Lemons are a great ingredient to have in the kitchen for culinary or Beauty uses. They have many health benefits and can aid in maintaining healthy skin and Hair. It is rich in vitamin C and can improve the appearance and condition of the skin. This good source of Vitamin C boosts collagen production restoring elasticity, allowing rejuvenation for a more youthful and radiant skin.
Lemon contains antibacterial properties which can kill the bacteria responsible for acne and can aid and help with the scars. Half a teaspoon of lemon juice and rose water in equal parts can be applied on the skin by using a cotton wool ball then rinse after five minutes.
Another home remedy is to add honey onto a slice of lemon and rub on the face and neck. Leave for ten minutes and rinse with lukewarm water. This method can be repeated once or twice a week.
Benefits for the hair
Hair can benefit from the use of Lemons as it is a conditioner, aids hair growth and also helps to lighten the colour. Take a half the juice of a freshly squeezed lemon, massage on hair and scalp, then leave for 5-10 minutes. Wash with a mild shampoo. A lemon oil concoction can help to grow hair when added to a warm castor and olive oil mixture. Add three drops of this lemon oil, apply to hair and scalp and leave overnight. Next morning wash off with a good herbal shampoo.
A fresh lemon juice hair mask can be ideal to add moisture if mixed with extra virgin olive oil and an egg.
The juice of half a lemon can be used and can be applied and left to dry, after allowing time for it absorb into the hair follicles, wash with clean water. Once or twice a month can be best when using this remedy.
To lighten hair, add water and using a spray bottle apply to damp hair. Results are even better on unwashed hair, air dry in the sun.
Add oil to the mixture, to prevent the hair from drying out. After five minutes wash out.
Morning detox
As a morning detoxifying drink, freshly squeezed lemon with warm water and honey is ideal, it contains few calories and is rich in nutrients such as calcium and potassium. As well as being good for the immune system by protecting from infection, it can balance pH.
One precaution is to rinse with water afterwards as lemon can be abrasive to teeth enamel.
Another precaution is to use fresh lemon juice as it has fewer preservatives. It is acidic therefore use in moderation, and ten minutes is the maximum time it should be in contact with skin and hair as it is a bleaching agent.
The versatility of lemons make it a good and convenient ingredient to have, and these are just a few uses for this inexpensive product making it a cheap and effective beauty essential.
