Lemon
This tree produces one of the most popular citrus fruits that is used for cooking, baking and so much more. The leaves is glossy on the topside and matte on their underside.
Tree. H:3-6m W:2-3m. 12cm, 17cm.
In the garden
Growth Characteristics:
• Tree, Evergreen, Frost toleran.
Height:
•± 3-6m; Spread: ± 2-3m.
Cultivation:
• Full sun; Well drained, composted soil.
Harvesting:
• Pick fruit when available.
Culinary use
Use Lemon juice and grated peel (zest) in:
• Fish, Chicken,
• Salad dressing, Marinades,
• Lemonade and other soft drinks, Ice cream, Sorbets, Desserts, Marmalades, Biscuits, Cake icing, Fudge, Batters,
• Sliced lemons are a garnish for drinks, fish, seafood,
• A few leaves in Bobotie,.
Fragrance
• Add the skin to potpourri, herb pillows, soaps and perfumes,
• Use in Herbal Bath Smoothies,
• Use dried lemon peel as a fixative in potpourris,
• Use the juice for cleaning brass, silver, marble and rust stains.
Cosmetic use
• Lemon has a reputation for clearing greasy skin and smoothing wrinkles, as well as having mildly antiseptic qualities.
Health benefits
Lemon may be beneficial in the following cases:
General
• Rich in Vitamin C.
Metabolism
• Tonic.
Skin
• Skin disorders, Shingles, Eczema, - topical and internal,
• Astringent - restores the skin's natural acid balance.
Lymphatic System
• Lemon rind contains citrus flavonoids that are antihistaminic,
• Lemon juice and zest - Natural antimicrobial.
Respiratory System
• Soothes colds, influenza, coughs, sore throats, fever.
Cardiovascular System
• Lemon rind contains citrus flavonoids that improve varicose veins.
Liver
• Beneficial for liver and gallbladder function.
Digestive system
• Haemorrhoids.
Urinary System
• Kidney stones.
Preparation and dosage:
FRESH JUICE:
• Squeeze out fresh juice and dilute with equal quantity water. Use this to gargle and drink internaly. Water can be substituted with a herbal infusion if used in combination with other herbs.
• Topically no dilution is required. It can be mixed with other herbal infusions as required.