Botanical Name: The botanical name of lemon oil is *Citrus limon*. It is extracted from the rind (peel) of fresh lemons.

Plant Part: Lemon oil is primarily extracted from the rind or peel of fresh lemons. The peel contains the essential oil and its characteristic aroma.

Extraction Method: The primary method used for extracting lemon oil is cold pressing, also known as expression. In this process, mechanical pressure is applied to the lemon peel to release the essential oil. Cold pressing is favored for preserving the oil’s fresh and zesty aroma.

Origin: Lemons are widely cultivated in various parts of the world, including countries like Spain, Italy, and the United States. Different regions may produce variations in the aroma of the oil, with Italian and Sicilian lemons often being prized for their high-quality oil.

Color: Lemon oil typically has a pale to bright yellow color. The exact hue can vary depending on factors such as the age of the oil and the specific extraction process used.

Lemon oil is celebrated for its fresh, bright, and zesty aroma with a strong, sweet note. It has a thin to medium consistency and is often described as invigorating and uplifting. The oil’s scent is known for its ability to enhance mood and create a sense of cleanliness and freshness.

 Uses:

Lemon oil has a wide range of common uses in the pharmaceutical, culinary, cosmetic, and aromatherapy industry, primarily due to its therapeutic and aromatic properties:

– Culinary Use: Lemon oil is a popular flavoring agent in culinary applications, adding a tangy, citrusy flavor to various dishes, desserts, and beverages. It’s used to make lemon zest and add a burst of freshness to recipes.

– Aromatherapy: Its fresh and invigorating aroma is used in aromatherapy to uplift mood, reduce stress, and promote mental clarity and alertness. It helps create an energizing and cheerful atmosphere.

 – Cleaning Products: Lemon oil is added to cleaning products for its natural disinfectant and degreasing properties. It’s used to make natural, chemical-free cleaners and air fresheners.

– Skincare: It is included in skincare products for its potential to brighten the complexion, reduce the appearance of blemishes, and promote overall skin health.

– Digestive Health: Lemon oil can aid digestion and is sometimes used to alleviate digestive discomfort when diluted and applied topically or inhaled.

– Antioxidant: Lemon oil contains antioxidants that can help protect the skin from oxidative damage and signs of aging.

– Haircare: It is used in haircare products for its potential to promote healthy, shiny hair and reduce dandruff.

Blends Well With: Lemon oil blends well with a variety of other essential oils, allowing for the creation of complex and refreshing fragrances. It combines harmoniously with oils like lavender, peppermint, eucalyptus, and geranium. These combinations can result in unique scents suitable for aromatherapy and personal care products.

Odor: The aroma of lemon oil is characterized by its fresh, bright, and zesty notes with a strong, sweet undertone. It has an invigorating and uplifting scent with a hint of cleanliness. Lemon’s fragrance is often described as refreshing and mood-enhancing, making it a favorite for creating a sense of cleanliness and freshness.

Cautions: Lemon oil is generally safe for use but there are a few cautions to consider when using it in pharmaceutical and cosmetic formulations:

– Skin Sensitivity: Some individuals may experience skin sensitization with undiluted lemon oil. It is advisable to perform a patch test when applying it directly to the skin, especially if used in high concentrations.

– Phototoxicity: Lemon oil contains compounds that can make the skin more sensitive to sunlight. Avoid direct sunlight or UV exposure after applying undiluted lemon oil to the skin.

– Oral Consumption: Lemon oil can be used in culinary applications but should be used sparingly. Ingesting essential oils in large quantities can be harmful and should be done with caution.

Disclaimer: Please note, Medica Aroma Products does not recommend Lemon Oil (Citrus limon) be taken internally unless under the supervision of a Medical Doctor certified in clinical Aromatherapy.