Organic Lemon Essential Oil

Organic Lemon
Citrus limonum

Source: Organic Whole Peel
Origin: Australia
Energetics: Yang
Extraction Method: Cold Pressed
Scent: Invigoratingly fresh, with bright citrus notes
Blends Well With: Peppermint, Lavender, Orange, Grapefruit, Bergamot, Eucalyptus and Rosemary.

About

Lemon essential oil, derived from the peel of fresh lemons through cold-press extraction, is a versatile and invigorating oil prized for its uplifting aroma and numerous therapeutic benefits. With its bright and citrusy scent, lemon oil is renowned for its ability to refresh the mind, uplift mood, and promote mental clarity. Its cleansing and purifying properties make it a popular choice for household cleaning products and aromatherapy blends. Lemon oil is also valued for its skin-cleansing properties, supporting a clear and healthy complexion. Whether diffused, applied topically, or incorporated into DIY recipes, lemon essential oil offers a burst of freshness and vitality, perfect for enhancing overall well-being and creating a vibrant atmosphere in any space.

Ayurvedic Uses

In Ayurveda, lemon essential oil, known as "Nimbu Taila" or "Jambira Taila," holds significance for its diverse therapeutic properties. Lemon oil is often utilised to balance the "Pitta" dosha, offering cooling and clarifying effects that help alleviate heat-related imbalances in the body and mind. Its refreshing citrus aroma is believed to uplift mood and promote mental clarity, making it beneficial for reducing feelings of irritability and anger associated with Pitta aggravation. Lemon oil is also valued for its detoxifying properties, aiding in digestion and supporting the elimination of toxins from the body. In Ayurvedic skincare, lemon oil is incorporated for its astringent and antiseptic qualities, helping to cleanse and tone the skin while promoting a healthy complexion.

Historical Snippets

Lemon oil may arguably be one of the most versatile essential oils, having been used in foods, skincare, perfumery, cleaning products and for health. Lemons date as far back as to 90 BC, where they were first mentioned in Jerusalem. In 1747, a study by Scottish physician James Lind showed that the citrus of two oranges and a lemon treated seamen suffering from scurvy. Maude Grieve dubbed lemons as the most valuable fruit for preserving one’s health. Since this, scientific studies have emerged proving that the oil may be even more beneficial than the fruit. 

Key Constituents

• Limonene
• β-Pinene
• γ-Terpinene
• α-Pinene
• Sabinene
• Citral
• Geraniol
• Citronellal
• Linalool
• α-Terpineol

How To Use

Diffuse: Add a few drops to a diffuser to disperse around the room

Topically: Dilute essential oil with any carrier oil at a 2.5% ratio. This equates to 2.5ml essential oil/oils in total mixed with 100ml of chosen carrier oil. 1ml of essential oil is approximately 20-22 drops of oil.  Decant into a roller or glass bottle with eye dropper to apply easily or a larger bottle if using for massage. Please note this dilution rate is for adults and children over the age of 6. More information on children and essential oils is on our blog page. Essential Oils should not be used directly on the skin without mixing first with a carrier oil

Inhalation: Add 1-2 drops essential oil to a tissue and inhale at a distance while ensuring that the oil does not come into direct contact with the skin. Alternatively, you can smell the oil directly from the bottle.

Shelf Life 

Our freshly decanted Organic Lemon essential oil will last for 1-2 years minimum from when you open your amber glass bottle if stored correctly:

Primary Storage Considerations: Keep away from direct light (U.V. radiation). Keep in the amber glass bottle with lid tightly closed. Only open when you need to and decant into a smaller "working" amber glass bottle if possible (and label so you know what is in it). This is to reduce oxidation.
Secondary Storage Considerations: Keep in a refrigerator at around 4 degrees celsius.

Safety

General
Some essential oils may cause photosensitivity to the skin - Use diluted in Jojoba or other complete carrier oil.
Do not ingest essential oils.
Do not apply to eyes, sensitive areas or mucous membranes.
The information on this website is not intended to be used in the diagnosis, treatment or mitigation of any physical or mental illness. Ahimsa Oils offer no advice or recommendations only general information. No therapeutic claims are made within.
Pregnant women, nursing mothers and children should not use essential oils without first consulting an appropriately trained healthcare practitioner.

The statements on this website have not been evaluated by the TGA. David Bosley however worked for a long period in consultation with the TGA to ensure correct labelling with reference to the Ahimsa Oil product range.

Specific
Hazards: Skin sensitization if oxidized; phototoxic (low risk)
Contraindications: If applied to skin at over maximum use level, skin must not be exposed to sunlight or sunbed rays for 12 hours.
Cautions: Old or oxidized oils should be avoided.
Maximum dermal level: 2.0%
Because of the (+)-limonene content, it's recommended that oxidation of lemon oil should be avoided by storage in a dark, airtight container in a refrigerator. The addition of antioxidants is recommended. 

References

Tisserand, R., & Young, R. (2014). Essential Oil Safety: Second edition