The zesty scent of lemon
What if a simple sniff could wake you up and energize you for hours? Ditch the coffee because we’re talking about lemon with its zesty, fresh citrus smell – it might be the perfect “good morning” drink. It’s often used in massage oils, perfumes and soaps due to its energizing smell. It’s also associated with cleanliness in the human psyche, making it the go-to scent for most cleaning products.
The lemon tree originates from South-East Asia and was eventually introduced into Europe. Lemon was discovered to be a digestive, blood cleanser and sweetened the breath after a heavy meal. They became most famous when they were issued to counteract the effects of scurvy on the British Navy. Talk about a life saver!
The healing powers of lemon
Lemon oil has many magical healing powers that do a whole lot more than wake you up. It’s an antiseptic and antiviral. Made into a hot drink with honey, the lemon fruit and peel have soothed colds, fevers, sore throat and coughs for centuries. Studies show that the oil increases the activity of the immune system. It also helps combat a variety of viral and bacterial infections. Also, it helps with water retention and mineral absorption making it an amazing aid for weight loss.
Water with fresh lemon juice is the new power drink of choice for many. Starting your day with a glass helps boost your immune system, control your weight and detoxes your liver. So simple, yet so powerful and beneficial!
Aromatherapy
In Japan the lemon essential oil is diffused through the air systems of offices and factories because it increases concentration and the ability to memorize and noticeably reduces mistakes. Research confirms that the aroma of lemon is relaxing to brain waves, which improves concentration. Also, it appears to stimulate the mind while calming emotions, meaning sniffing lemon can be helpful when making decisions. Read more at HowStuffWorks.com
We’ve found a recipe to make your own lemon scented candle so you can benefit from the powerful aroma of lemon:
Tools Materials
• Glass container • Wax flakes
• Saucepan or pot • Pre-waxed candle wicks
• Skewers or chopsticks • Containers for candles
• Tape • Essential oils
• Stove
• Scissors
Directions
Prep work
You’ll want to start off by cleaning your glass containers. Using regular dish soap will do the job, just make sure you dry them thoroughly when you’re done.
Step 1: Set up your wicks
To set up the candlewicks in your containers, you’ll want to lay the metal piece flat against the bottom. Then use your chopsticks/skewers to hold up the wicks, and tape the ends of the chopsticks to keep everything in place.
Step 2: Measure the wax flakes
Measure out the amount of candle wax flakes you’ll need for each of your containers. The rule of thumb is two times the amount of wax flakes to fill each container.
Step 3: Melt the wax
Fill a saucepan with water to about the halfway mark. Place your measured amount of wax flakes in the glass container. Then place the glass container in the saucepan. Be sure the water level is low enough, so it won’t splash into the wax flakes when it starts to boil. Turn your stove on to medium-high, and use a metal spoon to stir occasionally.
Step 4: Add scent
Once all the wax is completely melted, remove the wax mixture from the stove. My rule of thumb is 10 drops of essential oil per 16 fl. oz. It makes for a moderately scented candle. Use less or more depending on taste, and feel free to experiment and mix oils to create a scent of your own. Add the measured amount of essential oil to your wax mixture and give it a good stir to make sure it’s well-mixed.
Step 5: Pour the wax
Make sure your containers are in a good location where they won’t need to be moved for a few hours. Then slowly pour your melted wax mixture into your containers.
Step 6: Set your candle
Allow 3-4 hours for your candles to cool and solidify. It’s best to let them solidify at room temperature, so the cooling process is gradual. This prevents cracks in the wax.
