Lemon and lime leaves are bright green in colour on the topside and have a matte finish on the bottom. They are aromatic and have a slight citrus taste. The leaves are usually used in cooking as a flavouring agent. What many of us don’t know is that lemon leaves have amazing medicinal uses. Lemon leaves are very high in vitamin C and hence build immunity in the body. They are powerful anti-inflammatory and antibacterial agents.
Medicinal uses of lemon leaf
- Lemon leaves are considered to be a sedative and and have antispasmodic (relieves spasms in muscles) properties.
- Lemon leaves are used to treat insomnia, anxiety and palpitation.
- Lemon leaves are also used to treat headaches and migraines.
- Lemon leaves are very effective in treating asthma.
- Lemon leaf is also used to deworm.
How to use lemon leaves for health conditions
Lemon leaf is best ingested in the form of a tea. Drinking lemon leaf tea twice a day for a month can really help in treating asthma, insomnia, anxiety and migraines. Lemon leaf tea helps to ward off colds and sinus infections. You can also do a steam inhalation by adding lemon leaves to a pot of boiling water and inhaling the vapours.
How to make Lemon tea
Ingredients
- 5-6 lemon leaves
- 1 stalk of lemongrass
- 1 sprig of mint leaves
- zest of a lime or half a lemon
- Honey to taste (optional)
Method
Tear the lemon leaves to release the flavour. Add all the ingredients to a pot. Bring the water to a boil and then pour it into the pot. Let the ingredients steep in the pot for 10-15 minutes. Pour the tea and drink. You can also add honey to sweeten it. But honestly, you don’t need to sweeten it. The tea is so refreshing and aromatic and flavourful just as it is. It also is a palate cleanser.
Lemon leaf health benefits for the skin
Lemon leaf extracts are very beneficial for skin problems like acne and pimples. It helps to lighten scars and hence is used in face packs, scrubs and toners. When used in a face mask, it helps to bring a glow to your face. It prevents skin infections and when used with water, hydrates the skin. It is even said to relieve eczema. The antioxidants in lemon leaf protect your skin, and reduces premature ageing. Lemon leaves can be used to treat skin problems due to its antimicrobial properties. It can also be helpful in protecting against skin infections by eliminating bad bacteria from the skin.
Make a vitamin C toner with lemon leaves
You can dry and powder the lemon leaves finely and use them in face packs and face scrubs. It makes a very good toner for the face because of its astringent quality.
Lemon leaf face pack
Ingredients
- 10-15 lemon leaves
- 1 tsp rice powder
- 2 tablespoon curd
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
Procedure
Grind all the ingredients to a fine paste. Mix well and apply to your face. Keep for 10-15 minutes and wash with lukewarm water. Do this twice a week. This face pack is very good for removing scars pigmentation. It brings a glow to your face and helps prevent acne.