Lemon zest: benefits and harm to the body

Lemon is not only a pleasant, sour fruit, but also very healthy. This is a storehouse of a variety of vitamins, minerals and trace elements. They are treated for colds, it is used to prevent many serious diseases and strengthen the immune system. But not only the pulp has all these unique properties. The dense peel, called zest, is not inferior in value to citrus fruit itself. A knowledgeable hostess will not throw her into the bin, as there is a huge amount of healing substances in the zest. The peel of a lemon will not only heal the body, but also give it strength to recover. When using the zest in cooking, it will give the dishes a special taste and aroma.

Worth to know! Lemon zest contains 7 times more nutrients and vitamins than the juice itself!

What is lemon zest

Lemon zest is the shell or peel surrounding the citrus pulp. It is dense and comes in different colors. In most cases, it has a yellow color, but there are fruits with a green peel. It tastes sweetish, slightly bitterness. For the persistent aroma, the zest was appreciated by the chefs and remained an indispensable ingredient in the preparation of many dishes. But not only confectioners were able to recognize the usefulness and significance of the peel of a lemon. It is used in medicine, industrial production, cosmetology, everyday life and in other fields.

It should be noted that before the lemon peel was simply thrown out and was not used anywhere. Only in the Middle Ages it was noticed and appreciated, having discovered that the shell of a lemon has disinfecting properties. It was at this time that she began to enjoy popularity and remained recognized until now.

Composition and calorie content

If we consider the chemical composition of the citrus peel, it will immediately become clear what is the secret of its value to the human body. Consider the calorie content per 100 g of zest and nutritional composition.

Calorie content is 47 kcal. Now let's move on to the content:

• Carbohydrates - 5.4 g
• Proteins - 1.5 g
• Dietary fiber - 10.6 g
• Fats - 0.3 g
• Ash - 0.6 g
• Water - 81.6 g

The value of the zest is that it contains micronutrients, vitamins, fatty acids, etc., which are especially important for the human body. We will not list everything, but let us dwell on the most significant ones, of which there are a sufficient number of citrus shells. This includes:

• calcium;
• potassium;
• phosphorus;
• iron;
• magnesium;
• copper, etc.

If we talk about vitamins, then the most important element will be S. Its in 100 g of lemon peel - 129 mg. Other vitamins:

• alpha and beta carotene;
• vitamin A;
• B vitamins;
• Vitamin E
• vitamin PP;
• lutein;
• beta-rptoxanthin and others

As you can see, the value of lemon peel is undeniable. Enough even a small piece of the peel to get a sufficient amount of substances useful to the body. In addition, lemon peel is rich in essential oils that give the fruit a special aroma and taste.

What is useful lemon zest

General benefit

The usefulness of lemon peel can be explained by the presence of elements that are important for human health, which include vitamins, minerals, trace elements, oils and antioxidants. Citrus peel is called a natural antibiotic, and it is. Lemon itself and its zest are indispensable for the prevention and treatment of colds. In addition, the zest:

• increases vascular elasticity and improves blood flow;
• removes harmful deposits from the body and cleanses the liver;
• prevents the occurrence of thrombosis and varicose veins;
• stimulates the functioning of the immune system;
• positively affects the nervous system.

Worth to know! In combination with honey, chocolate and spices, the zest turns into an aphrodisiac, which can increase sexual activity and attraction.

Even doctors recognize the value of the product and often recommend that their patients regularly include zest in their diet.

The use of zest:

1. Potassium and polyphenols contained in the shell of citrus can strengthen the heart muscle and support the work of the heart. Thanks to the flavonoids included in the composition, cholesterol levels are reduced.
2. Citrus peel contains salvestrol and limonene, which help fight cancer cells. Therefore, regular consumption of lemon peel will be an excellent way to prevent oncology.
3. Due to the high fiber content, the digestive tract improves. Fiber not only stimulates the intestines, but also eliminates spasms, colic and flatulence. And due to the antibacterial substances contained in the zest, you can easily overcome the pathogenic intestinal microflora.
4. The high content of vitamin C helps the human body cope with colds. Despite the fact that many people prefer lemon juice, you need to know that it is in the rind that a valuable source is concentrated. For this reason, it is necessary in the period of danger of acute respiratory viral infections to prepare drinks or dishes with citrus zest.
5. The lemon shell is used in cosmetology to rejuvenate the skin. It contains a large amount of essential oils and riboflavin, which stimulate metabolic skin processes. Due to this, blood circulation improves, and the skin is saturated with enough oxygen. If you mix the zest with olive oil, you get an excellent cleanser (scrub).
6. Zest is also good for bones. Vitamins C and A reduce the risk of arthritis. And iron, calcium and potassium support bone tissue and strengthen it.
7. Lemon zest is an excellent remedy for diseases such as scurvy. She takes good care of the oral cavity and is able to prevent bleeding gums and gingivitis.
8. Lemon peels can help diabetics. The fiber in the zest will slow down the absorption of sugar and provide a gradual increase in glucose in the body. It will saturate the body with useful and nutrients and help solve the problem with extra pounds.

For women

For the female body, lemon peel is simply irreplaceable. The range of active substances contained in it combines all the necessary and useful elements for the beauty, youth and health of a woman.

The citrus peel will help to make the skin supple, and will also be an excellent tool to prevent wrinkles. For those who have oily skin, the zest can replace the tonic and relieve permanent unhealthy shine. It is able to eliminate acne, acne, cleanse the skin. If you make a scrub from lemon peel, then the body will not only become elastic, but also saturated with a pleasant aroma.

Citric acid whitens the skin and removes age spots. In addition, the citrus peel perfectly tones and soothes the skin.

Lemon zest is a great slimming product. Its natural elements normalize the intestines and slow down the absorption of fats and sugar.

For men

In ancient times, lemon was considered a means of combating infertility. And if you take into account that the citrus peel contains 7 times more nutrients than the pulp, then its use will be much more effective.

Lemon zest can support the strength of a man. You can increase sexual desire in combination with chocolate, spices and honey.

Gels for men with lemon content perfectly tone the skin and protect against irritation.

During pregnancy

Even in ancient times, healers used citrus fruit. They were treated with various female diseases and prescribed to pregnant women. The ancient physician Avicenna, known to everyone, was sure that a lemon would help a future mother cope with toxicosis.

Many pregnant women are drawn to sour, and this can be explained. The body of a woman carrying a child requires additional protection. This can provide fruits rich in C-vitamin. Lemon zest not only protects the body of a pregnant woman, but also strengthens her immunity.

Drinks with the addition of citrus peel will work as a diuretic and relieve the expectant mother of puffiness.

The beneficial minerals, vitamins and minerals contained in the zest are necessary for the unborn baby, so regular consumption of lemon peel can help in the formation of the child's bones, brain cells and nervous system.

Do not forget that lemon peel helps with toxicosis. Consuming zest will soothe nerves and relieve back pain. It must be taken so that there is no varicose veins, stretch marks and cellulite.

When breastfeeding

Lemon zest during breastfeeding is permissible only if the baby does not have an allergic reaction to the product. It is a valuable source of vital vitamins, nutrients and trace elements.

Lemon zest will not only enhance maternal health after childbirth, but also enrich the baby’s body. According to scientists, citruses have a positive effect on the baby’s immune system and virtually eliminate the development of infectious diseases.

For kids

Since there is a sufficient amount of C-vitamin in the zest, as well as calcium, iron, potassium, etc., it is simply necessary for the child. But you need to understand that excessive consumption of citrus fruits can cause allergies and adversely affect the baby's health. To get a positive result, you should take it in moderate doses. Lemon zest has antipyretic and antiseptic properties that are difficult to find in other fruits.

Using citrus peel you can:

• disinfect the oral cavity;
• eliminate constipation, prevent diarrhea;
• treat ARVI;
• get rid of helminthic diseases;
• in the summer to quench your thirst and refresh yourself with citrus-flavored drinks;
• strengthen bones.

It is useful to use the zest for children with hypovitaminosis, infectious diseases and gastrointestinal problems.

When losing weight

Lemon zest, due to its valuable composition of useful elements, can help in losing weight. Even doctors agree that citrus has the properties of stimulating metabolic processes, which lead to weight loss.

Lemon zest is capable of:

• dull the feeling of hunger;
• remove harmful substances and toxins from the body;
• break down fats;
• step up exchange processes;
• saturate the body with all the necessary minerals, trace elements and vitamins.

Lemon zest in medicine

In medicine, lemon peel is used as a prophylactic. It can improve the condition of the intestines, cleanse the liver, strengthen bone tissue, calm the nerves. And for the treatment of acute respiratory viral infections and infectious diseases, she has no equal. Do not forget that with the help of citrus peels you can prevent the occurrence of cancer, as well as eliminate oxidative processes.

Lemon zest easily fights viruses and bacteria and helps a person get rid of a cold or other infection in a short time. She is capable of:

• restore the digestive tract processes and normalize them;
• remove toxins and toxins;
• eliminate skin rashes;
• relieve fever;
• strengthen immunity and restore the body;
• relieve headaches, especially with migraines;
• dilute blood, thereby preventing the formation of blood clots and varicose veins.

Not everyone knows that putrefactive processes in the liver can be avoided if drinks and meals with zest are regularly taken. In addition, citrus peel is recommended for patients with tuberculosis, jaundice, dropsy, scurvy. It will help get rid of rheumatism, hemorrhoids, gout, atherosclerosis.

Consider folk recipes for eliminating some ailments with the help of lemon peel.

Malaria treatment

During the week, you need to eat one lemon daily along with the peel. You can add a grapefruit in which quinine is present.

Fighting Worms

Peel the citrus fruit and chop it thoroughly. Add some pulp and seeds to the mixture. Pour all the boiled water, put a couple of spoons of honey there and insist the mixture for two hours. Then strain and drink at night.

For heart

Wash the lemon thoroughly and peel it. Chew it without any additives. It is quite edible and even tastes good. The essential oils contained in it contribute to improving the performance of the heart.

To lower cholesterol

Grate the zest of one lemon and add half a glass of plain water (100 ml). Add 10 ml (1 tbsp.spoon) of lemon juice here and mix everything thoroughly. Use the prepared mixture immediately in the morning on an empty stomach. The course is 7 days.

Cooking Application

The skin of lemon in cooking is second to none. It is added to soups, meat, salads and even desserts are prepared from it.

1. Zest is added to soups and broths to give them an exquisite taste. You can use pre-prepared powder or fresh. Add it at the end of cooking, like all seasonings.
2. Lemon peel is also used for salads. She adds zest to the finished dish. Rub the zest, preferably on a grater with small teeth, then add ground pepper. The seasoning is ready and you can use it.
3. For meat dishes and chicken, citrus zest will be indispensable. Before baking chicken or meat, rub it with a citrus peel and put lemon slices inside. The finished meat will have a piquant taste and a refined aroma.
4. Instead of sweets, candied fruits can be prepared. It is much tastier and healthier.

How to use for cosmetic purposes

For beauty and health, the lemon peel for a woman is salvation. With its help, you can get rid of problem skin and even make it lighter.

1. Mix olive oil with sugar and add grated and crushed zest. You will receive a natural body and face scrub. Moreover, he not only thoroughly cleanses the skin and removes dead skin particles, but also saturates your entire body with aroma, and also normalizes the increased fat content of the skin.
2. To remove yellowness from the heels, wipe them with a lemon peel.
3. If you regularly use the zest as a tonic, i.e. wipe her face daily with her, then after a while the skin will become elastic, without acne. Skin color will also improve significantly.
4. To get rid of acne, take cucumber juice with sugar and mix it with zest. Apply daily to problem areas for 20 minutes, then rinse with water. Gradually acne will pass.
5. If there are problems with pigmentation, then apply a lemon peel to the spots and wait 30-40 minutes. You can repeat the process regularly and stretch it to 1 hour until pigmentation passes.
6. If there are problems with hair, then you can make a mask from the zest with the addition of coconut milk or oil. Apply the mixture on the skin and leave for 30 minutes. Rinse off with water. The tool will relieve hair loss and give them volume.

Harm and contraindications

Lemon fruits are used by chefs and pastry chefs around the world. They make drinks, add to soups, salads, meat and other main dishes. Many even prefer lemons desserts. Refined, one can say, the unique taste of lemon cannot be confused with anything. Moreover, it is not only tasty, but also healthy. But you must understand that excessive consumption of fruit, even for a healthy person, is unsafe.

Despite the usefulness of the fruit, lemon can cause allergies in humans.The reasons may be different, but the main one is intolerance to acids or protein, which are enough in a lemon skin. The immune system begins to fight them, reacting in this way. When rashes appear on the skin after consuming lemon that begin to itch, this means that the fruit is not suitable. To use it in this case is not recommended.

In addition, the zest and lemon itself should not be consumed:

1. People suffering from peptic ulcer and gastrointestinal tract. This can lead to complications and increase the secretion of acid in the body.
2. With inflammatory diseases of the oral cavity.
3. People suffering from hypertension. Zest can increase blood pressure, so you should be careful about this and not risk your health.

How to store lemon zest

To preserve the zest and all its beneficial qualities, you can resort to several methods:

• to dry;
• to freeze;
• put in the refrigerator.

Is it possible to freeze

This is the easiest and longest way to store. The zest will be stored in the freezer for up to 6 months. The zest must be carefully wrapped in cellophane so that no air gets inside, and put in the freezer.

If you store the zest in the refrigerator, then it must be used within 2 weeks.

Is it possible to dry

Dried zest with proper storage may be usable throughout the year.

1. Method 1 Grate the zest or cut it into thin slices. Lay out on paper and dry well. Fold in a glass or tin jar and tightly close with any lid.
2. Method 2 Remove the thin peel from the lemon and dry it, previously covering it with paper. Paper is needed so that excess moisture is drawn out. After this, grind the dried skin into powder or crush it. You can rub the skin manually or with a spoon. The resulting powder is placed in a jar and stored as in the previous method.

How to choose a good lemon for zest

The choice of lemon for the zest matters. For example, if you take citrus not for harvesting, but for applying it immediately, then you can choose an unripe lemon. But for the preparation of pickled lemons or zest, you need ripe fruit.

How to distinguish ripe citrus from ripe? After all, they all have the same color. You need to know that there are secrets with which you can find differences. Ripe lemon will shine unlike an unripe fruit. Unripe lemon has a matte skin and does not shine.

There is a danger of buying overripe fruit in the store. To prevent this from happening, you need to press it lightly. If the ripe fruit springs, but remains firm, the overripe fruit remains soft and does not spring.

For zest, a bumpy lemon is best. It is believed that he has a thicker skin, which will be required for the workpiece.

How to make a zest

Many people think that the zest is bitter. This is not true. Lemon peel will not be bitter if cut properly. To do this, it is necessary not to capture the white layer of the shell, which gives a bitter taste.

1. Rinse the fruit thoroughly and pour boiling water over it.
2. Using a knife or peeler, cut the lemon peel in a thin layer. Watch carefully so as not to trap the white dense layer of the fetus.
3. Further actions are up to you and your desires. Zest can be grated and immediately used or dried for future use.

The second option for preparing the zest is with a grater. Rinse the fruit and pour boiling water over it. Gently start rubbing the peel in a circle. Do not push and go through the reused areas. Remember that the white shell of the lemon will give the zest a bitterness!

The use of lemon peel in everyday life

Enterprising housewives will never throw the zest in the bin, as they know the usefulness of lemon peel.With its help in everyday life you can do a bunch of useful things, thereby saving on expensive detergents and powders.

1. Cleaning dishes and removing grease stains. Zest copes with oily contaminations. Take half the fruit and pour salt on it. Wipe the place of pollution with it, and remove the remains with a cloth. Remember that there are surfaces that are particularly sensitive to acid. Therefore, to begin with, conduct an experiment in a small area so as not to spoil the entire surface.
2. Microwave cleaning. Take a small container, fill it with water and place the zest in it. Put in the oven and turn on the microwave for 7 minutes at the highest power. The liquid will boil and release condensate, which will settle on the walls of the stove. Next, wipe the walls with a damp cloth or sponge and remove any remaining moisture with dirt.
3. Cleaning the kettle. Finely chop the lemon peel, place it in the kettle, fill it with water and put on fire. After the water boils, turn off the gas and let it brew for one hour. Then drain and rinse the kettle. The scum will disappear.
4. Coffee maker. To clean the coffee maker you will need ice, a little salt and zest. Put everything in a container and shake the contents vigorously for several minutes. Then clean and rinse.
5. Aroma of unpleasant odors. Take the peel of 2 lemons, a few sprigs of rosemary, 5 ml of vanilla essence (1 teaspoon) and half a liter of water. Mix everything and put on fire. After the mixture boils, remove from heat and let it brew for 15 minutes. After cooling, pour the liquid and use it as an air freshener. To get rid of the unpleasant smell of the bin, you can put a few lemon peels on its bottom.
6. Insect control. Most insects do not tolerate the citrus smell. Therefore, with its help you can easily get rid of mosquitoes and flies in the summer, and in the spring - from moths and ants. To do this, spread the grated zest in bags or dried peel on the windows, near the doors, in the cabinets, or prepare a special spray and spray it on bedding and curtains.
7. Tissue whitening. Using lemon peels added to the washing machine during washing, you can give the fabric a fresh and presentable appearance.

To eliminate unpleasant odors from a cutting board, just wipe it with half a lemon. This will sanitize the board and clean it.

How to remove bitterness from lemon peel

Lemon zest is appreciated not only for its beneficial healing qualities, but also for its pleasant aroma and taste. It is used in the preparation of many dishes and drinks. But what if the zest is bitter, is it possible to get rid of the bitter taste?

There is an easy way to get rid of bitterness. Pour boiling water over the zest and let it brew for 5–10 minutes. After that, the bitter taste should disappear. Then drain the water and lay the peel on a towel or paper towel. When the zest dries, it can again be used without a bitter taste.

Interesting facts about lemons

What do we know about lemon? At its mention, a sour fruit with a pleasant aroma immediately appears. It is known that with a cold, he becomes an indispensable assistant and contributes to a quick recovery and heat removal. Delicious sour lemon tea is loved by many people. But there are facts about which many do not know anything. It is about them that will be discussed later.

1. Did you know that if the food is too salted, then this can be fixed. It is enough to drip a little lemon juice into the food. It is clear that an excess of salt and acid can not be called useful, but the taste of food will be pleasant.
2. The presence of decorative lemon in the room has a positive effect on its inhabitants. Citrus disinfects harmful microorganisms in the room. If the family has a patient, put a pot with a plant in his room, and he will quickly recover.
3. The drink was called lemonade because it was first made from lemon.
4. In the Middle Ages, lemon was considered an effective remedy for snake venom and plague.
5. The homeland of citrus is China. Someone calls India the birthplace of lemon. Probably both assumptions are true. But the indisputable fact is known that fruit came to Greece with soldiers. He was then called the apple of India. Someone thinks that lemon got to Europe with Arabs.
6. In Russia, lemon became famous in the 17th century. Then ordinary citizens could not afford it. Only noble nobles knew his taste. At that time, it was customary to order salted citrus from the Netherlands.
7. A simple Israeli farmer at his site managed to grow a lemon fruit weighing 5 kg. This was recorded and entered in the famous book of records. It should be noted that this was almost 15 years ago, and so far no one has managed to kill him.
8. There is even such an assumption that in the Bible the cause of contention was not an apple, but a lemon.

Now you know a lot about lemon and its zest. It is worth considering why throwing a lemon peel when there are many possibilities for its application. The main thing is to observe the measure and not abuse the fruit. Then it really will benefit and not harm health.

Photo of lemon zest