The benefits of Citrus fruits including oranges, lemons, limes, grapefruit and various others are an excellent source of vitamins; however, they offer a number of other benefits in addition to eating healthy. Citrus fruits grow on flowering trees as well as shrubs. They are know for being juicy, for their acidity and many have a sweet smell.
Benefits Of Citrus Fruits
Oranges – Everybody loves oranges and they are loaded with vitamins. From C to A, B-complex vitamins and minerals such potassium and calcium, this is a citrus fruit that can help to control blood pressure and reduce cholesterol levels. Additionally, orange peels have natural oils that are great for moisturizing the skin. They also have an antioxidant which helps to protect skin cells. As an exfoliating facial scrub, the peels can help skin look much younger and rejuvenated. They work as a mosquito repellent when the peel is rubbed on skin.
Lemons – Vitamin C is one of the health benefits of lemons. This citrus fruit contains citric acid, which is an acne-fighter. In addition, the alkaline properties of the lemon is known to kill bacteria that causes acne. This fruit also contains calcium, magnesium, pectin and limonene that helps to fight infection. The juice of lemons is effective for weight loss because it cleanses the liver and aids in digestion. Fresh squeezed lemon, or a couple drops of lemon essential works perfect for a cleansing drink with great benefits. Research also shows that lemon balm is calming and helps to eliminate nervousness, tension and anxiety.
Tangerines – This citrus fruit is a type of mandarin orange that contains Vitamin C, which boosts immunity. Tangerines also provide digestive benefits, and lowering cholesterol is yet another benefit. The white membrane between each segment of the tangerine helps to reduce cholesterol. Tangerines contain a flavonoid that works in conjunction with Vitamin C to support the formation of collagen. This is what gives the skin elasticity and support. As people age, collagen is not produced at the same rate as when they are younger. Eating tangerines can help to reduce wrinkles.
Limes – The benefits of citrus fruits such as limes are many as well. This fruit contains folate and calcium, two very important nutrients for women of all ages. Using the peel of the lime to make a mask to exfoliate the skin helps to reduce the build up of melanin. This build up is what causes age spots. In addition to these benefits, limes have a compound called limonoid that helps to prevent certain cancers including blood, stomach and colon cancer. Lime juice has also shown to be more beneficial at fighting free radicals than green tea. This is because it stays in the system longer. Lime juice can aid in preventing kidney stones from forming because of the high citric acid content.
Grapefruit – Full of Vitamin C and other nutrients, grapefruit can help to decrease the symptoms of colds. Research has shown they aid in reducing the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis and asthma. In addition, fruits with high Vitamin C content help reduce the risk of developing cancer, stroke and heart disease. This beneficial fruit has pectin, a soluble fiber. Pectin can reduce the build up of plaque in the blood vessel walls. The juice of the Ruby Red grapefruit contains lycopene known to aid in preventing bad cholesterol from damaging the walls of arteries.
Clementines – Technically, the clementine is a variety of the mandarin orange; however, they generally do not contain seeds. They are sometimes called seedless tangerines. They contain Vitamin C, A, B6, E, potassium, iron, calcium, folate and a variety of other nutrients. As such, they provide many health benefits. Research has shown that the aroma of the clementine causes serotonin to be released by the brain. This is a neurotransmitter that affects several things such as body temperature, mood, sleep and the regulation of blood pressure. This citrus fruit is a good stress reliever and has a calming effect as well as a mood elevator.
Satsumas –Often called the ‘new citrus’ this fruit is a type of mandarin and grows in Alabama and Louisiana. It has a short growing season so the satsuma is not available year round. They provide high levels of Vitamin C and fiber and are easy to peel so they are a good, quick snack. Also used as an ingredient in face peels, satsumas are rich in antioxidants. Because this citrus fruit has Vitamin C, potassium and folate, it can help the immune system to fight colds and flu. California satsumas have a large amount of synephrine, which is a natural antihistamine.
Key Limes – Key limes are similar to a regular lime but are smaller and more round. They also have a stronger smell, more seeds and the flavor is intense when compared to regular limes. Key limes have many of the same health benefits of regular limes such as antioxidant properties provided by Vitamin C. This aids in protecting cells of the body from disease. Additionally, Vitamin C reduces inflammation in the body and relieves the symptoms of arthritis. This citrus fruit is high in potassium, calcium, Vitamin B6 and folic acid. Key limes also have bioflavanoids allowing them to act as a natural antihistamine. The bioflavaoids provide other benefits. They have antibiotic effects that help to protect the body from bacteria. They contain limonin, which has shown to help prevent mouth, stomach, colon, breast, skin and lung cancer.
Due to the vast benefits of Citrus fruits they are the perfect choice for everything from fighting disease and illness to weight-loss and younger looking skin. I hope you have enjoyed learning more about the natural health benefits of citrus fruits. I thought you would like a citrus fruit salad recipe that is perfect anytime – summer or winter.
Summer Citrus Salad RecipeIngredients:1 grapefruit2 oranges – 1 mandarin and 1 navel1 lime1 tablespoon olive oil1 tablespoon lemon juice½ teaspoon salt1 head of lettuce of your choiceZest the lime and mandarin orange. Peel and section or slice the grapefruit, oranges and lime. Place the sliced fruit in a bowl. In another bowl, mix the mandarin orange zest, the lime zest, lemon juice, olive oil and salt. Pour this mixture over the fruit and serve over lettuce for a cool, refreshing summer salad.
Disclosure: I am not a medical professional. The statements and suggestions given here have not been evaluated by the FDA. I am simply sharing ideas and suggestions on how to use citrus fruits in everyday life. I assume no liability for the way you choose to consume and use citrus fruits. When in doubt, consult professional advice and research properly for yourself. Use your good judgement and act responsibly.
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