Lemon peels are rich in valuable nutrients: Do you know what happens when you infuse them in oil? An age-old home remedy you’ll use again and again.
Lemon peels should never be thrown away. In fact, they can be used for cooking and much more.
Lemon zest is highly prized in culinary arts, used to enhance desserts, such as those typical of the Amalfi Coast, or to make delicious liqueurs like Limoncello. It can also be used to create all-natural remedies that are becoming increasingly popular, not only in Italy. Let’s take a look at one of them.
Lemon peels in oil: an age-old remedy
Lemon peels can also be used to produce an oil called oleolite. It is a purely natural remedy that gives the body vitality and unparalleled well-being.
Oleolite, in particular, has its origins in antiquity and can be produced not only from lemon peels but also from various plants blended with a vegetable oil. The lemon peels are macerated in the oil . In this way, the benefits of the oils contained in the peels (or the chosen plants) are combined with the moisturizing and preservative properties of extra virgin olive oil.
In fact, the oil acts as a solvent and can dissolve all fat-soluble substances that are abundant in plants. Extraction is carried out by cold pressing these components.
The properties of the lemon and its aromas combine with the mixture of antioxidant substances in the extra virgin olive oil, which is particularly rich in polyphenols.
Oil offers numerous benefits to our bodies. It can be used as a tonic and stimulate venous return . Furthermore, when applied as a massage oil to moist limbs, it stimulates blood circulation.
How to make lemon oil: Procedure and tips
Lemon oil is a versatile massage oil and, when mixed with salt, can be used as a scrub. It refreshes the eye area, reduces dark circles and puffiness by improving microcirculation, and thus ensures a clearer and refreshed complexion.
To prepare, you will need:
- 100 grams of lemon peel
- EVO oil, in a quantity of 100 grams
As a rule of thumb, the amount of lemon zest should be exactly half the amount of oil. The lemons should be cut into very thin slices , leaving the zest intact and removing the white pith. The zest should be left to air dry for about two days, or even better, in the sun.
The amount of oil should be half the amount of lemon peel. The given dosage serves as a preparation example. If you wish to increase the quantities, always ensure the correct ratio of the two ingredients. Drying prevents mold growth. Place the lemon peels in a previously sterilized glass jar. Now pour the oil over them, making sure the peels are completely covered . Shake the jar regularly so that the peels remain coated with oil.
The jar should be stored in a cool, dark place for one month . After that, the contents should be filtered, the peels removed, and the remainder stored in a very clean glass container.