Happy Pancake Day! While we love lemon and sugar on our pancakes, lemons are also a valuable ingredient in Folli Oil products. Here's why lemon is a powerhouse in skincare:
Lemon's Healing Properties
Lemon is renowned for its ability to stimulate white blood cells, which defend our bodies against infection. This makes it invaluable for treating external wounds and infectious illnesses. In Folli Oil products, we use lemon essential oil to help fight infected ingrown hairs and follicles. It also brightens dull and discolored skin, helping to fade scars and stretch marks.
Home Uses for Lemon:
1. Fading Discolored or Stained Nails
Lemons have a mild bleaching quality, making them useful for brightening discolored nails. Rub a slice of lemon on your nails for up to 5 minutes daily, or soak them in lemon juice. Rinse well with soap and water afterward. Avoid applying if you have cuts, as the acid can sting.
2. Treating Corns, Warts, and Verrucae
Lemon essential oil is a natural alternative to chemical treatments for removing corns, warts, and verrucae. Mix 2 drops of lemon essential oil with 10 drops of cider vinegar. Apply daily to the affected area, avoiding healthy skin. Cover with a plaster during the day and leave open at night. Repeat as needed.
3. Treating Bronchitis, Cold, and Flu
To reduce a fever, add freshly squeezed lemon juice to hot water with a little honey and drink throughout the day.
4. Supporting the Digestive System
Lemon can counteract acidity in the body, making it a helpful tonic for the digestive system, including the liver and pancreas. Drinking water with lemon slices throughout the day hydrates your body and boosts your immune system with Vitamin C, aiding collagen production for strong, elastic skin.
5. Oral Care
Lemon is haemostatic, helping to stop bleeding. A mouthwash of lemon juice mixed with water is a great tonic for mouth ulcers or gingivitis. After brushing, swill around your mouth for about a minute, then spit out (do not swallow).
A Word of Caution
Lemon can cause skin irritation in some people, so use it in moderation. If you experience irritation, stop immediately. Lemons are also photo-toxic, so avoid direct sunlight after applying lemon to your skin.