Interesting Facts about lemons and their versatile uses, as well as a bit of history.
We all know lemons, those sour, yellow fruits that seem to epitomize acidity. Due to their tart taste, lemons aren’t typically eaten as a quick snack, unlike other citrus fruits such as oranges, mandarins, or even grapefruits.
Lemons are more commonly associated as additions to beverages and various culinary preparations, yet they are incredibly rich in vitamins and minerals. Therefore, along with other fruits, lemons should be a staple in every diet.
Below, you’ll find plenty of facts and information about lemons. If you know any other interesting facts about lemons, we’d love to hear them.
Interesting facts about lemons that we managed to find for you
- The common lemon is a plant originating from China, but it is not currently cultivated there nor does it occur in the wild.
- It is believed that the lemon originated from the cross-breeding of lime and citron.
- Lemons were likely brought from Asia by the Arabs.
- Initially, they were cultivated in the Middle East, and they reached Europe during the Crusades.
- There are records in the chronicles of ancient Rome about the cultivation of citron, a species from which the common lemon was later obtained through cross-breeding.
- The citron is the oldest known citrus variety which, along with the pomelo and mandarin, is a parent species of most citrus fruits grown today.
- The lemons found on store shelves today grow on trees that can reach heights of up to 10 meters, but skilled cultivation keeps them in the form of low bushes.
- Lemon trees produce flowers about 3 centimetres in size during blooming, emitting a strong fragrance.
- The fruit of the lemon tree is a berry.
Health properties of lemons and benefits of eating them
- Lemons are rich in vitamins, primarily vitamin C and B1, as well as many other valuable substances such as potassium, calcium, and phosphorus.
- Lemons have a low-energy value. In 100 grams of fruit, there is just under 40 kcal.
- The carbohydrate content in 100 grams of lemon is 10 grams.
- Citric acid stimulates the secretion of bile, which aids in the digestion of fats.
- Lemons are a valuable source of antioxidants, which in turn protect the cells in our bodies from damage.
- Lemon juice aids in detoxifying the body and boosting immunity.
- In the Middle Ages, lemon pulp served as a wound healing agent.
- For centuries, lemons have been used as an excellent substance for hygiene and skincare. Their properties help even out skin tone, reduce discolouration, and support processes that slow down skin ageing.
- Lemons contain phenolic acids, which, according to studies, have a beneficial effect on the cardiovascular system.
- Compounds found in lemons have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, so when you cough and have a fever, grandma prepares lemon tea for you.
- Lemon reduces blood clotting, which in turn reduces the risk of heart disease.
- Another important substance obtained from lemons is essential oil, used during body message, baths, and in body care products.
- The acid in lemons changes the pH in the mouth and kills bacteria that contribute to bad breath.
- In numerous instances, lemon juice will help get rid of dandruff.
- Lemon compresses help care for nails and the bends of knees and elbows.
- A lemon compress soothes burns caused by nettles and ivy.
- Remember that creams containing substances derived from lemons undergo photoallergic reactions, which means you should not use them when going to the beach on a sunny day.
Interesting facts about lemons and their use in the kitchen and home
- Lemons have been used in kitchens around the world for centuries.
- The sharp, sour taste of lemons makes them impossible to eat directly, at least I can’t do it.
- The main use of lemons is as an addition to beverages and juices, especially in the summer, when lemon juice quenches perfectly thirst and provides the body with valuable nutrients.
- Lemons are also very useful in winter. On cold days, they work great as a healthy addition to warming drinks.
- Thanks to their properties, lemons are used as additions to tea and syrups, often combined with ginger and honey.
- Lemons are also an ingredient in many marinades. Their juice makes meat tender and delicate.
- Lemon juice can enhance the flavour of sweet or savoury dishes, making them more prominent and refined.
- Many connoisseurs can’t imagine fish or seafood dishes without lemon.
- Lemon juice prevents cooked vegetables from browning.
- When lettuce or herbs in the fridge start to wilt, you can rinse them in cold water with lemon to extend their freshness.
- Lemon is an excellent addition to sauces, especially heavy ones.
- I remember my grandmother adding grated lemon zest to breadcrumbs, for example, those used in pork chops. Thanks to this, it was delicate and fragrant.
- Thanks to the presence of strong acids, lemon is also useful as a good and natural cleaning agent.
- Warm lemon slices in a bowl with water will help remove even the toughest dirt.
- After cleaning the microwave, the remaining lemon can be used as a great polish for the metal sink in the kitchen.
- Lemon juice and baking soda will help you clean most of the dirt in the house in a completely eco-friendly way.
- Lemon juice works great for removing scale from a kettle.
- I’ve heard that lemon does an impressive job of cleaning gold. Unfortunately, I haven’t tested it because I don’t own any of that metal.
- If you want your kitchen to smell beautiful, boil a pot of water and add a chopped lemon to it.
- Lemon works great as a polish for copper items, such as pots.
- Lemon repels insects, including ants. Just sprinkle the places where the insects appear. You can also place lemon slices near doors and windows.
- Lemon effectively removes stains from marble worktops, clothes, or fabric.
- Lemon removes mould and prevents its reappearance.
As the above interesting facts about lemons show, it is quite a useful fruit. Although it is sour as hell and cannot be eaten raw, it can be very useful.
Interesting facts about lemons is part of our section with interesting information about the world around us.
