Plants: L

Lemon

The lemon is a species of small evergreen tree in the flowering plant family Rutaceae, native to Asia, primarily Northeast India (Assam), Northern Myanmar, or China. Lemon is a rich source of vitamin C, providing 64% of the Daily Value in a 100 g reference amount (table). Other essential nutrients are low in content. Lemon oil may be used in aromatherapy. Lemon oil aroma does not influence the human immune system, but may contribute to relaxation. Lemon oil increases appetite, quenches thirst, purifies the blood, lowers fever and blood pressure, strengthens the heart, prevents rheumatism and hardening of the arteries. It facilitates the digestion process, relieves stomach pains, helps to remove sand and stones from the kidney, is useful against colds, flu, asthma and bronchitis. Lemon oil removes acne and post-acne scars, cleanses and refreshes the skin. Eliminates tooth yellowing and decay, whitens teeth and strengthens gums.

Lavender

Lavender, especially lavender oil is used to moisturize skin. Asides of having a pleasant smell, suitable for many scented products such as perfumes, bath and body care products; lavender also has good antiseptic properties. As a matter of fact, the French Academy of Medicine used it as a disinfectant during the World War II.

The largest producer of lavender is France, the Provence region being famous for its large lavender fields. More than 30% of the world lavender production comes from France. Prices are constantly increasing on the lavender market, as well as consumer demand, because lavender cultures have faced several difficulties over the last years, mainly due to pests and climate change.