Lemons are a great fruit, there are no two ways about it. Whether you use the juice in salad dressings or prepare bake-off worthy delights, there are so many different ways to use this versatile citrus favourite.
They’re healthy too. Lemons are high in vitamin C, potassium, flavonoids, and limonins.1 But it’s not just the delicious fruit that provides a range of health benefits. Before you throw away the peel, it’s worth thinking about whether incorporating it could bring extra health benefits too.Health benefits of lemon peel
Lemon peels are thought to contain plenty of bioactive compounds. They have excellent nutritional value, with a fair amount of vitamin C, fibre, calcium, potassium, D-limonene, and magnesium.2These nutrients might contribute to the following lemon peel benefits:
- Improved oral health
- Supporting your immune system
- Improved heart health
- Assisting your digestive system
- Protecting against inflammation3
It’s worth bearing in mind that more research is needed for all lemon peel benefits. Adding some zest to your diet won’t be a ‘magic cure’ or fix all problems. However, you might find that you benefit from including peel in your meals (if only for its zingy taste!).
Lemon peel uses
Lemon peels are incredibly versatile. Whether you use yours in your nutrition plans or try them in your cleaning routine, you’ll find plenty of lemon peel uses that could make a difference.
- Eating lemon peel
- Beauty treatments
- Cleaning solutions
Potential side effects of using lemon peel
When thinking about incorporating different lemon peel into your lifestyle, it’s important to remember that there could be some side effects. These include:
- Skin irritation
- Increased chance of sunburn
- Tooth corrosion7
It’s worth bearing in mind that there isn’t a vast amount of research into lemon peel benefits and uses, which means we don’t know all the potential side effects. Use lemon peel in moderation and stop if you notice any irritation or unwanted side-effects.
Last updated: 23 October 2020
- https://www.livescience.com/54282-lemon-nutrition.html
- https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/lemon-peel
- https://www.wellandgood.com/lemon-peel-benefits/
- https://www.wellandgood.com/lemon-peel-benefits/
- https://www.stylecraze.com/articles/amazing-benefits-of-lemon-peels/
- https://www.tasteofhome.com/collection/lemon-peel-uses
- https://www.emedihealth.com/lemon-benefits.html