Eureka lemons help build a good reputation for this fruit in terms of dietary use as well as the health benefits.

Not only are they a refresher, but also a great natural component for many recipes and remedies across the world.

In this article, we gathered everything you need to know about eureka lemons, starting with a historical overview, a brief description of Eureka lemons, their health benefits, the different uses, and the possible side effects before we finish we tips on how to buy and store this fruit.

But first, why do we call them lemons?

Origin of the word “lemon”:

The first mention of lemon is found in old Chinese scripts that date back to 1175.

Those old writings show that the lemon was probably introduced to China between the 11^th and 12^th centuries.

There is no archaeological proof to determine the origin of lemons but some researchers believe they originated in the Eastern Himalayan region of South China (Upper Burma).

We can try to trace the word “lemon” which was first “Limon”, a term borrowed from the Italian word “Limone”.

That Italian word itself was derived from the Arabic-Persian “limûn”.

The word “Limon” made it to the French language in 1351, which was the inspiration for the word “lemonade”.

A few years after, the term “lemon” derived from the ancient Latin gradually replaced “Limon”.

How lemons made it to the USA?

Christopher Columbus first introduced both lemon and limes to America when he landed in Isabella (Haiti and Dominican Republic) to establish the first European permanent settlement.

From that point on, lemon cultivation quickly spread across Central America.

By the 16^th century, lemon trees were growing all around Central America and started reseeding naturally almost without human intervention.

Towards the end of the 16^th century, oranges, limes, and lemons were first planted in the city of St Augustine, Florida.

From that time on, lemon cultivation spread throughout the warmer regions of the US including California, Puerto Rico, and Hawaii.

Eureka lemons:

As one of the most popular types of lemon in the USA and around the world, Eureka lemons are a natural blessing.

This lemon variety has thick skin with a nipple-like top and a bright yellow color.

As for the content, eureka lemons are rich in oil which gives them a nice fragrance that emits a pleasant citrus scent.

Most people who tried eureka lemons for the first time claim that it has a slightly sour flavor with a tarty scent.

You don’t have to worry about finding eureka lemons as they are the type that you most likely find in grocery stores.

This is because the tree produces lemons all year round with a peak season between February and April.

Therefore, it offers a beneficial product for farmers as they can sell it throughout the year.

In the kitchen, eureka lemons are one of the main ingredients of many savory dishes.

In addition, the zest and juice of this type of lemon are also used to make syrups, marinades, and cocktails.

Benefits of eureka lemons:

Health benefits of eureka lemons:

Lemons are not just characterized by a unique citrus flavor, but they are full of many vitamins and minerals.

Nowadays, the health and cosmetic fields are also using these fruits for their many virtues and nutrients.

An average Eureka lemon weight about 7 ounces (200g) and contains:

• Calories: 40
• Fibers: 8.5g
• Proteins: 2.5g
• Carbs: 21g
• A vitamin: 4%
• B1 vitamin: 7%
• B6 vitamin: 11%
• C vitamin: 250%
• Potassium: 9%
• Calcium: 13%
• Iron: 9%
• Copper: 25%
• Magnesium: 7%
• Phosphorus: 2%
• Phytosterols: 7%

Could prevent cancer:

There are no doubts about the danger of cancer and no one can argue that the only way out is through treatment.

Nonetheless, it is possible to reduce the risk of developing cancer by making small changes to our diets and lifestyle.

Among the easy changes in our diets, scientists recommend consuming lemons as they can protect us from cancer. Cancer and food – Better Health Channel

For instance, Eureka lemons are rich in flavonoids which are plant chemicals with anticancerous properties.

Help losing weight:

Several mice studies confirm that polyphenols in lemons can indeed control obesity.

This is because such polyphenols have a strong efficiency in preventing the accumulation of body fats.

Also, nutritionists recommend consuming natural lemon drinks (lemonade…) as a detox to reduce fat from the body.

Another abundant nutrient in eureka lemons is vitamin c which is the most efficient component for weight loss.

Good for the heart:

Consuming eureka lemons would have a great impact on the well-being of the heart.

This is because this fruit is rich in vitamin c, a nutrient that can reduce the risk of heart disease.

Many studies show the great effect of vitamin C as it helps the body have more control over blood pressure.

In addition, Eureka lemons are rich in flavonoids which can treat atherosclerosis and reduce plaque in arteries.

As a result, the arteries and veins in the body are less clogged and that means a lower risk of strokes.

A natural remedy for fever:

Having a fever is generally one of the body’s immune responses to fight a viral and bacterial infection.

By raising the body’s temperature, most bacteria and parasites have a lower chance of surviving.

However, this immune response also comes with joints pain and overall body fatigue.

Since Eureka lemons are rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, they may as well help fight infections and therefore reduce the time needed for a fever.

Help recover the liver:

Some studies show great results in terms of the efficiency of lemons in protecting alcohol-affected livers.

Mostly, this is because lemons have hepatoprotective properties that can detoxify the liver and prevent its damage.

Consuming juice made from natural eureka lemons may as well help the recovery of an injured liver.

Even though more human trials studied are needed, specialists recommend lemons to maintain a healthy liver.

Good for the respiratory system:

Again, thanks to the anti-infection properties of lemons, they also help maintain the well-being of the respiratory system.

Whether it’s coughing, asthma, pneumonia, or any other lung trouble, it is always caused by a respiratory tract infection.

Eureka lemons are a great source of vitamin C and other anti-inflammatory components which can help fight infections.

Because of that, it is very recommended to consume lemons as part of natural treatment to protect the respiratory system.

Other benefits of Eureka lemons:

• Cleans the intestines of accumulated toxins.
• Reduces risk of Jaundice.
• Maintains liver health and protects it from diseases.
• Mix 1 tbsp of lemon juice in a cup of water and drink it daily to detoxify your body.
• Reduces throat infections because of its abundance of vitamin C.
• Helps balance stomach acidity.
• By drinking one cup of lemon juice a day you will help your body dissolve sand accumulated around the gallbladder.
• Treats various brain disorders such as epilepsy.
• Maintain the health of the eyes.
• Reduces risks of paralyzes.
• By inhaling lemon oil it improves breathing.
• Lowers the risk of constipation.
• Reduces risks of many stomach diseases.
• Thanks to its high antioxidant content it protects the body from various germs and toxins.
• Maintains teeth health.
• Reduces the risk of bleeding by maintaining blood vessels’ health.
• Regulates blood pressure.
• Reduces excess weight and helps burn fat.
• Expels mucus in the throat.
• May reduce the risk of developing cancer.
• Maintains heart health.
• Treats various respiratory diseases including asthma.
• Adjust blood sugar level.
• Strengthens the immune system.

Consuming eureka lemons:

Different uses of eureka lemons:

There are several ways to use eureka lemons as a natural remedy or in your diet, here are a few ideas:

• Lemon juice as a seasoning for salads.
• In a lemon tea recipe.
• Make pickled lemons.
• Grated to obtain lemon zest to use in sauces or baking recipes.
• As the main ingredient for a soda drink or Mojito.
• To make a refreshing lemonade drink.
• In a hair mask remedy to remove dandruff.
• To clean the microwave or the fridge.

Eureka lemons recipes:

Here are two easy-to-make lemon drinks you can try at home:

Lemon tea:

Ingredients:

• 1 teabag of your choice (preferably mint or ginger).
• 2 cups of water.
• 1 tbsp of lemon juice.
• One tsp of honey (or sugar).
• Mint leaves (optional).

Preparation:

• The same steps to make the tea we start by boiling the water in a pan.
• Then we pour the hot water into a cup and submerge the tea bag in it and leave it for 2 minutes.
• Add honey, lemon juice and mint leaves mix the drink well, and enjoy it!

Lemonade recipe:

Ingredients:

• Two eureka lemons.
• 2 tsp of sugar (preferably vanilla sugar).
• 2 cups of water.
• Ice cubes.

Preparation:

• Cut each lemon into 4 pieces.
• Pour the water into a bowl then squeeze the lemon pieces into it to the last drop.
• Now add sugar and mix it well.
• Filter the mix into a cup, add ice cubes and enjoy it!

Side effects of most types of lemons:

Eureka lemons and lemons, in general, are safe for moderate consumption, however, they could have some side effects including:

May damage the face:

Some people like to use lemons on their skin as a natural remedy for infections or pimples…

Nonetheless, if the use of lemon on the face is frequent, there may be some complications including:

• Excessive dryness of the skin may cause skin breakage.
• Lost in some skin color pigments which create a non-even color distribution on the face.
• Increase the sensitivity of the skin towards sunlight.
• Could irritate pimples due to their acidic properties which may leave long-lasting skin marks.

Lemon allergy:

Some people may have an allergy to lemons as they may experience skin rash when they touch the fruit.

Also, some people could experience oral allergy when they consume lemon and ay experience:

• Sore throat.
• Tongue and lips swelling.
• Fever.
• Anaphylaxis reaction (requires hospitalization).

Other side effects of lemons:

Among the possible harmful effects of lemon we mention:

• Increases urination which raises the risk of dehydration.
• If it comes into direct contact with the eye, it may damage its tissue.
• Causes a burning sensation in the stomach for pregnant women.
• Erodes tooth enamel.

How to store lemon?

Generally speaking, most types of lemons stay soft and fresh a week after purchase.

However, the best way to store them is by placing them at room temperature, away from light and other fruits.

There is another trick to storing lemons by placing them in a bowl of water and placing the bowl in the refrigerator.

Finally, for those who want to use lemons for a longer time, you can make lemon juice, put it in an airtight bag, and freeze it.

How to buy the best lemons?

The common types of lemons such as Eureka or Meyer are sold by weight in bulk or nets at grocery stores and supermarkets.

Hold on to the lemon, and try squeezing it gently in your hand, it must be soft on the inside with a spongy silk skin.

As for the rare varieties, you can find them in enclaves such as Chinatown or on the internet.

The vast majority of lemons are treated with diphenyl or thiabendazole and you should be able to see that in a notice.