The Health Benefits of Citrus Fruit

This post and photography are courtesy of Nic Abraham.

It’s common knowledge that citrus fruits, such as oranges, contain a lot of vitamin C. What may not be so known is that citrus fruits are great for treating more than just the common cold. For example, they are a good source of antioxidants and fiber, not to mention, they are a heart-healthy food. Here is just a glimpse of how awesome citrus fruits are for hair, health, and skin.

How Citrus Benefits Hair

Helps Fight Dandruff
Rubbing lemon directly on the scalp is an effective remedy against dandruff and “itchy scalp”. This is because lemons contain citric acid, flavonoid, iron and vitamin C. The fruit also helps balance the scalp’s pH, reduce excess oil and strengthen hair follicles.

Nourishes and Boosts Hair Growth
Lemons and limes can work wonders on hair. Regular usage will unclog pores and promote healthy hair follicles leading to growth. If your hair needs a little TLC, try one of these remedies once a week.

Remedy #1

Ingredients

• 1 Tbsp. coconut oil
• 1 Tbsp. lemon juice

Instructions

1.  Mix both ingredients together in a bowl.
2. Gently massage the mixture into your scalp for a few seconds
3. Leave it on for 20 minutes.
4. Rinse using a mild shampoo.

Remedy #2

Ingredients

• 1 Tbsp. lime juice
• 1 Tbsp. Manuka Honey

Instructions

1. Mix both ingredients together in a bowl.
2. Massage into damp hair.
3. Leave on for 10 minutes.
4. Rinse thoroughly.

Click Here to Print the Recipes for Citrus Hair Remedies.

Combats Oily Hair
Rinsing hair with a mixture of lime juice and water can balance hair moisture and revive limp, dull hair. Try this rinse once a week.

How Citrus Benefits Health

Improves Blood Flow and Circulation
Grapefruits, lemons, limes and oranges are packed full of antioxidants. These citrus fruits decrease inflammation, reduce blood pressure and improve blood flow.

Promotes Weight Loss
Grapefruit has always been seen as beneficial for weight loss. Consuming this fruit reduces the urge to overeat because it regulates digestive juices and is high in fiber. Grapefruit also helps protect the body from type 2 diabetes. What’s more, limes can also help prevent weight gain and the urge to overeat. The citric acid burns fat, which proves to be an excellent aid in any weight loss journey.

How Citrus Benefits Skin

Acts as a Natural Moisturizer
Orange and lemon peels or pulp are great additions to any skincare routine. The antioxidants help remove dead skin cells and generate new skin cells keeping skin soft. The result is beautifully glowing skin. To achieve this glow at home, here’s an easy body scrub recipe.

Easy At-Home Body Scrub

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup sea salt or brown sugar
• 1/2 cup olive or coconut oil
• 1-2 slices of lemon
• 1-2 slices of orange

Instructions

1. Pour oil and sea salt/sugar into a blender.
2. Add fruit (peel and pulp) to the blender.
3. After mixing all the ingredients, scoop into a jar with a lid.
4. Massage onto wet or dry skin for several seconds.
5. Rinse with warm water.
6. Use once a week.

Click Here to Print the Recipe for Easy At-Home Body Scrub.

Promotes Younger-Looking Skin
Nowadays, many beauty brands offer a vitamin C serum to reduce wrinkles, lighten scars and brighten and rejuvenate skin. The antioxidants also improve elasticity and provide lots of hydration. Skin beautification using vitamin C can be done at home; however, if using a citrus fruit on the face, remember to do a patch test, dilute it and avoid the sun afterward.