Don’t throw out those lemon peels! Most people don’t realise how nutritionally valuable they are to support the immune system. It is well known that freshly squeezed lemon in a glass of water or cup of herbal tea has wonderful digestive and gut health benefits, but you may be surprised to find out that the lemon peel has very special medicinal properties that help the body combat infection.
Lemon is an important medicinal plant of the family Rutaceae. Studies have found lemon peel is full of nutrients including Vitamin C, potassium, calcium, magnesium and pectin. Pectin is a soluble fibre which is great for gut health, weight loss and the cardiovascular system. It brings more hydration to the bowel, which supports colon health and the microbiome.
Lemon peel may even have several anti-cancer properties because it works to detox and neutralise acidic waste products and free radicals, which supports pH balance.
MOVE THE LYMPH: To help circulation and the elimination of protein wastes via the lymph system you can do moderate exercise, or have magnesium massages. You can also increase detox by sweating in a sauna or hot bath.
DIGEST: To support stomach digestion you can eat papaya or pineapple for their digestive enzymes. When we are sick, the body takes energy away from digestion and gives it to the immune system. We can fast with teas and juices, or eat light and easy-to-digest foods, such as well-cooked soups or broth, to speed up recovery time.
pH BALANCE: Lemon water and peels also help digestion, cleansing and pH balance. For extra pH buffering, which inhibits pathogenic bacteria, use bicarbonate of soda (half a teaspoon in a glass of water on an empty stomach).
MAGNESIUM and SUNSHINE for VITAMIN D: Studies show that vitamin D is essential for immune system function. You also need enough magnesium to make vitamin D in the skin.
HYDRATION: Drinking herbal teas helps hydration and provides antioxidant and antibacterial plant power, which supports the kidneys and liver. Remember to add the lemon peel!
SLEEP: We need plenty of restful sleep so we’re not over-stressing our body. Sleep is when the body repairs itself and does a lot of cleaning housework. Ensure you have optimal magnesium levels to dampen stress, sleep better and boost the immune system. A magnesium massage works a treat!
By Sandy Sanderson © 2022
Full article www.elektramagnesium.com.au/immune-system-boost-with-lemon-peel/
