Lemon: Difference between revisions

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Lemon (Citrus limon), pronounced LEH-mun, is a small, bright yellow citrus fruit known for its acidic juice and fragrant rind. It is valued for its high content of vitamin C (ascorbic acid) and citric acid, which gives it a distinct sour taste.

Scientific Classification[edit]

Scientific name: Citrus limon
Family: Rutaceae
Genus: Citrus
Species: limon

Description[edit]

Lemons are small, oval citrus fruits with a thick, textured rind and juicy pulp divided into segments. The juice, rind (zest), and even the leaves are used for culinary and medicinal purposes. Lemons are hybrids, believed to have evolved from a cross between citron (Citrus medica) and bitter orange (Citrus × aurantium).

History[edit]

Lemons are thought to have originated in northeastern India, northern Myanmar, or China over 2,500 years ago.
Introduced to the Mediterranean region via Arab traders by the 10th century CE.
Brought to the Americas by Christopher Columbus in 1493.
Widely cultivated today in countries including the United States (especially California and Florida), Spain, Italy, Mexico, and Argentina.

Cultivation[edit]

Lemon trees are small evergreen trees that thrive in subtropical and tropical climates.

Require full sunlight and well-drained soil
Sensitive to frost; best grown in warm, coastal or inland regions
Begin fruiting within 3–5 years of planting
Propagated through seeds, cuttings, or grafting

Popular Varieties:

Eureka lemon: Thick-skinned, high juice content, widely cultivated commercially
Lisbon lemon: Similar to Eureka, more cold-tolerant
Meyer lemon: Sweeter, thin-skinned hybrid between a lemon and a mandarin orange

Nutritional Content[edit]

Lemons are:

Low in calories
Rich in vitamin C (one lemon provides ~50% of the daily recommended intake)
Contain:
The peel contains flavonoids with antioxidant properties

Culinary Uses[edit]

Lemons are widely used in international cuisines for their juice, zest, and preserved forms.

Lemon juice: Used in marinades, dressings, drinks, and to enhance flavor
Lemon zest: Grated outer rind used in baking and cooking
Preserved lemons: Whole lemons fermented in salt and juice, used in Middle Eastern cuisine
Candied lemon peel: A sweet treat or garnish
Beverages: Base ingredient in lemonade, iced tea, and cocktails

Health Benefits[edit]

Lemons are often associated with a variety of potential health benefits:

**Immune support:** Due to high vitamin C content
**Antioxidant properties:** May reduce oxidative stress
**Kidney stone prevention:** Citric acid increases urinary citrate levels
**Digestive aid:** Anecdotally used in lemon water to stimulate digestion

Lemon Juice[edit]

Composed of ~5% to 6% citric acid
Has a pH around 2.2, making it highly acidic
Used to enhance flavor, tenderize meats, and preserve foods

Medicinal Uses[edit]

Used historically to prevent scurvy in sailors (vitamin C deficiency)
Included in some traditional remedies for sore throat and digestion
Lemon oil (from peel) is used in aromatherapy

Cultural and Artistic Significance[edit]

Lemons appear in art, literature, and cuisine throughout history:

Featured in still-life paintings symbolizing freshness or wealth
Frequently used in religious and festive dishes
Represented in Greco-Roman and Renaissance art

Products Derived from Lemon[edit]

Lemonade
Limoncello – a traditional Italian lemon liqueur
Lemon pickle – popular condiment in South Asian cuisine
Lemon meringue pie, lemon chicken, lemon tart, and more

Gallery[edit]

Diagram showing hybrid origins of citrus fruits, including lemon
Botanical illustration of Citrus limon
Sushi garnished with lemon slices
Oysters with lemon wedges and parsley
Chinese-style lemon chicken
Lemon meringue tart dessert
Fresh lemonade served with lemon slices
Homemade Italian limoncello
Ancient Egyptian fresco featuring citrus-like fruit (interpretative)
Still-life painting featuring lemons
Baroque still-life with citron and lemon

@@ Line 1: / Line 1: @@
-[[File:Lemon_-_whole_and_split.jpg|thumb]]
+[[File:Lemon_-_whole_and_split.jpg|thumb|right|Whole and sliced lemon showing rind and juicy pulp]]
-Pronounced LEH-mun, it is a small, yellow [[citrus]] [[fruit]] that is a source of [[citric acid]] and [[ascorbic acid]] also known as [[vitamin C]]
+[[File:Citrus limon - পাতিলেবু.jpg|thumb|left|Citrus limon, known as পাতিলেবু in Bengali]]
-==Scientific name==
+[[File:Lemon with white background.jpg|thumb|right|Lemon with white background highlighting texture and color]]
-The lemon (Citrus limon) is a species of small evergreen trees in the flowering plant family Rutaceae
+[[File:Citrus x limon, lemon on tree, Coín, Spain.jpg|thumb|left|Lemons growing on a tree in Coín, Spain]]
-'''Lemons''' (''Citrus limon'') are a citrus fruit native to Asia and a member of the Rutaceae family. They are characterized by their bright yellow color, acidic taste, and high vitamin C content. Lemons are widely used in cooking, baking, and beverages, as well as in cleaning and personal care products.
+[[File:Lemon Tree in Santa Clara California.jpg|thumb|right|Mature lemon tree in Santa Clara, California]]
-[[File:Lemons.jpg|thumb|right|Lemons on a tree]]
+[[File:CC Lemon bottles 2.jpg|Commercial lemon-based soft drink (Japan)|thumb]]
+[[File:Lemon Pickle.jpg|Traditional lemon pickle|thumb]]
+[[File:P1030323.JPG|Lemon slices in preparation|thumb]]
+'''Lemon''' (''Citrus limon''), pronounced '''LEH-mun''', is a small, bright yellow [[citrus]] [[fruit]] known for its acidic juice and fragrant rind. It is valued for its high content of [[vitamin C]] (ascorbic acid) and [[citric acid]], which gives it a distinct sour taste.
+== Scientific Classification ==
+* '''Scientific name:''' ''[[Citrus limon]]''
+* '''Family:''' [[Rutaceae]]
+* '''Genus:''' ''[[Citrus]]''
+* '''Species:''' ''limon''
+== Description ==
+Lemons are small, oval citrus fruits with a thick, textured rind and juicy pulp divided into segments. The juice, rind (zest), and even the leaves are used for culinary and medicinal purposes. Lemons are hybrids, believed to have evolved from a cross between [[citron]] (''Citrus medica'') and [[bitter orange]] (''Citrus × aurantium'').
 == History ==
-* Lemons are thought to have originated in northeastern India, northern Myanmar, or China, and have been cultivated for more than 2,500 years. They were brought to the Mediterranean region by Arab traders around the 10th century and later introduced to the Americas by Christopher Columbus in the late 15th century. Today, lemons are grown in many parts of the world, with major production areas including the United States (primarily California and Florida), Italy, Spain, and Mexico.
+* Lemons are thought to have originated in northeastern [[India]], northern [[Myanmar]], or [[China]] over 2,500 years ago.
+* Introduced to the Mediterranean region via [[Arab]] traders by the 10th century CE.
+* Brought to the [[Americas]] by [[Christopher Columbus]] in 1493.
+* Widely cultivated today in countries including the [[United States]] (especially [[California]] and [[Florida]]), [[Spain]], [[Italy]], [[Mexico]], and [[Argentina]].
 == Cultivation ==
-* Lemon trees are small, evergreen trees that grow well in subtropical and tropical climates. They require well-drained soil, consistent watering, and full sunlight. Lemon trees can be grown from seeds or propagated from cuttings and typically start producing fruit within 3 to 5 years.
+Lemon trees are small [[evergreen]] trees that thrive in [[subtropical]] and [[tropical]] climates.
-* There are several varieties of lemons, including:
-* '''Eureka:''' A common commercial variety, Eureka lemons are large, with a thick skin and a high juice content.
+* Require full sunlight and well-drained soil
-* '''Lisbon:''' Similar to Eureka lemons, Lisbon lemons have a thinner skin and are slightly more cold-tolerant.
+* Sensitive to frost; best grown in warm, coastal or inland regions
-* '''Meyer:''' A smaller, sweeter variety, Meyer lemons have a thin skin and a lower acidity than other lemons. They are a hybrid between a lemon and a mandarin orange.
+* Begin fruiting within 3–5 years of planting
+* Propagated through seeds, cuttings, or grafting
+'''Popular Varieties:'''
+* '''Eureka lemon:''' Thick-skinned, high juice content, widely cultivated commercially
+* '''Lisbon lemon:''' Similar to Eureka, more cold-tolerant
+* '''Meyer lemon:''' Sweeter, thin-skinned hybrid between a lemon and a mandarin orange
 == Nutritional Content ==
-* Lemons are low in calories and high in vitamin C, an essential nutrient that supports immune function, collagen production, and iron absorption. They also contain small amounts of other vitamins and minerals, including potassium, vitamin B6, and folate. The zest, or outer peel, of lemons is rich in plant compounds called flavonoids, which have antioxidant properties.
+Lemons are:
+* Low in calories
+* Rich in [[vitamin C]] (one lemon provides ~50% of the daily recommended intake)
+* Contain:
+** [[Potassium]]
+** [[Vitamin B6]]
+** [[Folate]]
+* The peel contains [[flavonoids]] with antioxidant properties
 == Culinary Uses ==
-* Lemons are a versatile ingredient in cooking and can be used in a variety of ways:
+[[File:Slice of Lemon.jpg|thumb|right|Thin slice of lemon, often used as a garnish]]
-* '''Juice:''' Lemon juice adds acidity and brightness to dishes, such as salad dressings, marinades, sauces, and beverages.
+Lemons are widely used in international cuisines for their juice, zest, and preserved forms.
-* '''Zest:''' Lemon zest, or grated lemon peel, imparts a concentrated lemon flavor and can be used in baked goods, desserts, and savory dishes.
-* '''Preserved lemons:''' Whole lemons can be preserved in salt and lemon juice, creating a tangy, intensely flavored condiment used in Middle Eastern and North African cuisine.
+* '''Lemon juice:''' Used in marinades, dressings, drinks, and to enhance flavor
-* '''Candied lemon peel:''' Lemon peels can be boiled in sugar syrup and dried, resulting in a sweet, citrusy treat or garnish.
+* '''Lemon zest:''' Grated outer rind used in baking and cooking
+* '''Preserved lemons:''' Whole lemons fermented in salt and juice, used in [[Middle Eastern cuisine]]
+* '''Candied lemon peel:''' A sweet treat or garnish
+* '''Beverages:''' Base ingredient in [[lemonade]], [[iced tea]], and cocktails
 == Health Benefits ==
-* Lemons have been associated with several health benefits, including:
+Lemons are often associated with a variety of potential health benefits:
-* '''Antioxidant properties:''' The vitamin C and flavonoids in lemons have antioxidant properties, which may help protect against cellular damage caused by free radicals.
-* '''Digestive health:''' Some people claim that lemon water can aid digestion and alleviate symptoms of indigestion, although scientific evidence is limited.
+* **Immune support:** Due to high [[vitamin C]] content
-* '''Kidney stone prevention:''' The citric acid in lemons may help prevent kidney stones by increasing urine volume and decreasing calcium levels
+* **Antioxidant properties:** May reduce oxidative stress
-==Culinary use==
+* **Kidney stone prevention:** [[Citric acid]] increases urinary citrate levels
-* The tree's yellow fruit is used for culinary and non-culinary purposes for its juice
+* **Digestive aid:** Anecdotally used in [[lemon water]] to stimulate digestion
-* The pulp and rind are also used in cooking as well as baking.
-* The juice of the lemon is about 5% to 6% citric acid
+== Lemon Juice ==
-* It has a pH of around 2.2, giving it a sour taste.
+* Composed of ~5% to 6% citric acid
-[[File:Lemon03.jpg|400px|right]]
+* Has a pH around 2.2, making it highly acidic
-==Lemon juice==
+* Used to enhance flavor, tenderize meats, and preserve foods
-The juice from lemons is used to flavor food and drink.
-==Medicinal value==
+== Medicinal Uses ==
-Lemons and lemon juice, rich in [[vitamin C]], is used to prevent [[scurvy]].
+* Used historically to prevent [[scurvy]] in sailors (vitamin C deficiency)
-==Oil==
+* Included in some traditional remedies for sore throat and digestion
-Lemon oil (scented liquid taken from the peel) is used in [[aromatherapy]].
+* Lemon oil (from peel) is used in [[aromatherapy]]
-==Scientific name==
-The scientific name of the lemon tree is [[Citrus limon]].
+== Cultural and Artistic Significance ==
-==Gallery==
+Lemons appear in art, literature, and cuisine throughout history:
+* Featured in still-life paintings symbolizing freshness or wealth
+* Frequently used in religious and festive dishes
+* Represented in Greco-Roman and Renaissance art
+== Products Derived from Lemon ==
+* [[Lemonade]]
+* [[Limoncello]] – a traditional Italian lemon liqueur
+* [[Lemon pickle]] – popular condiment in South Asian cuisine
+* [[Lemon meringue pie]], [[lemon chicken]], [[lemon tart]], and more
+== Gallery ==
 <gallery>
-Citrus limon - পাতিলেবু.jpg
+File:Hybrid origins of orange.svg|Diagram showing hybrid origins of citrus fruits, including lemon
-Lemon with white background.jpg
+File:Citrus x limon - Köhler–s Medizinal-Pflanzen-041.jpg|Botanical illustration of ''Citrus limon''
-Citrus x limon, lemon on tree, Coín, Spain.jpg
+File:Salmon roll sushi with lemon garnish, September 2008.jpg|Sushi garnished with lemon slices
-Lemon Tree in Santa Clara California.jpg
+File:Oysters served on ice, with lemon and parsley.jpg|Oysters with lemon wedges and parsley
-Citrus x limon flowers.jpg
+File:Tenglong Chinese Restaurant Lemon Chicken (37577556406).jpg|Chinese-style lemon chicken
-Slice of Lemon.jpg
+File:A Lemon Meringue Tart.jpg|Lemon meringue tart dessert
-CC Lemon bottles 2.jpg
+File:Lemonade - 27682817724.jpg|Fresh lemonade served with lemon slices
-Lemon Pickle.jpg
+File:Limoncello ready for drinking! (5585765455).jpg|Homemade Italian limoncello
+File:Tomb of Nakht.jpg|Ancient Egyptian fresco featuring citrus-like fruit (interpretative)
+File:Jacob Foppen van Es - Still life with pitcher.jpg|Still-life painting featuring lemons
+File:Giovanna Garzoni (Italian) - Still Life with Bowl of Citrons - Google Art Project.jpg|Baroque still-life with citron and lemon
 </gallery>
+== See Also ==
+* [[Citrus]]
+* [[Vitamin C]]
+* [[Lemonade]]
+* [[Limoncello]]
+* [[Lemon meringue pie]]
+* [[Lemon juice]]
+* [[Aromatherapy]]
+* [[Scurvy]]
+* [[Citrus taxonomy]]
 {{Citrus}}
 {{Lemon dishes}}
 {{Juice}}
-{{stb}}
 [[Category:Lemons| ]]
 [[Category:Citrus hybrids]]
-[[Category:Cocktail garnishes]]
 [[Category:Tropical agriculture]]
+[[Category:Fruit trees]]
 [[Category:Sour fruits]]
-[[Category:Fruit trees]]
+[[Category:Medicinal plants]]
-<gallery>
+[[Category:Cocktail garnishes]]
-File:P1030323.JPG|Lemon
+[[Category:Citrus]]
-File:Hybrid origins of orange.svg|Lemon
-File:Citrus x limon - Köhler–s Medizinal-Pflanzen-041.jpg|Lemon
-File:Salmon roll sushi with lemon garnish, September 2008.jpg|Lemon
-File:Oysters served on ice, with lemon and parsley.jpg|Lemon
-File:Tenglong Chinese Restaurant Lemon Chicken (37577556406).jpg|Lemon
-File:A Lemon Meringue Tart.jpg|Lemon
-File:Lemonade - 27682817724.jpg|Lemon
-File:Limoncello ready for drinking! (5585765455).jpg|Lemon
-File:Tomb of Nakht.jpg|Lemon
-File:Jacob Foppen van Es - Still life with pitcher.jpg|Lemon
-File:Giovanna Garzoni (Italian) - Still Life with Bowl of Citrons - Google Art Project.jpg|Lemon
-</gallery>