doTERRA essential oils provide versatile, natural solutions to help elevate and simplify your daily routine. In this article, dōTERRA Wellness Advocate and Scientific and Medical Education Committee member Dr. Ashley Anderson, helps explain why Lemon essential oil is a great addition to your wellness regime.
As one of the most popular and widely used essential oils, doTERRA Lemon essential oil offers a wide range of practical benefits. Extracted from the rinds of fresh lemons, this pure, potent essential oil is prized for its refreshing aroma and diverse health and household uses.
Lemon essential oil is composed of a complex blend of naturally occurring organic compounds, including limonene, alpha-pinene, beta-pinene, gamma-terpinene, and citral. These phytochemicals give lemon oil its distinct citrus scent and contribute to its diverse properties.
Limonene, which makes up the majority of Lemon oil, is a powerful antioxidant with demonstrated immune-boosting effects when consumed.* Alpha-pinene and beta-pinene are also notable for their surface-cleansing properties. Citral, another key compound, may promote healthy cellular function and promote healthy metabolism when used internally based on preclinical studies.* As you can see, the natural chemical makeup of doTERRA Lemon essential oil makes it such a versatile and multifaceted oil.
Given its rich phytochemical profile, Lemon essential oil has a wide range of applications. Some of the most common uses include:
Immune Support: Lemon oil's antioxidant properties make it a valuable tool for supporting immune function.* Taking it internally can help promote overall wellness. One easy way to use Lemon internally is to add 2 drops of it to your water each day.
Digestive Aid: The citral in Lemon essential oil has been shown to stimulate digestive enzymes and bile production, helping to support healthy digestion and alleviate issues like occasional indigestion, bloating, and constipation. Adding a few drops to water or tea can soothe the gut.*
Natural Detoxification: Lemon essential oil contains high concentrations of the monoterpene compound limonene, which has been shown to have antioxidant and detoxification properties. Studies suggest that limonene can stimulate the production of glutathione, a crucial antioxidant that helps the liver and other organs process and eliminate toxins from the body. Add Lemon essential oil to your water daily to support the body's natural detoxification processes.*
Aroma: The uplifting, refreshing aroma of Lemon essential oil can have a positive effect on your day. Diffusing or inhaling Lemon essential oil is an easy way to enjoy its bright, citrusy scent.
Cleaning and Deodorizing: Lemon essential oil's powerful cleaning and deodorizing properties make it a versatile household product. Its grease-cutting abilities make it effective for cleaning surfaces, floors, dishes, and laundry. Adding a few drops to a spray bottle with distilled water and white vinegar creates a natural all-purpose cleaner. Lemon essential oil can also be used to eliminate odors in the home, car, or anywhere unpleasant smells linger. Try dropping 2 drops of Lemon essential oil in the drains of the kitchen sink to refresh your kitchen after washing dishes. Use 1-3 drops of Lemon essential oil to remove sticky residue from any surface.
Skin and Hair Care: Lemon essential oil's astringent and exfoliating properties make it beneficial for skin care. It can be used to treat skin eruptions, balance oily skin, and minimize the appearance of blemishes and age spots. Diluted in a carrier oil, Lemon essential oil also makes an effective natural hair rinse to clarify the scalp and add shine.
While Lemon essential oil is generally considered safe for topical and aromatic use, it is important to take certain precautions. Lemon essential oil is phototoxic, meaning it can increase skin's sensitivity to UV radiation, so it should be avoided before sun exposure. Proper dilution in a carrier oil is also recommended for topical application.
With its potent phytochemical profile and versatile applications, doTERRA Lemon essential oil is a valuable addition to any natural wellness regimen. Whether used for cleaning, personal care, aromatherapy, or internal support, this vibrant citrus oil offers a wide range of benefits backed by scientific evidence.
