Lemon is not only the emblem of acidity but it is also a superfood that is bursting with benefits for our body. But the flesh and juice of this citrus fruit are not the only assets that mother nature has provided, its skin is rich in elements capable of improving our health at more than one level.
Many vitamins and minerals naturally come into the composition of lemons such as vitamins A, C, B1, B6, nobiletine (a flavonoid), magnesium, phosphorus, pectin, potassium, calcium, limonoid or proteins.
But the wonders of lemon do not stop there, since the zest also contains elements such as vitamin C, oleic acid, linoleic acid, α-linolenic acid, formic acid, malic acid and pectins that are able to act directly on our body to do it the greatest good by relieving joint pain and inflammation and ensure that the blood vessels are well relaxed.
It is for all these reasons that we present you with a tip that will allow you to make the most of what lemon has to offer in terms of pain relief.
Method of preparation
Start by grating the skin of an organic lemon if you do not have one, wash this citrus fruit with a mixture of water and apple cider vinegar to remove all traces of pesticides. Then using the bark, rub the area where the pain is concentrated before covering the same area with a bandage that you must keep for a period of 2 hours.
Two weeks ago, take the zest of two lemons and put them in a glass jar that you will have filled with olive oil. Leave them for two weeks. Beyond this time, you can use the oil in which the lemon zest has been preserved to rub the areas where you feel pain. Do not forget to use a gauze to wrap them overnight.
The real interest of lemon zest
The lemon peel is a powerful antiseptic thanks to its high content of citric acid, malic acid and formic acid. These three organic acids have anti-inflammatory and relaxing properties that relieve people with joint pain, the same is true for the relaxation of blood vessels and the obvious easing of all the pain sensations that the body can feel.
This part of the lemon is also edible and can quite complement your salads, dishes, cakes, teas or juice thanks to its subtle flavor and very interesting in terms of taste. Just keep them in the freezer, they will keep very well and will not lose their taste.
Olive oil used as an anti-inflammatory
Olive oil also has a say in the field of foods with effective anti-inflammatory effects. According to a study published in the Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry in 2015, oleocanthal, a compound present in olive oil, would inhibit the release of pro-inflammatory enzymes and thus be highly effective. against rheumatoid arthritis. This allowed the scientists to draw the conclusion that oleocanthal and, therefore, olive oil, has considerable effects on a multitude of types of inflammation including acute and chronic inflammation.
Contraindication
Lemon is not recommended for people with stomach ulcers or gallstones or kidney stones. Citrus allergy is also a reason why it is not recommended to eat it.
