other medical sciences in this world aim at treating illnesses, this ancient healing system focused on treating individuals and not just their illnesses.

Ayurvedic philosophy declares that human beings are a part of nature and a person’s wellness or sickness depends upon his balance or imbalance with nature. Diseases occur when an individual’s mind and body is out of balance with nature. It is for this reason Ayurvedic remedies are based upon natural medicines for striking perfect balance with an archway to prevention and healthy aging.

Every individual is distinctive with a unique individual constitution that comprises of three biological energies known as doshas. They are vata, pitta and kapha. Each of these doshas governs certain functions of our body where vata is responsible for nervous functions and circulation, pitta controls metabolism and body temperature and kapha governs fluid movements, consistency and skin health.

Predominance of any of these doshas determines the personality, character, physical set up and the mental makeup of a person.

Imbalance between any of these doshas causes illness and Ayurvedic medications are prescribed in such a way that the imbalances are treated. Lavandin essential oil is said to reduce kapha and pitta dosha and has a neutral effect on vata dosha.

Let’s take a look at the Ayurvedic health benefits of Lavandin essential oil:

lavandin-broucher1. Benefits to the skin:

Popular author Susanne Fischer-Rizzi states that Lavender has more than 167 tested and proven medicinal uses. Bryan Miller and Light Miller in their book ‘Ayurveda and Aromatherapy’ says that Lavender is a must have essential oil in your first-aid kit or travel bag. With much similar aroma and healing properties like Lavender, Lavandin essential oil is also beneficial in a number of ways especially for nurturing skin health.

With excellent antiseptic, vulnerary and cicatrisant properties Lavandin essential oil has been proven effective for treating numerous skin problems. It keeps the skin clean and fights against various germs.

The ability of this oil in killing germs contributes to its effectiveness in treating dermatitis, scabies and few other infectious skin disorders. Being an effective antiseptic Lavandin essential oil can assist in treating wounds, cuts, burns, boils and rashes. It protects the open wounds from being septic or getting affected by the harmful organisms in air like tetanus.

The vulnerary properties of this oil helps in speeding up the process of healing wounds especially in case of incisions, surgical wounds, cuts or other accidental wounds. Applying 2 drops of Lavandin essential oil mixed with 1 ml of coconut oil is a sure-shot remedy for quick healing of wounds, protecting from infections and for fading away the scars and marks left by wounds, acne, stretch marks, surgical marks, cracks and other marks related to pregnancy.

Lavendin essential oil improves blood circulation and encourages the growth of new skin cells which contribute to its natural anti-scarring properties. You can also blend 3 to 4 drops of Lavendin oil in 2 ml of olive oil or to your regular skin care lotion and gently massage on to the skin to clear blemishes, treat sluggishness, dry skin and for improving the natural glow of the skin.

2. Benefits to the mind:

Lavandin essential oil has a rejuvenating and calming aroma that acts as an admirable antidepressant oil. The presence of camphor, linalyl acetate and terpineol-4 enhances its soothing and stimulating attributes that benefit the mind and heart in numerous ways. Lavandin Grosso oil is regarded as a great natural remedy for alleviating stress, fatigue, anxiety and depression. Certain studies have proven that Lavandin essential oil have anxiolytic effects that aid in improving the quality of sleep and save you from insomnia and nightmares.

Feelings of loneliness, lack of self-confidence, insecurity, loss of love or your near ones and work pressure may drag you down and waive a red flag to all your endeavors. All you need to do is to waive back the pleasant Lavandin flag that can uplift your spirit, enhance your self-confidence, fight against depressive feelings and reassure your success.

Adding 2 to 3 drops of Lavandin oil in your vaporizer, burner, diffuser, aroma lamp or bath tub can help in combating negative thoughts and grant the power to swim against the tide.

A 2009 study on ‘The use of the essential oil of Lavandin to reduce preoperative anxiety in surgical patients’ by the United Hospital, MN, USA tested about 150 adult patients to assess the effectiveness of Lavandin essential oil in reducing preoperative anxiety than other standard care methodologies. This study came up with an amazing result stating “Controlling for baseline anxiety and pain, the lavandin group had significantly lower anxiety on OR transfer, suggesting that lavandin is a simple, low-risk, cost-effective intervention with the potential to improve preoperative outcomes and increase patient satisfaction.”

3. Benefits to the respiratory system:

Adding 2 to 3 drops of Lavandin essential oil in steam inhalation or blending 2 drops of Lavandin oil with 1 ml of coconut oil and massaging it on chest, throat and back aids in treating cough, cold, bronchitis, sinusitis, chest congestion and other breathing problems. This is mainly due to the antiseptic properties of Lavandin oil that is proven to combat germs causing respiratory problems and its expectorant values that expel mucous and phlegm deposits in the chest and nasal passages causing cough and congestion.

4. Benefits to the entire body:

Lavandin Grosso oil benefits the entire body by supporting the functions of the nervous system. Using it as a massage oil by mixing 5 drops of this oil with 2.5 ml of jojoba oil aid in strengthening the nervous system and activate the nerves that pass on to different parts of the body. This is of great assistance in treating nervousness, sluggishness, convulsions, Alzheimer’s disease, lack of concentration and reflexes and certain other nervous problems.

Jane Buckle says “Lavandin Grosso was shown to be very effective against non-tubercular opportunistic mycobacteria (NTM) which is common in AIDS. Grosso is high in linalool for infections.” Lavandin essential oil also aids in treating pain, inflammation, rheumatism, influenza, headache, stiff joints, muscular problems etc, with its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.

Disclaimer:

This article is only for the purpose of information and is not destined for diagnosis or to substitute any prescribed medicines or professional advice. Never use essential oils internally and always use them in a diluted form for topical application as pure and organic essential oils are highly concentrated liquids and may cause harm if not used properly. Prevention is better than cure and it is always advisable to consult your Ayurvedic practitioner before choosing the right essential oils for your unique constitution and health condition.

The MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet) of Lavandin Grosso oil is readily available for your enhanced safety and better usage.

Gas Chromatography Report (GC analysis) of Lavandin Grosso oil.

Thought for the day:  

The Universe is one great kindergarten for man. Everything that exists has brought with it its own peculiar lesson.     -Orison Swett Marden

Suggested Reading:

  1. Lavender: The Genus Lavandula (Medicinal and Aromatic Plants – Industrial Profiles) from CRC Press
  2. ISO 8902:1999, Oil of lavandin Grosso (Lavandula angustifolia Miller x Lavandula latifolia (L.f.) Medikus), French type by ISO TC 54
  3. The Lavender Garden: Beautiful Varieties to Grow and Gather by Robert Kourik
  4. The Lavender Lover’s Handbook: The 100 Most Beautiful and Fragrant Varieties for Growing, Crafting, and Cooking by Sarah Berringer Bader

Reference Links:

  1. The use of the essential oil of Lavandin to reduce preoperative anxiety in surgical patients’ by the United Hospital, MN, USA published in PubMed
  2. Lavandula by Wikipedia
  3. Lavandula x intermedia ‘Grosso’ by Missouri Botanical Garden
  4. Health Benefits of Lavandin Essential Oil by Organic Facts

Lemongrass Essential Oil

Lemon-grass-bannerNature’s super glue for the human body is the right way to honor Lemongrass essential oil because it is as quick and fast as any branded adhesive glue in repairing torn tendons, ligaments, cartilages, tenosynovitis, inflamed tissues and certain other connective tissue injuries. This oil smells heavenly and is much similar to the aroma of Lemon oil but with a comparatively gentle, sweet and soothing aroma.

Used as a celebrated culinary herb in Thai and Chinese cuisines, Lemongrass is often used to substitute Lemon.  This essential oil is extracted from the grassy leaves through steam distillation process. Ayurveda makes use of this ancient herb in treating weak digestion, poor circulation, poor concentration, fever, varicose veins, intestinal infections and certain infectious skin problems.

Purchase Lemongrass Oil – Retail – 4 oz – CLICK HERE

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Historical uses of Lemongrass and its essential oil:

Indigenous to the southern parts of India, this spectacular herb is also found growing in South East Asian countries including Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam. It is also cultivated in United States especially in Florida and California.

Lemongrass is a celebrated culinary herb in the Caribbean and Chinese cuisines. This aromatic herb blends well with garlic, ginger, cilantro and other spices used in flavoring a wide variety of Caribbean soups especially the seafood soups. Powdered Lemongrass has been used in Asia for giving incredible flavor to traditional dishes made with meat, poultry, seafood and vegetables. It is also used in spicing up pickles and marinades.

Widely known as ‘Fever Grass’, Lemongrass is popular in the Asian countries since the primordial times for its ability to bring down fever and normalize the body temperature during hot weather. It is either used in tea or in foot-baths for reducing fever and excess heat in the body. This tea is also believed to treat ringworm, lice, scabies and few other skin problems.

The Traditional Chinese Medicine used Lemongrass for treating headache, rheumatism, abdominal pain and cold. This herb was also a part of the Brazilian folklore medicine for calming the mind, treating muscular spasms, cramps and fatigue. Powdered along with black pepper, Lemongrass was used as a powerful Ayurvedic remedy for relieving menstrual cramps, nausea, irregular periods, fever and other infectious diseases.

Therapeutic properties of Lemongrass essential oil:

The remedial properties of Lemongrass essential oil are antiseptic, anti-rheumatic, diuretic, anti-inflammatory, astringent, analgesic, sedative, deodorant, galactogogue, nervine, tonic, carminative, antimicrobial, antidepressant, febrifuge, bactericidal, fungicidal, deodorant, antipyretic and nervine.

Chemical constituents or Gas Chromatography Report of Lemongrass essential oil:

According to the Gas chromatography report, Lemongrass oil constitutes of 5 chemical components that contribute to its exotic fragrance, therapeutic properties and quality.

The major chemical constituents of this oil are citral (Geranial and Neral – approximately 85% of the oil), geraniol, geranyl acetate and beta-Caryophyllene.

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for getting to know more about the exclusive information of these key constituents of Lemongrass oil.

The table below on the Gas Chromatography report talks about the principal chemical constituents and its role in granting the therapeutic and other attributes to Lemongrass oil.

Lemongrass-oilAyurvedic health benefits of Lemongrass essential oil:

Ayurveda uses infinite number of herbs in the process of healing humanity and Lemongrass is one such vital herbal whiz kid that has been helping mankind in treating innumerable diseases.

Known as Sera and Bhustrina in India, Lemongrass has been used in various Ayurvedic treatments for treating kidney infections, headache, problems with connective tissues, weak immune system and depression.

More than 5,000 years old, Ayurveda is by far the oldest of all healing sciences on earth and is the Mother of other complementary and alternative medicinal practices like Siddha, Homeopathy, Aromatherapy, Chiropractic, Acupuncture, Homeopathy, Traditional Chinese Medicine, Unani and much more. This science of wisdom has left behind innumerable complex healing systems using simple methodologies.

The ancient Ayurvedic philosophers Charaka and Sushruta encompassed the most important Ayurvedic remedies for all sorts of diseases. The most intricate medical practices even with today’s contemporary medicinal equipments and techniques are C-section surgery and Plastic surgery. Won’t you simply be amazed if I say that these two were a part of the Ayurvedic treatments???!!!! Yes.

Sushruta is called as the father of Plastic surgery and C-section deliveries were executed for the most critical cases where the baby or the mother turns breathless at the time of delivery.

The magnificence of Ayurvedic healing lies in its trust and usage of natural remedies like herbs, healthy and balanced diet, essential oils, yoga, simple physical exercises, meditation with an Ayurvedic routine. This aims at treating illnesses, preventing them in future along with healthy aging. Ayurvedic texts define health as a combination of physical, mental and spiritual wellness.

Every human being is made of a unique individual constitution that comprises of three biological energies known as doshas namely pitta, vata and kapha. A person’s physical setup, personality and behavior are determined by the predominance of any one of these doshas.

Imbalance between these doshas is responsible for ill-health and Ayurvedic remedies focus on balancing these doshas. Lemongrass essential oil alleviates excess kapha and pitta dosha while it has a neutral effect on vata dosha.

The Ayurvedic health benefits of Lemongrass essential oil are as follows:

Lemongrass-broucher1. Fights against harmful micro-organisms:

Lemongrass essential oil has been proved effective against micro-organisms like bacteria, fungi and certain other microbes. Few studies witnessed that Lemongrass oil is more potent than streptomycin or penicillin in fighting against staph infection. Staphylococcus is the major bacterium responsible for making wounds turn septic.

Applying 2 drops of Lemongrass oil mixed with 15 to 20 drops of coconut oil on wounds, cuts, acne, burns, sores and other skin infections aids in healing the wounds and curbs the growth of micro-organisms that worsen skin problems. This effect can also be attributed to the antiseptic properties of this oil.

A 2008 study on ‘Antifungal activity of the Lemongrass oil and citral against Candida spp’ state that Lemongrass essential oil and citral are effective against various types of yeasts of Candida species including Candida albicans, Candida glabrata, Candida krusei, Candida parapsilosis and Candida tropicalis, proving its potent in vitro activity against Candida spp, responsible for the most common fungal infection Candidiasis.

Certain other studies suggest that Lemongrass oil can also assist in combating the growth of fungi like Alternaria alternata, which is said to cause infections in the upper respiratory tract.

Gently massaging your body with 5 drops of Lemongrass oil blended with 2.5 ml olive oil can assist in inhibiting the growth of bacteria and microbes both externally and internally. This aids in treating microbial infections in the respiratory system, skin, stomach, colon, urinary tracts and other parts of the body.

2. Reduces fever and pain:

Being an anti-pyretic and febrifuge, the essential oil of Lemongrass reduces fever by fighting against infections causing fever, promote sweating and by eliminating the harmful toxins in the body through urine. According to the Ayurvedic philosophy, pitta dosha is responsible for body temperature and fever is an indication of increased pitta energy.

Lemongrass essential oil is known to reduce pitta dosha and by this way it lessens the body temperature even during high fevers. Add 2 drops of this oil in warm water for a remedial foot bath for reducing fever or massage your foot soles with 2 drops of Lemongrass oil mixed with 1 ml of coconut oil for relief from fever.

This oil also lessens excess of kapha energy that causes fluid retention in the body causing respiratory problems, rheumatism, pain and inflammation.

Gently massaging the painful areas with 2 drops of Lemongrass oil mixed with 1 ml of sesame oil helps in relieving pain, inflammation and rheumatism by eliminating the excess fluids and toxic substances through urine and sweat.  The analgesic action of this oil helps in soothing pain, tired muscles, headache, joint pain and back pain.

3. Enhances immunity and strengthens the nervous system:

Lemongrass herb and its essential oil have excellent nutrients and chemical components that benefit the entire system and augment the immune power, which makes the body naturally resistant against diseases. It acts as a tonic to the human body and strengthens the functioning of the digestive system, nervous system, excretory system and respiratory system by stimulating the process of absorbing essential nutrients by the body.

Lemongrass oil is used in Ayurvedic massaging for fortifying the nerves, limbs, muscles and tissues. Massaging your body with 6 drops of Lemongrass oil blended with 3 ml of olive oil can assist in treating nervous problems like vertigo, convulsions, Alzheimer’s disease, sluggishness, Parkinson’s disease and nervousness.

4. Eliminates toxic substances in the body:

Stagnation of ama (toxic substances) in the body is one of the primary reason for illnesses according to Ayurveda. The diaphoretic and diuretic properties of Lemongrass Oil increase the frequency and quantity of urination through which the harmful toxins in the body are vented out.

This action also aids in improving digestion, cleansing the kidneys and discharging harmful infection causing foreign bodies. You can add 2 drops of Lemongrass oil in warm bathing water or in foot bath or massage your body with 3 drops of this oil with 2 ml of sesame oil for getting rid of all the toxic substances from your body.

5. Combats cancer cells and supports the digestive system:

A 2009 study on the anticancer activity of Lemongrass essential oil against 12 human cancer cell lines proved that Lemongrass oil “has a promising anticancer activity and causes loss in tumor cell viability by activating the apoptotic process as identified by electron microscopy.” Certain other studies also state that the presence of a-limonene and geraniol showed inhibition of cancer cells in intestinal mucous membrane and liver in mice.

Excess of pitta energy causes cholera, flatulence, intestinal gas and weak digestion. Lemongrass essential oil reduces pitta dosha and normalizes the process of digestion. Gently massaging your abdomen with 2 drops of Lemongrass oil blended with 1 ml of sesame oil will assist in improving digestion. Inhaling the aroma of this oil by applying 1 drop of Lemongrass oil on your wrist or to your hankie can stimulate weak digestion.

6. Treats obesity and depression:

Obesity is a universal problem and excess of kapha dosha causes fluid retention, excess deposits of fat and stagnation of water and other toxic substances in the body. Stress, tension and depression also cause metabolic changes and contribute to obesity. Lemongrass essential oil lessens kapha dosha by decreasing the appetite, removing excess water and fat deposits from the body through urine and sweat.

A study by the Department of Nutritional Sciences of University of Wisconsin studied the effect of Lemongrass and cholesterol in 22 people with high levels of cholesterol where they took 140mg of lemongrass oil capsules daily. This study came up with an amazing result where the cholesterol level was reduced from 310 to 294 on an average basis, which was a significant amount of decrease in the amount of blood fats.

Using 5 drops of Lemongrass oil blended with 2.5 ml of coconut oil as a massage oil or 3 drops of this oil added to warm bathing water can help in discharging excess fat, water and fluid retention in your body and helps you in reducing your excess weight.

In the book ‘Ayurveda and Aromatherapy’, Bryan Miller states that Lemongrass essential oil is an excellent antidepressant oil that can assist in alleviating stress, depression, fatigue, negative feelings, emotional trauma and distress. Using 2 drops of Lemongrass oil in vaporizer, burner or diffuser can assist in driving away negative emotions, insomnia, loneliness, emotional instability, mental stagnation and lack of self-confidence.

The Journal of Ethno pharmacology published a 2011 study, which stated that Lemongrass essential oil possess anti-anxiety properties that would aid in lessening anxiety by stimulating the brain levels of the neurotransmitter gamma-amino butyric acid.

Other health benefits:

Lemongrass essential oil is also a great natural remedy for treating menstrual problems and its galactogogue properties help improve the quality and quantity of breast milk in nursing mothers. It is a trusted insect repellant and can also serve as a natural air freshener with its refreshing aroma.

Disclaimer:

Pure and organic essential oils are highly concentrated liquids so never take them internally. Always remember to dilute essential oils before using it topically. This article is only for the purpose of education and is not meant to diagnose or replace any prescribed medicines or professional advice. Consult your Ayurvedic practitioner before using essential oils that would fit your unique individual constitution and state of health.

The MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet) of Lemongrass oil is readily available for your enhanced safety and optimal usage.

Gas Chromatography Report of Lemongrass essential oil

Thought for the day:

Knowing trees, I understand the meaning of patience. Knowing grass, I can appreciate persistence. 

-Hal Borland

Suggested Reading:

  1. HEALING POWERS OF LEMONGRASS OIL (The Aromatherapy Professional) by KG Stiles
  2. The Encyclopedia of Essential Oils: The Complete Guide to the Use of Aromatic Oils In Aromatherapy, Herbalism, Health, and Well Being by Julia Lawless
  3. Skin Delivery of Lemongrass Oil by Microemulsion Technique: Herbal formulation for Acne Vulgaris by Md Faiyazuddin, Sanjula Baboota
  4. Lemongrass Essential Oils: Biosynthesis and Regulation by Deepak Ganjewala

Reference Links:

  1. Antifungal activity of the lemongrass oil and citral against Candida spp by Silva Cde B, Guterres SS, Weisheimer V, Schapoval EE published in PubMed
  2. Health Benefits of Lemongrass Essential Oil by Organic Facts
  3. Anticancer activity of an essential oil from Cymbopogon flexuosus by Sharma PR, Mondhe DM, Muthiah S, Pal HC, Shahi AK, Saxena AK, Qazi GN, Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine, India published in PubMed
  4. Lemongrass Health Benefits and Healing Properties by PlanetWell Ayurvedic Wellness
  5. Lemongrass Herbal Medicine by Medical Health Guide

Lemon Essential Oil

Lemon-bannerReferred to as ‘Golden Apple’ in the Indian subcontinent, Lemon is a universal remedy for many health disorders and is often called as a panacea for its ability to heal the mind and the body in manifold ways. The essential oil of Lemon is cold pressed from the external rind or peel of the Lemon fruits.

Known as Nimbuka, Jambira and Dantashata in Ayurveda, Lemon is a popular Ayurvedic remedy that is used in medicine, food and also in the process of purification. It is used for stimulating the nervous system, improve concentration power, enhance immunity, purify blood and support digestion.

Lemon and its essential oil is a popular ingredient of many Ayurvedic weight loss remedies and lemon juice taken with lukewarm water in empty stomach in the morning is said to reduce fat deposits and eliminate toxins from the body.

Purchase Lemon Oil – Retail – 4 oz – CLICK HERE

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Historical importance of Lemon and its essential oil:

The real origin of Lemon lies as a mystery and it is said that Lemon is indigenous to India, Myanmar and China. The first historical mark of Lemon was in 90 BC where it was used to shower a high priest in a festival of Jews in Jerusalem though certain sources say that Lemon has been used since 800 BC.

It was introduced to Europe in the 1st century AD during the Roman reign and slowly spread to other parts of the world like Persia, Egypt and Iraq.  It is also said that Lemon was grown as an ornamental plant in the primordial Islamic gardens.

Affluent Victorians grew Lemon trees in their gardens as a symbol of high regard and for garlanding their estates with the naturally refreshing aroma of citrus trees. Serving Lemon wedges along with tea during their tea dances in the afternoon was a popular custom in their tradition.

It was Christopher Columbus who introduced Lemon to America by bringing Lemon seeds to the Island of Haiti during his voyages in 1493. Botanically known as Citrus limon, Lemon is a hybrid of citron and sour orange.

The most notable use of Lemon in the history was its use as a promising protection against scurvy by sailors all over the world. This was endorsed by James Lind, the celebrated Naval Surgeon in his book ‘Treatise on Scurvy’.

Chemical components or Gas Chromatography Report of Lemon essential oil:

According to the Gas chromatography report, Lemon oil constitutes of 5 major chemical components that contribute to its fresh citrusy fragrance, remedial values and distinct quality. Lemon oil is enriched with about 67.6 percent of Limonene constituent.

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For knowing more about the elite information of these top constituents of Lemon essential oil.

The table below on the Gas Chromatography report talks about the primary chemical constituents and its role in granting the therapeutic values and other attributes to Lemon essential oil.

Lemon-OilTherapeutic properties of Lemon essential oil:

The remedial properties of Lemon essential oil are antiviral, antibacterial, immune stimulant, digestive, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, calming, diuretic, expectorant, astringent, anti-anemic, detoxifying, antioxidant, tonic and antidepressant.

Ayurvedic health benefits of Lemon essential oil:

Ayurvedic healing dates back to more than 5000 years and it is the oldest of all medicinal systems on earth.  Lemon has been an important part of Ayurvedic treatments in many forms. The top ways to start a refreshing Ayurvedic life begins with the use of Lemon in lukewarm water as this therapy is said to cleanse the system, clear impurities in the blood and energize the mind and the body.

Human being is a unique creation and Ayurveda adorns the beauty of an individual constitution that differentiates each and every individual with a unique physical and mental setup. This uniqueness is determined by the combination of the three biological energies known as doshas.

They are vata, pitta and kapha. Vata dosha is responsible for blood circulation, creative thinking, metabolic functions and the process of elimination. Pitta energy governs body temperature, digestive fire, leadership skills and perfection. Kapha dosha lies behind the movement of fluids in the body, love and affection and body mass.

Predominance of any one of these doshas determines character, personality and behavioral attributes. Dosha balance contributes to good health and imbalance of doshas indicates illness.

Ayurveda sticks to nature and trusts that natural remedies are the best ways of healing human beings as they are an incredible part of nature. Ayurvedic therapies are unique for every individual and are focused towards treating dosha imbalances.

Ayurvedic remedies are often aimed at treating the five senses of human body. They are the sense of sight, sense of smell, sense of taste, sense of touch and sense of sound. Lemon is by far the best Ayurvedic remedy that has the power to retreat and recharge the four vital senses of the human body.

Lemon and its essential oil is said to pacify kapha and vata energy and aggravate pitta dosha.

Let’s have a look at the Ayurvedic health benefits of Lemon essential oil in the order of the five senses of human beings.Lemon-broucher1. Sense of sight:

The very sight of Lemon gives energy, confidence and inner strength. This is because the bright yellow color of Lemon indicates brilliance, cheerfulness, brightness and sunshine. These are the symbols of potency and real power paving way for improvement in one’s health physically and mentally. Healing through the sense of sight is known as color therapy in Ayurveda.

This holistic healing methodology states that every color has various impacts on the physiological and psychological attributes of mankind. Yellow color of Lemon and its essential oil according to Ayurveda has the power to promote clarity of mind, grants motivation, enhances the energy level, augments communication and instills the power of winning. So the next time, when you are feeling down and depressed, just look at the ‘Golden apple’ (lemon) that has the power to mend your mind to peace and prosperity.

2. Sense of smell:

Aroma plays a vital role in uplifting the body and mind. By inhaling the aroma of Lemon essential oil, the therapeutic molecules in the oil reach the limbic system of the brain through the nasal passages, where limbic system is the body’s control center that controls feelings, emotions and the corresponding behaviors.

The citrusy, fresh, energizing and enlivening aroma of Lemon essential oil spreads positive energy, calms the mind, grants mental clarity, treats anxiety, fatigue, nervous tension, dizziness, improves concentration, instills hopefulness and assists in weight loss when 2 drops of this oil is added to aromatic lamps, diffuser, air freshener, vaporizer or burner.

A 2004 study published in Brain Research stated that Lemon essential oil may contain pain-relieving and anxiety-reducing properties. When used in steam inhalation, Lemon oil aids in opening blocked nasal passages and clear chest congestion. The revivifying fragrance of Lemon oil makes it a favorite flavor in household cleaners, disinfectants, soaps, shampoos and detergents.

3. Sense of taste:

The best way to take Lemon internally is to drink the fresh juice. Ayurvedic therapies like Chardi Nivarana and Kaphotlesha suggests drinking lemon juice during nausea, vomiting, excessive salivation, gastritis, heaviness in the stomach and sluggish bowel movements. This helps in eliminating the excess deposits of kapha in the stomach.

Lemon is also called as Amadoshahara where ama is the toxic substances in the body. Drinking lemon juice is a proven Ayurvedic remedy for eliminating ama, which is a result of indigestion and improper absorption of nutrients.

Drinking lemon juice mixed with warm water and honey in the morning in empty stomach is said to treat obesity by stimulating the bowel movements and burning the excess fat deposits in the body. Lime has diuretic properties and it helps in expelling the excess fluids in the body causing obesity through urine and sweat.

4. Sense of touch:

Ayurvedic massaging or Abhyanga is an important therapy in Ayurveda for healing numerous illnesses and for eliminating the toxic substances from the body. Abhyanga is the art of maneuvering the body with hands, legs, elbows and certain other massaging equipments. The success of an Ayurvedic massage therapy lies in choosing the right massaging technique along with right essential oils that suits your health condition and unique individual constitution.

Treating through the sense of touch means using essential oils and herbal medications on the skin as skin is the best organ through which the therapeutic properties of these natural remedies penetrate deeply into the bloodstream.

(i) As topical application:

Lemon oil is an excellent remedy for treating skin problems like acne, rough skin, dull skin, oily skin, wounds, pigmentation, cold sores, cellulites, warts, varicose veins and sun tan. The antiseptic, disinfectant, astringent, antiviral and soothing properties of this oil assist in rejuvenating and toning the skin naturally by improving blood circulation. Skin care specialist Lia Schorr says that using Lemon oil mixed with glycerin can assist in treating rough patches on the knee, feet, hands and elbows.

Blend 2 drops of Lemon oil with 15 drops of Jojoba oil and apply it topically on pimples, boils, pustules, blackheads and whiteheads. It helps in removing excess oil, eliminate impurities in the skin and clears acne on regular use. You can also apply this blend on cold sores, tanned skin, dull skin and rough skin.

(ii) As Ayurvedic massage oil: Gently massaging your abdomen with 3 drops of Lemon oil mixed with 20 to 25 drops of coconut can help in treating dysentery, intestinal parasites, gas, flatulence, nausea, food poisoning, stomach upset, acidity, cramps and heartburn.

Massaging your chest, throat, foot soles and back with this blend can assist in treating throat infections, tonsillitis, fever, flu, cough and cold. The disinfectant, antiviral and expectorant properties of Lemon oil aid in controlling the growth of viruses responsible for cold, arrests infections and helps expel phlegm and mucous deposits in the body. This is due to the kapha pacifying property of Lemon essential oil.

Gently massaging your scalp with 3 drops of Lemon oil blended with Almond oil can help in controlling dandruff, moisturize the scalp, and augment the strength, volume and shine of your hair with its tonic and stimulating properties.

(iii) As bath oil: 3 to 4 drops of Lemon essential oil added to warm bathing water helps in relaxing your muscles, alleviate stress, lessen depression, promote good sleep, induce peace of mind, wipe away negative feelings, enhance skin health, detoxify the body, cleanse the digestive system and treat respiratory ailments.

(iv) As cold or warm compress: Few drops of Lemon essential oil added to cold or warm compress can help treating acne scars, pain, inflammation, headache, fever, congestion and stomach ache.

5. Partnering with the sense of sound:

Healing through the sense of sound means listening to appeasing music and reciting mantras and slogans that would enrich one’s spiritual values. Add 2 drops of Lemon essential oil to your vaporizer, burner or diffuser during your meditation time or while practicing yoga with the background of soothing instrumental music. This is a simple and an effective remedy for staying refreshed, uplifted and re-energized throughout the day.

Inhaling the invigorating aroma of Lemon essential oil during prayers, chanting mantras or reciting holy books can augment your oneness with the Divine power and pacify your mind and aura simultaneously. Feeling down? Then it’s not a bad idea to listen to motivational tapes with the company of the magical Lemon aroma around you. Add 1 drop of Lemon essential oil to your hanky or wear it on your wrist and you’ll be amazed to see the energy flow from within along with the motivational speech.

Disclaimer:

Never use essential oils internally as pure essential oils are highly concentrated in nature. Dilute it in suitable carrier oils before using them externally. Do not go out in sun as soon as using Lemon oil because this oil has phototoxic effect just like other citrus essential oils and can harm your skin due to the exposure to ultra violet rays.

This article is for educational purpose only and is not intended to replace any expert advice or prescribed medicines. Consult your Ayurvedic practitioner before using the appropriate essential oils for your unique constitution and health condition.

The MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet) of Lemon oil is readily available for your enhanced safety and healthier usage.

Gas Chromatography Report of Lemon essential oil.

Lemon Essential Oil – Possible Skin Issues:

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Greener Life Diamond – Bio-Healthy Score => 3 Possible Skin Issues:

See => http://www.essentialdepot.com/GreenerLifeDiamond.html

Lemon essential oil is witnessed as one among the photosensitizing citrus oils that may cause burning sensation, irritation, hyperpigmentation (discoloration of the skin surface) and other changes due to its effect of stimulating the photosensitivity of the skin, when exposed to visible light from the sun up to 12 hours of use. The primary reason is the reaction of the photoactive chemical components that absorbs light and leads to toxicity via molecular alterations in the skin.

The chief chemical component accountable for the skin sensitizing and other dermal effects of Lemon oil is Limonene and few other furanocoumarins.

Certain studies (like the 1994 study on the ‘Occupation Contact Dermatitis from Citrus fruits’ and a 2006 study on ‘Skin Diseases in Workers at a Perfume factory’) on the adverse skin reactions of using the essential oil of Citrus limon reports few cases, including the incidence of allergic contact dermatitis with the use of Lemon rind oil in the workers of the perfume industry. Patch testing also witnessed certain allergic effects on using Lemon rind oil.

Research reveals that Lemon oil has furocoumarin derivatives like oxypeucedanin and bergapten; however the phototoxic effect of oxypeucedanin was just 1 quarter of that of bergapten. It is also stated that these components are the major cause of concern behind the phototoxicity of Lemon essential oil. This study also states that oxypeucedanin educes photo pigmentation on the skin of colored-guinea-pig prior to visible erythema.

It is also stated that the quantity of these 2 phototoxic components in Lemon oils from various countries differed by about a factor greater than 20 (bergapten, 4-87 ppm; oxypeucedanin, 26-728 ppm (parts per million), with a wavering ratio.

The safe dilution use level of Lemon oil, a potential phototoxic essential oil is 2%, which is about 12 drops per ounce of any carrier oils, according to the International Fragrance Association (IFRA). This applies only for products employed for dermal use to prevent phototoxicity and is not valid for wash-off items like shampoos, soaps and other bath products.

Lemon oil has ‘Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS)’authorization by the FDA (U.S. Food and Drug Administration). As per the European decree, essential oils containing furanocoumarins can be used provided the aggregate level of bergapten does not exceed 15 ppm in cosmetic products that are ready-to-use on the skin, which is prone to be exposed to direct sunlight sans wash-away items and 1 ppm in bronzing and sunscreen products.

On a lighter note, Furocoumarins are also used in remedial practices along with the long-wave ultraviolet light therapy for curing psoriasis, mycosis fungoides and vitiligo.

Reference Links Substantiating the Possible Skin Issues of Lemon Oil:

  1. A study of the phototoxicity of lemon oil by Naganuma M, Hirose S and Nakayama Y, Nakajima K and Someya T, published in the Archives of Dermatological Research and PubMed
  2. Essential Oil Safety: A Guide for Health Care Professionals By Robert Tisserand, Rodney Young
  3. Leung’s Encyclopedia of Common Natural Ingredients, used in Food, Drugs and Cosmetics by Ikhlas A. Khan and Ehab A. Abourashed.
  4. Citrus limon, American Herbal Products Association’s Botanical Safety Handbook, Second Edition by Zoe Gardner, Michael McGuffin
  5. Lemon oil side effects by WebMD
  6. Safety Information on Essential Oils by the National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy

Thought for the day:

When fate hands you a lemon, make lemonade.

– Dale Carnegie

Suggested Reading:

  1. HEALING POWERS OF LEMON OIL (The Aromatherapy Professional: Healing with Essential Oils) by KG Stiles
  2. Lemon: 50 Plus Recipes for Skin Care, Hair Care, Home and Laundry Cleaning along with Lemonade, Vegan, Curd, Chicken, Cookies, Cakes and Desserts by Pamesh Y
  3. How to Use Lemon Essential Oil (Aromatherapy) by Miriam Kinai
  4. Ayurveda & Aromatherapy: The Earth Essential Guide to Ancient Wisdom and Modern Healing by Dr. Light Miller, Dr. Bryan Miller

Reference Links:

  1. 35 Health Benefits of Lemon – Ayurveda Details by Dr JV Hebbar MD (Ayu) in Easy Ayurveda
  2. Lemon by Wikipedia
  3. Health Benefits of Lemon Essential Oil by Alternative Medicine, About.Com
  4. The Benefits of Lemon Oil on Skin by Livestrong.Com


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