Don’t discard those lemon peels – infuse them in oil for a treasure trove of health benefits! Lemon peels are not just culinary delights but are packed with properties beneficial for both kitchen use and natural remedies. Renowned for their use in traditional Amalfi desserts and the famous Limoncello liqueur, lemon peels offer much more. Let’s explore an ancient, yet popular, remedy.
Lemon Peel Oil: An Ancient Remedy
You can transform lemon peels into a beneficial oil known as Oleolith. This completely natural remedy revitalizes the body and offers unparalleled well-being.
Originating from ancient times, Oleolith isn’t limited to lemon peels but can be made from various vegetables infused in a plant oil. The peels are marinated in oil, allowing the extraction of beneficial oils from the peels (or any plant you choose to infuse), combined with the moisturizing and preserving properties of extra virgin olive oil.
Extra virgin olive oil acts as a solvent, dissolving fat-soluble substances abundant in plants. This extraction takes place through cold maceration, combining the properties and aromas of lemon with the mixture of antioxidant substances in the olive oil, known for being rich in polyphenols.
The benefits of this oil for our body are diverse. It can be used as a tonic, stimulating venous return. When used as a massage oil on damp extremities, it can reactivate circulation.
How to Prepare Lemon Oil: Steps and Tips
Lemon oil can serve as a versatile massage oil and can even be mixed with salt to create an exfoliating scrub. It’s also effective in refreshing the eye contour, lightening dark circles and bags by promoting microcirculation, giving your eyes and face clearer lines and a fresher appearance.
To prepare, you’ll need:
- 100 grams of lemon peel
- 100 grams of extra virgin olive oil (EVO)
The rule of thumb is that the amount of lemon peel should be about half that of the oil. The lemons must be finely sliced, keeping the peel intact while removing the white part. The peels should dry for about two days in the air or, ideally, in the sun.
The oil should be half the volume of the dried peels. This ratio is crucial if you’re adjusting the quantities. Drying the peels prevents mold formation. Then, place the lemon peels in a sterilized glass container and pour enough oil to completely cover the peels. Shake the jar frequently to ensure the peels are always submerged.
