Whole Food Signatures - Lemon
For many, this time of year is one of celebration, which frequently involves excessive eating and drinking. This will tend to take its toll on the liver, which is one of our vital organs. The liver has a wide range of functions, including detoxification, metabolism, protein synthesis and production of biochemicals necessary for digestion as well as being vital to immune system health.
A healthy liver will assist in flushing toxins out of your body. This week’s healthy whole food signature is the lemon - one of nature’s most beneficial fruits, which plays a helpful part in liver and gall bladder restoration!
The lemon has many healing uses and is ranked very high in its medicinal value. Lemons are known to improve liver function and have been used to help eliminate kidney stones when taken in the morning. Lemons are anti-scorbutic – which means a remedy that prevents disease and assists in cleansing the system of impurities.
Lemon is a potent detoxifier that kills intestinal parasites, worms and dissolves gallstones and a natural protector for cuts, bruises and infections. Also said to be beneficial for asthma and arthritis, lemons aid general blood purification and are beneficial in removing toxins in the form of old drug residues from the body. Due to the digestive qualities of lemon juice, symptoms of indigestion such as heartburn, bloating and gas are relieved. By drinking lemon juice regularly the bowels are aided in eliminating waste more efficiently thus controlling constipation and diarrhea. What’s more, lemons are beneficial to the heart and circulation and increase the vitality of the kidneys.
A powerful and healthful fruit, fresh organic lemons are enjoyable in salad dressings, add to your fresh squeezed juice, pop some in each glass of water or make a warm tea with lemon and any herb of your choice (try fresh mint!).
