4 New Ways to Use Lemons

Antioxidant-rich lemon adds zest to culinary dishes. Outside of the kitchen, its antiseptic qualities shine. Here are four modern ways to use this versatile fruit.

Lemon juice
Because lemon juice is highly antibacterial and antiseptic, it can help treat acne. Mix 2 teaspoons fresh-squeezed lemon juice with 1/2 teaspoon rose water. Soak a cotton ball in the mixture and lightly sweep over face (not for sensitive skin). Leave on overnight and wash off in the morning.

Lemon rind
Most citrus fruits are effective insect repellents. Place rinds on a cookie sheet, and dry in an oven heated to 150 degrees for three hours. Gather a cupful of dried rinds into a large piece of cheesecloth, tie with a string, and hang in closets or storage spaces to keep out moths.

Lemon oil
Lemon essential oil’s scent invigorates and refreshes senses. The oil increases circulation, and its vitamin C stimulates collagen, which encourages smoother, more elastic skin. Natural, cold-pressed lemon oil should smell complex, fresh, and aromatic. Always smell a lemon-oil product before purchasing–if it smells harsh, it’s probably not all-natural. Dab on gently.

Preserved lemon
Preserved lemons are simply lemons that have been pickled in salt and their own juice. Chop 2 lemons (rind and all), and mix with 2 tablespoons olive oil, a pinch of salt, and a few cracks of pepper for an incredible bread dip. Or sprinkle over a nicoise salad.

Delicious Living is the go-to resource for the natural and organic lifestyle, helping readers eat well, live green, and stay healthy. Visit deliciouslivingmag.com for more articles and free recipes.

Read more: Basics, Beauty, Food, Home, Household Hints, Skin Care, lemon

By Kate Bailey, Delicious Living

Disclaimer: The views expressed above are solely those of the author and may not reflect those of
Care2, Inc., its employees or advertisers.

Cassandra L.

12:13AM PDT on Sep 14, 2010

l will try the preparation as I have two lemons in the fridge.

send a green star

Kadie H.

9:36AM PDT on Apr 6, 2010

I love lemons! Especially to add to tea to help sooth a sore throat

Leia P.

10:50PM PST on Mar 12, 2010

the insect repellant sounds interesting. i will have to try it

Monica D.

6:14PM PST on Mar 8, 2010

I love the scent of lemons!

Past Member .

6:31AM PST on Dec 8, 2009

I love lemons thanks!!!!!!!!!!

11:13PM PDT on Sep 10, 2009

Lemons have an alkalizing effect on the body.
Acidity is one of the leading causes of bone loss. Add fresh lemon juice to water to help fight off osteoporosis.

Aletta K.

4:29PM PDT on Sep 10, 2009

Just love anything LEMON !!!!

Cindy M.

3:44PM PDT on Sep 10, 2009

1844 Cough Elixyr ( Found in my great-grandmother's notes):
1 cup molasses, 1/3 cup vinegar, 1 lemon rind, 1/2 small onion
boil Molasses and vinegar until a drop forms a ball in cold water, turn down to med, dice lemon rind, onion, add to mixture, stir well:
The victim, um, Patient, must eat all of this and then go to bed-
This actually does work!

Jeanne M.

10:17AM PDT on Sep 10, 2009

All excellent ideas. And, of course, there's always lemon pie.

Perla A.

7:26AM PDT on Sep 10, 2009

Thank you for sharing the many uses of lemons! I mostly use them squeezed in my hot teas to soothe my sore throat, and to flavor my water!