Exclusive Guide to Lemon Essential Oil
Citrus Limon
Origin: Spain
Distilled part: Zest of the fruit
Extraction method: Cold pressing
Cultivation: Certified Organic farming
Botanically and Biochemically Defined Essential Oil (HEBBD), chemotyped (HECT)
Color: Pale yellow to green
Scent: Characteristic of lemon zest
Note: Top note
Plant Family: Rutaceae
SUPER POWERS
Antibacterial
- kills bacterial growth or prevents bacteria from growing
Antifungal
- prevents or kills fungus growth
Anti-infectious
- prevents or treats an infection
Antirheumatic
- alleviating or preventing rheumatism
Antiseptic
- prevents or combats bacterial infection
Antispasmodic
- prevents or relieves spasms
Antiviral
- kills or inhibits the growth of viruses
Astringent
- tightens the tissues, reduces fluid loss
Calmative
- sedative calming effect
Carminative
- preventsor relieves flatulence; gas in the gastrointestinal tract
Cicatrizing
- heals a wound by the formation of scar tissue
Depurative
- cleanses and removes impurities and toxins from the blood; purifies the blood
Diaphoretic/sudorific
- helps to promote perspiration
Digestive
- improves the function of the stomach, increases appetite, and helps with digestion
Diuretic
- helps to increase the production of urine
Febrifuge
- reduces fever
Hypotensive
- lowering the blood pressure
Insect repellent
Stimulant
- increases alertness of the mind, and boosts energy. Raises levels of physiological or nervous activity in the body
Tonic
- refreshes, revitalizes and invigorates body functions
Vermifuge
- expels worms from the intestines
USAGE TIPS
Focus & Concentration
Diffuse 5 drops of lemon essential oil in your office or study space to enhance mental clarity and concentration.
Sanitize your Toilet
Add 5 drops of lemon essential oil pluss 2 tablespoons (10ml) baking soda to your toilet bowl.
Shiny clean windows
Mix 50% water with 50% white vinegar and add 10-20 drops of lemon essential oil into a spray bottle. Shake well before using. Spray and wipe clean. Enjoy the advantage of using a chemical- and alcohol-free cleaner, so you're not inhaling chemicals.
Get rid of nail fungus
Apply 2-3 drops of diluted lemon essential oil to the nail several times a day. (Dilute: 10ml jojoba oil + 8 drops Lemon essential oil) Have patience, it may take some weeks to fully clear up.
Treating minor wounds
Fill a bowl with 90 ml of clean warm water, add 5 drops of lemon essential oil. Use a sterilized cloth dipped in the mixture to gently wipe the wound until it's clean.
Relives congestion
Relives congestion and eliminates mucus. It can help to slow a runny nose and reduce the symptoms of allergies. Inhale lemon oil directly from the bottle.
Effective for cleaning
Effective for cleaning multiple surfaces. Disinfect and degrease your home, car or office with lemon oil. Add it to a spray bottle of water, shake and clean tables, countertops and other surfaces. 20 drops in 500ml of water.
Great furniture polish
Add a few drops of lemon oil to olive oil to clean, protect and shine wood.
Toothbrush germ free
Keep your toothbrush germ free by using one drop of lemon essential oil on your toothbrush and twirling it in a bit of water to sanitize. Rinse well under running water.
Food
Food flavoring (FEMA n°: 2625 / CoE n°: 139a)
Food dosage: 4 drops in a dish for 5 people (never exceed 2%)
Always use essential oil diluted in a suitable medium (example: vegetable oil, honey, etc.)
Remove sticky residue from surfaces.
Whether it's leftover adhesive from labels, tape, or stickers, lemon oil works wonders in breaking down sticky substances without the need for harsh chemicals.
How to Use:
- Apply a few drops of lemon oil directly to the sticky area.
- Let it sit for a minute or two to allow the oil to penetrate and dissolve the residue.
- Gently rub with a cloth or your finger to lift the sticky material.
- Wipe clean with a damp cloth to remove any excess oil and residue.
This method is not only effective but also leaves behind a fresh, citrusy scent. Plus, lemon oil is a natural, non-toxic alternative to chemical adhesive removers, making it a great choice for households with kids, pets, or those sensitive to synthetic products.
Method of use & Amount to use
Aroma diffusers
Use 5-15 drops in your diffuser or the amount suggested with your diffuser.
Baths, Hot tubs, Jacuzzis
Bath: Diluted 3-8 drops
Start by running your bath as you normally would and keep the bathroom door closed to retain the aroma. Essential oils can be applied directly in their concentrated form or diluted.
For dilution, use a carrier oil, milk, milk powder, vegetable glycerin, seaweed powder, herbal powder, baking soda, salt, or Epsom salts to prevent skin sensitivity.
Add the essential oil to the bathwater, either neat or diluted, then stir the water with your hand to disperse the oil evenly before entering the tub. This method helps distribute the essential oil throughout the bath for a more enjoyable experience.
Hot tubs & Jacuzzis: up to 8 drops
Mix the essential oil into the water thoroughly using your hand. Since essential oils do not dissolve in water, they may leave residues in or around your pipes.
Compresses
3-10 drops in 120 ml of water
Learn more
Face masks, oils, and tonic
Face masks: 1 or 2 drops per 2 tbs. (15ml) of natural facemask.
Face oils: 12 drops in 30ml of carrier oil. For elderly and children use 6 drops per 30ml of carrier oil.
Use a dark-colored glass bottle, which helps protect your oils from light degradation. First, pour in the carrier oil. If you’re using a single essential oil or a premixed blend, add it directly to the carrier oil. If you’re crafting your own unique blend, mix your essential oils together first, then integrate the desired number of drops into the carrier oil. Remember, a little goes a long way, so only use a small amount for each application. Click here to read more about which carrier oil to choose.
Face tonic: 8-15 drops in 100ml of spring or distilled water or hydrosol.
Combine the oil and water before filtering through an unbleached paper coffee filter.
Our 100% organic and natural hydrosols can be used directly as a tonic. Shut your eyes and spray your face. Or spray a cotton pad and wipe your face with it.
Inhalation from bowl
3-5 drops per bowl of steaming hot water.
To use essential oils in steam inhalation, start by bringing a pot of water to a boil and then removing it from the heat. Add a few drops (typically 3-5 drops) of your chosen essential oil to the hot water.
Carefully lean over the pot, drape a towel over your head and the pot to trap the steam, and breathe deeply for several minutes to inhale the aromatic vapors, which can help relieve nasal congestion and other respiratory issues.
Lotions & Creams
12 drops to each 30 ml of natural, unfragranced lotion or cream.
You can make your own face cream with our neutral face cream as a base. For a 2% (adults) dilution use 40 drops in this 100 ml cream base.
For elderly and children use 20 drops (1%) in 100ml of cream.
Massage oil (for body)
12 drops to each 30 ml of carrier oil.
For elderly and children use 6 drops per 30ml of carrier oil.
Pillows
Place 1-3 drops of essential oil on the corner or underside of a pillow away from the eyes.
Room sprays
As room purifier: 10-20 drops per 475 ml of water.
As a general fragrance: 8-10 drops per 475 ml of water.
Scalp treatments
Add 6 drops in 15 ml of Jojoba oil or aloe vera gel. Shake well. Use 2-3 drops of your prepared blend for each application. Massage into your scalp. Alternatively, simply add the essential oil to a bottle of final rinse water after washing the hair.
Shampoos
5-10 drops in 100ml.
Essential oils can be added to any unscented shampoo that is composed of organic natural ingredients.
Showers
1-5 drops.
First, complete your usual washing routine. After that, apply a few drops of essential oil onto a washcloth or sponge and briskly rub it over your body while standing under the shower's running water. Inhale deeply through your nose to enjoy the aromatic steam, being careful to avoid applying the oil on your face and sensitive areas.
Sprays & Mists for Face and Body
For body: 10-20 drops to each 475 ml of water or hydrosol.
For face: 2-5 drops to each 240 ml of water or hydrosol.
Add the essential oil to warm water or hydrosol. Shake thoroughly, pour through an unbleached paper coffee filter, and place in a spray bottle. Cool before using.
Shake before each use.
Keep eyes closed when spraying the face.
Washes
15-32 drops in 240 ml of warm water.
A wash is a prepared mixture for washing infected areas such as cuts, grazes, and wounds.
Mix the essential oils and water together in a bottle and shake well. Keep it stored in the fridge for no longer than 14 days. Shake before each use.
Aromatherapy's top notes:
Aromas categorized as top notes are typically fresh and light with a sharp scent. They evaporate very quickly and possess antiseptic properties. These qualities make them uplifting for the mood and emotions, ideal for times when you need a quick energy boost. Top notes are also excellent for purification, such as when you're dealing with a cold. Consider each oil's unique properties when selecting which ones to use in a blend.
Examples of typical top notes include:
Citrus oils:
- Bergamot
- Grapefruit
- Orange
- Mandarin
- Neroli
- Petitgrain
Mint oils:
- Peppermint
- Spearmint
Fresh woody oils:
- Eucalyptus
- Tea Tree
- Pine
These top notes are perfect for enhancing your blends with their vibrant and cleansing effects.
Understand the Notes of Scents
In aromatherapy, the scent of an oil is often referred to as a "note." The secret behind a truly great fragrance is finding the perfect balance between the notes. Aromatherapy is about scents, and with practice, you will be able to recognize an oil's fragrance even if you might not know which plant the oil comes from. For example, you will be able to distinguish between citrus and floral scents or woody and minty fragrances. The scent is determined by the chemicals an oil contains. Because oils that smell alike often contain the same chemicals, they typically have similar properties.
Oils are categorized into so-called base, middle, and top notes. Knowing an oil's note is important when blending oils. A good blend—like most perfumes—normally contains a mix of all three notes, where the ratio between them varies depending on what the blend is used for. Additionally, an oil can contain more than one note—for example, ylang-ylang contains traces of all three notes and is often considered the perfect fragrance.
When creating a new fragrance, whether it's for a perfume or an aroma diffuser, you should use between 4-7 oils per blend. First, decide what type of blend you want to create, such as a refreshing one, and then choose notes with these characteristics to make up the main content of the blend. Dissolve the mixture in a carrier oil if you want to use it on the skin (12 drops in 30 ml of carrier oil).
| Blend | Top note | Middle note | Base note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Refreshing | 5 drops | 4 drops | 1 drop |
| Relaxing | 1 drop | 6 drops | 3 drops |
| Sensual | 1 drop | 4 drops | 5 drops |
| Balancing | 2 drops | 5 drops | 3 drops |
| Energizing | 8 drops | 1 drop | 1 drop |
RUTACEAE PLANT FAMILY
The Rutaceae family, commonly known as the citrus or rue family, is a large and diverse family of flowering plants. This family is of significant economic and botanical importance due to its members' aromatic properties, which are widely used in culinary, medicinal, and aromatic applications.
Key Characteristics
Aromatic Compounds:
One of the most defining features of the Rutaceae family is the presence of essential oils within the plants' glands, especially in the leaves and fruit peels. These oils are rich in volatile compounds that give many Rutaceae plants their distinctive, often citrusy aroma.
Leaves:
The leaves of Rutaceae plants are usually rich in essential oils and are often dotted with oil glands. They can be simple or compound, and in many species, they release a strong fragrance when crushed.
Flowers:
Rutaceae flowers are typically small to medium-sized and can be quite fragrant. They often have four or five petals, and the flowers are usually arranged in clusters. The blossoms can be white or colorful, depending on the species.
Fruits:
The fruits of the Rutaceae family are varied but include some of the most well-known citrus fruits like lemons, oranges, limes, and grapefruits. These fruits often have a thick, aromatic rind and are rich in vitamin C and other beneficial compounds.
Notable Genera and Species
Citrus:
This is perhaps the most famous genus within the Rutaceae family, encompassing species like lemon (Citrus limon), orange (Citrus sinensis), lime (Citrus aurantiifolia), and grapefruit (Citrus paradisi). These fruits are globally consumed and are prized for their flavor, fragrance, and nutritional value.
Ruta:
The genus Ruta includes the herb rue (Ruta graveolens), which has a long history of use in traditional medicine and as a culinary herb. However, rue is also known for its toxicity in large amounts and should be used with caution.
Murraya:
This genus includes the curry tree (Murraya koenigii), whose leaves are a staple in Indian cuisine. The leaves are used to add flavor to a variety of dishes.
Zanthoxylum:
Known as the genus of prickly ash or Sichuan pepper, Zanthoxylum includes species that produce the famous numbing spice used in Chinese cuisine.
Uses and Applications
Culinary: Many members of the Rutaceae family produce fruits that are vital in global cuisine. Citrus fruits are used in countless recipes, from drinks and desserts to savory dishes.
Medicinal: Several Rutaceae plants have been used in traditional medicine. Citrus fruits are rich in vitamin C and flavonoids, making them valuable for immune support and antioxidant properties. Other members, like the rue herb, have been used for various medicinal purposes, though with caution due to potential toxicity.
Aromatherapy: Essential oils derived from Rutaceae plants, particularly citrus oils like lemon, orange, and bergamot, are widely used in aromatherapy. They are known for their uplifting, refreshing, and cleansing properties.
Ornamental: Some Rutaceae species are also grown as ornamental plants due to their attractive foliage and fragrant flowers.
Ecological Importance
Rutaceae plants play a vital role in their ecosystems. They provide food and habitat for various insects, birds, and other wildlife. The flowers of many Rutaceae species attract pollinators, which are crucial for the reproduction of these plants.
Other Examples of Essential Oils
from the Rutaceae Plant Family
In addition to lemon essential oil, the Rutaceae family includes several other essential oils that are widely used in aromatherapy, perfumery, and natural health practices. Here are some notable examples:
1. Orange (Citrus sinensis)
Aroma: Sweet, fruity, and uplifting.
Uses: Orange essential oil is popular for its mood-enhancing and calming effects. It is often used in blends to reduce stress, promote relaxation, and add a cheerful note to the environment.
2. Bergamot (Citrus bergamia)
Aroma: Fresh, citrusy with a slight floral note.
Uses: Bergamot oil is known for its calming and balancing properties. It is commonly used to reduce anxiety, uplift mood, and is a key ingredient in Earl Grey tea for its distinctive flavor.
3. Grapefruit (Citrus paradisi)
Aroma: Bright, tangy, and slightly bitter.
Uses: Grapefruit oil is invigorating and is often used to promote feelings of energy and vitality. It is also popular in blends for detoxification and weight management.
4. Lime (Citrus aurantiifolia)
Aroma: Sharp, zesty, and refreshing.
Uses: Lime essential oil is known for its uplifting and revitalizing effects. It is frequently used in aromatherapy to boost mood and concentration.
5. Petitgrain (Citrus aurantium)
Aroma: Woody, floral, with a hint of citrus.
Uses: Extracted from the leaves and twigs of the bitter orange tree, petitgrain oil is often used for its calming and relaxing properties, making it ideal for reducing anxiety and promoting restful sleep.
6. Neroli (Citrus aurantium var. amara)
Aroma: Sweet, floral, and citrusy.
Uses: Neroli oil, derived from the blossoms of the bitter orange tree, is renowned for its soothing and emotionally balancing properties. It is also prized in skincare for its rejuvenating effects on the skin.
7. Mandarin (Citrus reticulata)
Aroma: Sweet, tangy, and fruity.
Uses: Mandarin oil is gentle and calming, often used in blends to soothe nervous tension and anxiety. It is also beneficial for digestive support and promoting restful sleep, especially in children.
8. Bitter Orange (Citrus aurantium)
Aroma: Fresh, bitter, and slightly spicy.
Uses: Bitter orange oil is energizing and is commonly used to enhance mood and focus. It is also used in natural cleaning products due to its strong antimicrobial properties.
9. Yuzu (Citrus junos)
Aroma: Fresh, tart, and slightly sweet.
Uses: Yuzu oil is uplifting and refreshing, often used in aromatherapy to reduce stress and enhance relaxation. It is also popular in Japan for bathing rituals due to its invigorating scent.
The Rutaceae family is a remarkable group of plants that contribute significantly to human well-being and the environment. Whether through the zesty flavor of citrus fruits, the therapeutic properties of essential oils, or the ornamental beauty of their flowers, Rutaceae plants have a profound and far-reaching impact.
Lemon Blends Well With These Essential Oils
Bay laurel, black pepper, cananga, cedarwood, chamomile maroc, chamomile roman, cinnamon leaf, cistus, clary sage, coriander seed, cypress, eucalyptus lemon, eucalyptus peppermint, fennel, frankincense, galbanum, geranium, grapefruit, helichrysum, lavender, peppermint, eucalyptus, tea tree, rosemary, bergamot, ginger, frankincense, oregano, orange sweet, ravintsara, thyme linalol, and ylang ylang.
The Main Chemical Composition of Lemon Essential Oil
Lemon essential oil is composed of several key chemical constituents that contribute to its therapeutic properties. The main components include:
Limonene: Known for its uplifting citrus scent, limonene is a powerful antioxidant with mood-enhancing and immune-boosting properties.
Beta-Pinene: This component has anti-inflammatory and bronchodilator effects, making it beneficial for respiratory support and reducing inflammation.
Gamma-Terpinene: It offers strong antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, helping to protect the body against oxidative stress and infections.
Citral (Neral and Geranial): Citral is valued for its potent antimicrobial and antifungal effects, as well as its ability to promote relaxation and reduce stress.
Linalool: Linalool has calming and sedative properties, contributing to stress relief and improving sleep quality.
Terpineol: This compound has soothing, antiseptic, and anti-inflammatory properties, making it useful in skincare and for respiratory health.
What is a Chemotype in Essential Oils?
Chemotypes in essential oils refer to the different chemical compositions that can occur in the same plant species due to variations in their growing conditions, harvest times, or geographical locations. These variations lead to the production of essential oils with distinct chemical profiles, each possessing unique therapeutic properties. Understanding chemotypes is crucial for aromatherapy and medicinal applications, as the efficacy and safety of the oils can vary significantly based on their chemical makeup.
Here's a breakdown of what defines a chemotype and why it matters:
1. Genetic and Environmental Influences: A chemotype is often influenced by the plant's environment, such as altitude, climate, and soil composition, as well as genetic factors. These variables can affect which chemical compounds are predominant in the oil.
2. Chemical Composition: Each chemotype of an essential oil will have a dominant chemical compound or set of compounds that characterize it. For example, Rosemary essential oil can be found in several chemotypes, such as cineole, camphor, and verbenone, each named after its principal component, which dictates its therapeutic properties and uses.
3. Therapeutic Properties: The presence of different chemical compounds means that each chemotype can be more effective for different health concerns. For instance, the cineole chemotype of Rosemary is excellent for respiratory issues due to its expectorant properties, whereas the camphor chemotype is more suited for pain relief and circulatory problems.
4. Safety and Application: Some chemotypes may be safer or more appropriate for certain applications than others. For example, an essential oil chemotype high in ketones might be more neurotoxic and thus used with more caution, particularly around children or pregnant women.
Understanding chemotypes allows us to choose the most appropriate and effective essential oil for specific therapeutic outcomes, ensuring both safety and efficacy in their applications.
Lemon is Safe to Diffuse around Dogs
Pet Safe
If you have dogs in the house, these are the recommendations on how to diffuse your essential oils in a safe way: only use 3-4 drops of a particular essential oil in a water based aroma diffuser (UltraSonic).
Use no more than 4-6 drops total if using more than one essential oil, or use the amount in the diffuser recipes.
Be sure your aroma diffuser is in an area where your pet cannot knock it over. Always diffuse in an open area with the door open so your dog can leave the room if desired.
If your dog is sensitive to an oil you are diffusing, stop diffusing and get your dog outside for some fresh air. Contact your veterinarian if you are concerned.
Storage
Essential oils are sensitive to UV: always keep them in their original bottles (amber glass with codigoutte).
We advise you to store them in a cool place without light after opening.
For your mixtures, cosmetic and culinary preparations, always use a new bottle to avoid interactions.
Disclaimer
This information is intended to educate and inform, and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease. It is always recommended to consult with a healthcare professional or veterinarian before starting any regime with Essential Oils.
