Citrus flavonoids appears to impact blood and microvascular endothelial cells, and it is not surprising that the two main areas of research on the biological actions. Epidemiological and animal studies point to a possible protective effect of flavonoid against cardiovascular diseases and some types of cancers.

Although flavonoids have been studied for about 50 years, the cellular mechanisms involved in their biological action are still not completely known. Many of the pharmacological properties of citrus flavonoids can be linked to the abilities of these compounds to inhibit enzymes involved in cell activation. Attempts to control cancer involve a variety of means, including the use of suppressing, blocking, and transforming agents.

Suppressing agents prevent the formation of new cancers from reaching critical initiation sites, while transformation agents act to facilitate the metabolism of carcinogenic components into less toxic materials or prevent  their biological actions. Many epidemiological studies have shown that regular flavonoid intake is associated with a reduced mainly antithrombotic, anti-ischemic, anti-oxidant and vasorelaxant.

It is suggested that flavonoids decrease the risk of coronary  heart disease by three major actions: improving coronary vasodilation, decreasing the ability of platelets in the blood to clot and preventing low-density lipoproteins (LDL) from oxidizing. the anti-inflammatory properties of the citrus flavonoids have also been studied.

The anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of citrus flavonoids can play a key role in their activity against several degenerative diseases and particularly brain disease. The most abundant citrus flavonoids are flavanones, such as hesperidin, naringin, or neohesperidin.

LEMONS

Among the many citrus varieties, lemons are packed with vitamins, antioxidants and  flavonoids. They offer a variety of medicinal benefits, including antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties.

Lemons are rich in vitamin C, which helps reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. The flavonoids found in lemons also reduce inflammation, dyslipidemia, endothelial dysfunction and atherosclerosis. A mixture of garlic and lemon juice improved lipid levels and blood pressure, all risk factors for heart diseases.

The antioxidants in lemons may help protect liver health, several studies have shown topical application of vitamin C can slow the early signs of skin aging, prevent photoaging and help treat hyperpigmentation, skin hydration and elasticity by promoting collagen synthesis.

Lemons can naturally clean and deodorize your home, and can be used as an insect repellent and week killer. Although generally well-tolerated, some people are allergic to lemon, or develop contact dermatitis with repeating exposure to it.

Drinking lemon water through a straw can reduce enamel erosion. Drinking too much can lead to heartburn and nausea. It is an excellent diuretic.

FACT CHECK

The name is said to have been derived from an Asian word for “sour fruit.”

Lemons are technically berries.

Historians believe that lemons have been around since first century A.D.

It is believed that lemons have been cultivated from the Mediterranean.

California and Arizona produce 95% of the entire lemon crop.

Lemon trees can produce up to 600 pounds in a year and can grow up to 20 feet tall.

An average lemon holds three tablespoons of juice.

The juice of a lemon contains 5% of citric acid.

There are roughly fifteen calories in each lemon.

Sprinkling the juice on other fruits can prevent them from turning brown.

Lemon juice and hot water is good for a sore throat as it is anti-bacterial.

During the Renaissance, ladies used the juice of a lemon to redden their lips.

They prevent scurvy.

The heaviest lemon was 11 pounds, 9.7 ounces in 2003.

For more facts see “27 Juicy Facts About Lemons.” Written by Zoe Adams. Updated March 17, 2021.