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Turn to Nature for Refreshment

Look to the trees to awaken the mind and body. Why not pick energy-giving lemon – the oil is extracted from the rind of the fruit. It takes approximately 3,000 lemons to make only 2.5 pounds of pure lemon oil.

Pam Conrad, Certified Clinical Aromatherapist, Complementary Therapy Nurse Consultant and Founder of Aromas for HealingTM (aromasforhealing.com), studied advanced aromatherapy with some of the leading medical experts in the field. Conrad observes, “Lemon is antiseptic, antibacterial, and antiviral.” In addition to the pleasant scent, “The therapeutic properties offer protection from infections, offering an alternative to synthetic chemical cleaning agents,” notes Conrad. Lemon has even been used in European hospital settings. Conrad is presently develop- ing clinical aromatherapy programs in various hospitals by educating nurses (OB, oncology and hospice/ palliative care), as well as consulting and product development with Wellspring pharmacy at Community Hospitals.

Basic ways lemon may energize

More oomph! “Inhalation of the lemon oil is the fastest and most effective way for uplifting your mood and boosting your energy,” says Conrad. You may accomplish this with a diffuser, personal inhaler, or a drop on a tissue. A study pub- lished in the Journal of University of Occupational and Environmental Health (UOEH, 2005) revealed that, “Using lemon fragrance in a working environment mitigated exhaustion and maintained vigor.” Here’s an alternative: Have a container with lemon oil with you and take a whiff when you feel your tank is running low.

Refreshment is lemon’s hallmark, and it is known for its stim- ulating and revitalizing capability. The oil is intended for external purposes and is not used internally. The cheery scent of lemon on a cool spring breeze may send a ray of bliss. Lemon blends well with certain other essences like ginger and lavender.

Check the label. The word “fragrance” generally indicates the use of artificial perfumes. Instead, opt for high-quality 100 percent therapeutic grade essential oils.