LEMONS
Lemons are native to tropical Asia, and spread to the New World by
the Spaniards. Today, most of the world's lemons are produced in Southern
California and in Italy. In 1870, Californian C.R. Workman used a Sicilian
lemon seed to create a variety called the Eureka. Today the Eureka is
prolific, as well as the Lisbon variety.
A single lemon tree has been known to produce 3,000 lemons a year.
The best lemons are oily and heavy for their size, meaning they are
full of juice. Select lemons of a deep yellow color, that show no signs
of bruises.
Beneficial Effects:
Rich in alkaline elements, lemon juice is a great source of Vitamin
C. Remember, this vitamin evaporates when exposed to air and light. Lemons
are high in potassium, as well as vitamin B1 and vitamin G.
Lemons and limes contain 5 to 6 percent citric acid, compared to oranges
which contain only 1 to 1.5 percent. Other examples of acid fruits include
cranberries, loganberries, pineapples, pomegranates, strawberries and
tamarinds. Lemons are great for detoxifying the body, but the citric
acid will stir up inactive acids and toxins in the body.
Lemon drinks help in eliminating impurities, for example in the liver.
According to homeopathic writers, lemons and lemon juice are very effective
in cases of influenza. Consider mixing lemon juice with a glass of hot
water, or juice a lemon with apples for a healthy lemonade.
