Citrus limon(Rutaceae) - Lemon

Citrus limon (Lemon)

1. Scientific name and Basic Taxonomic classification

Species: Citrus limon

Family: Rutaceae

Genus: Citrus

Related Herbs from the same family:

• Aegle marmelos (Bael, Bilva): Revered in Ayurveda, its unripe fruit is a powerful astringent used for diarrhea and dysentery, while the ripe fruit is a digestive tonic. The leaves and roots are also used in worship and medicine.

• Citrus aurantifolia (Key Lime, Nimbu): Shares many properties with the lemon but is considered more cooling in Ayurveda. It is a key source of vitamin C and is used for similar digestive and respiratory conditions.

• Ruta graveolens (Rue, Sadapaka): A potent herb used in traditional medicine for its antispasmodic, anti-inflammatory, and emmenagogue properties, but it must be used with caution due to toxicity.

The Rutaceae family, often called the rue or citrus family, is known for its aromatic plants, often containing volatile oils and a variety of alkaloids and coumarins with significant biological activity.

2. Common names

Scientific Name: Citrus limon | English: Lemon | Sanskrit: Jambira, Nimbuka | Hindi: Nimbu, Kagzi Nimbu | Tamil: Elumichai | Telugu: Nimma | Kannada: Nimbe | Malayalam: Cherunarakam | Marathi: Limbu | Bengali: Lebu | Sinhala: Dehi | Spanish: Limón | French: Citron |

3. Medicinal Uses:Digestive Stimulant, Carminative, Antiscorbutic (prevents scurvy), Antioxidant, Antimicrobial, Expectorant, Refrigerant (cooling), Diuretic.

Medicinal Parts:The fruit (juice, pulp, and rind) is the primary part used. The leaves and essential oil are also used in various traditions.

4. Phytochemicals specific to the plant and their action.

• Citric Acid: The primary organic acid. Its actions are as a Digestive Stimulant and Antioxidant. It helps in the absorption of minerals and is a key component in the Krebs cycle for energy production.

• Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C): A powerful water-soluble antioxidant. Its primary action is Antiscorbutic, Immunomodulatory, and Antioxidant, crucial for collagen synthesis and immune function.

• Flavonoids (Hesperidin, Eriocitrin, Diosmin): Bioactive compounds concentrated in the peel and pulp. Their actions are Antioxidant, Anti-inflammatory, and they improve Vascular Health by strengthening capillaries.

• Volatile Oil (Limonene, Pinene, etc.): Found in the peel. Their actions are Carminative, Antimicrobial, and mood-enhancing.

• Potassium and Citrates: Contribute to its Alkalizing and Diuretic effect in the body, helping to flush out toxins and support kidney function.

5. Traditional and Ethnobotanical uses covering the Medicinal uses.

Agni Mandya (Weak Digestion) & Aruchi (Anorexia)

• Formulation: Fresh lemon juice.

• Preparation & Use: A teaspoon of lemon juice with a pinch of rock salt (Sendha Namak) and ginger is taken 15 minutes before meals to stimulate the digestive fire (Agni).

• Reasoning: The sour taste (Amla Rasa) and citric acid stimulate saliva and gastric acid secretion, acting as a potent digestive stimulant (Deepana).

Jwara (Fever) & Daha (Burning Sensation)

• Formulation: Lemon water with honey.

• Preparation & Use: Juice of half a lemon mixed in a glass of cool water with a teaspoon of honey is consumed to reduce fever and internal heat.

• Reasoning: Its cooling (Sheeta) potency and refrigerant property help pacify Pitta dosha, which is aggravated in fever and burning conditions. Vitamin C also supports the immune system.

Kasa (Cough) & Kanthasada (Hoarseness of Voice)

• Formulation: Warm water with lemon and honey.

• Preparation & Use: A classic remedy for sore throat and cough. The warm liquid soothes the throat, while lemon cuts through mucus and honey provides a demulcent coating.

• Reasoning: The antimicrobial properties of both lemon and honey, combined with the expectorant action of lemon, help clear respiratory congestion.

Scurvy (Vitamin C Deficiency)

• Formulation: Fresh lemon juice.

• Preparation & Use: Regular consumption of lemon juice, either in water or as part of the diet, was historically used by sailors to prevent and treat scurvy.

• Reasoning: Its high concentration of Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C) directly corrects the deficiency, which is essential for collagen formation and preventing the symptoms of scurvy.

6. Healing recipes, Teas, Decoctions and Culinary use:

Lemon is a ubiquitous culinary ingredient, used in dressings, marinades, beverages, and desserts.

Agni Deepana Aruchi Nashak (Digestive Stimulant)

• Purpose: To kickstart digestion and relieve loss of appetite.

• Preparation & Use:

  • Mix 1 tsp fresh lemon juice, a pinch of rock salt, and a pinch of ginger powder in a small cup of warm water.

  • Drink 15-20 minutes before lunch or dinner.

Pitta Shamak Jwara Har Kwath (Fever Reducing Decoction)

• Purpose: To reduce fever and burning sensations.

• Preparation & Use:

  • Boil 1/2 teaspoon of coriander seeds in one cup of water for 5 minutes.

  • Let it cool slightly, then strain and add the juice of half a lemon and a teaspoon of honey.

  • Sip 2-3 times a day during a fever.

Kasa Swasa Har Kadhha (Cough & Cold Remedy)

• Purpose: To relieve congestive cough and sore throat.

• Preparation & Use:

  • Mix the juice of one lemon and one tablespoon of honey in a cup of warm water.

  • Drink this 2-3 times a day.

  • For a stronger version, add a pinch of black pepper and turmeric.

Detoxifying Morning Tonic

• Purpose: To cleanse the system, act as a mild diuretic, and alkalize the body.

• Preparation & Use:

  • Squeeze the juice of half a lemon into a large glass of warm or room-temperature water.

  • Drink first thing in the morning on an empty stomach.

7. Disclaimer:The lemon fruit is generally safe for culinary and medicinal use. However, due to its high acidity, undiluted lemon juice can erode tooth enamel; it is advised to rinse the mouth with water after consumption. Topical application can make skin photosensitive. Individuals with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) may find that lemon exacerbates their symptoms. This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.

8. Reference Books, Books for In-depth Study:

• Indian Materia Medica by Dr. K.M. Nadkarni

• Bhavaprakasha Nighantu

• The Complete Book of Ayurvedic Home Remedies by Dr. Vasant Lad

9. Further study: Plants that might interest you due to similar medicinal properties

1. Emblica officinalis (Amla, Indian Gooseberry)

   • Species: Emblica officinalis | Family: Phyllanthaceae | Genus: Phyllanthus

   • Similarities: Both are exceptionally rich in Vitamin C and used as potent antioxidants and immunomodulators. While lemon is heating post-digestion, Amla is uniquely cooling, making it a premier rejuvenating (Rasayana) tonic in Ayurveda.

2. Tamarindus indica (Tamarind, Imli)

   • Species: Tamarindus indica | Family: Fabaceae | Genus: Tamarindus

   • Similarities: Both have a sour taste and are used as digestive stimulants. Tamarind is also cooling and used in fevers, similar to lemon. However, tamarind is heavier and more laxative.

3. Mentha spicata (Spearmint, Pudina)

   • Species: Mentha spicata | Family: Lamiaceae | Genus: Mentha

   • Similarities: Both are carminative, digestive, and cooling. Mint is often combined with lemon in beverages for a synergistic digestive and refreshing effect. Both are used to relieve nausea and soothe an upset stomach.

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