Lemon peel contains the high presence of flavanones and many polymethoxylated flavones, which are very rare in other plants. These compounds, not only play an important physiological and ecological role, but are also of commercial interest because of their multitude of applications in the food and pharmaceutical industries. The citrus peel oils show strong antimicrobial activity.
The antimicrobial and antioxidant activity on lemon being associated with flavonoids and essential oil. Flavonoids such as hesperidine and naringin are beneficial nutrients that enhance the activity of white blood cells and boost the body’s defenses.
The peel of lemon fruits is a rich source of flavonoid glycosides, coumarins, β and γ- sitosterol, glycosides and volatile oils. Essential oil includes monoterpenes, sesquiterpenese, alcohols, aldehydes, ketones and esters. Monoterpenes had a higher antimicrobial activity than did hydrocarbons. Carvone and limonene were active against wide spectrum of antifungal and antimicrobial activity.
Lemon peel contain high amounts of Vitamin C and calcium and thus helps in improving and maintaining bone health. It also helps in preventing bone related diseases like inflammatory polyarthritis, osteoporosis and rheumatoid arthritis.
Lemon peels are known to promote weight loss and may slow down fat accumulation. This is because they contain pectin fibre, which may help in weight loss by making the person feel full for longer. Additionally, lemon peels also contain polyphenols, which have been known to keep body fat away.
Lemon peels the greater antimicrobial and antioxidant activity. The lemon peel is a significant antimicrobial agent along with an astringent property.
Simple use of lemon juice can prevent such types of infections and could help in keeping a good and healthy skin.
Lemon peel: Therapeutic value
