7 Health Benefits Of Placing Sliced Lemons By Your Bedside

Like other citrus fruits, lemon is well known for its fresh, clean, and cutting scent and yet sweet scent. That is why the citrus-y scent is commonly incorporated into many perfumes and cleaning products.

But did you know that the aroman from a cut lemon can be beneficial to your health? This is attributed to limonene, an essential oil found in lemons, and which is known to provide numerous health benefits.

Here are a few of those benefits:

1. Cleanse The Atmosphere

The limonene contained in lemon rinds can effectively kill bacteria that cause strep, staph and pneumonia. It inhibits their growth and prevents them from adhering to or accumulating on surfaces. Limonene can also be used to ease breathing problems associated with asthma, the common cold, or allergies.

2. Act As Natural Insect Repellent

The pungent scent from lemon can ward off insects and best of all, it is natural! Most insect repellents contain DEET, which has been found to be toxic to human health. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, utmost care must be taken to avoid inhaling DEET.

3. Eases Anxiety And Stress

The citrus-y scent of lemons is commonly exploited in aromatherapy because of its ability to alleviate stress and lower anxiety. This is by means of activating an adenosine A(2A) receptor on cell membranes. Lack of activation of these receptors is frequently associated with insomnia, anxiety, and impaired dopamine transmission.

4. Prevents Asthma

A study reports that inhaling limonene stopped asthma reactions and reduced inflammation. In addition, this essential oil can attach to extra electrons and deplete ozone molecules.

5. Promotes Cognitive Performance

Researchers have discovered that inhaling lemon can modulate both the mood and cognitive performance of individuals in a dose- and time-dependent manner.

6. Can Effectively Remove Bad Odors

You don't need artificial chemicals to get rid of the bad odors that may be lingering around different parts of your home. All you need is a slice of lemon or even better, lemon essential oil.

7. Reduces Blood Pressure

The calming effect that accompanies inhaling lemons or its essential oil can effectively lower blood pressure and promote relaxation.

There you have 8 new reasons to buy more lemons! However, a golden tip when it comes to using lemon for its aromatherapy benefits, is buying lemon essential oils instead. This can be applied in numerous ways but most importantly, it contains limonene in concentrated amounts and is therefore very effective and lasts much longer!