History and Uses:
Lemon Peel is derived from the fruit of Citrus limon, the common lemon. Man has cultivated the Lemon for about two thousand years, and it has become one of the most popular citrus fruits in the world and is cultivated in warmer climates across the globe. Though most people peel the Lemon and eat only the fruit, the Lemon Peel, though not tasty on its own, is used medicinally. Lemon Peel contains calcium, phosphorus, potassium, ascorbic acid and vitamin A, as well as volatile oil and hesperidin. In Africa, Lemon Peel is used to treat colic, and in India, Lemon Peel is used to treat upset stomach. The British Pharmacopoeia lists Lemon Peel as an aromatic for use as an fragrance and flavor enhancer. The bioflavonoid constituents of this herb are reported to reduce the permeability of blood vessels, especially of capillaries, so that extracts from Lemon Peel are also included in remedies for phlebitis. New studies on a monoterpene found in Lemon Peel called "limonene" show that it very effectively prevents individuals from developing abnormal growths on their skin. Limonene also has demonstrated prevention efficacy in preclinical models of abnormal growths of the breast and colon. The most promising use of Lemon Peel is indicated in recent research, which shows that this herb may help reduce the occurrence of squamous cell skin melanoma. Further study is still required to support this research.
