Lemons

During the dreary days of winter, lemons can provide another kind of sunshine in our homes, they can help us clean, or even bring highlights to our hair.  Lemons are cheap and plentiful and so useful in so many ways.  Here are just a few:

Sore throat relief.
Cut a lemon in half and roast it over an open flame just until the edges and flesh begin to turn brown.  Squeeze the juice of the lemon and add a heaping spoonful of honey and enough hot water to make it drinkable.  Mix it all together and drink allowing it to soothe your sore throat.

Laundry aid
In lieu of bleach, add 1/3 to 1/2 cup of fresh lemon juice to your washing machine when washing your towels.  They will be naturally brightened and have a fresh very clean scent.

Hair brightener and lightener
Slice two lemons and simmer in water to cover them for about 1 hour adding more water if needed.  Strain the liquid and store in a spray bottle.  Spray on your hair and leave in for 1 hour then rinse and shampoo.  This is especially effective if you are in the sun.

Keeping fruit fresh

When you have sliced apples, pears and avocados, squeeze a bit of lemon juice over the fruit to keep the cut fruit from turning brown until ready to eat.

Toothpick holder
When serving foods at a party that require using toothpicks, it is always a problem knowing what to do with those used toothpicks which frequently end up all over the table or the floor.  Offer your guests this alternative instead.  Place a lemon with a small spot saved off on one side to make it sit stabilized on the table or on a small plate.  Make a little sign that indicates “Place Used Picks Here” and place a couple of toothpicks in the lemon to provide an example for people of how to use this clever idea.

Removing stains
When your favorite mug has become coffee or tea stained, use the white pithy side of the lemon rind with a bit of sea salt and say goodbye to those ugly stains.

Centerpiece
When the weather is dark and dreary, grab some lemons, (be sure to keep some of the leaves if you are clipping them from your own tree), and bring a little a sunshine into the house.

Lemons are inexpensive, cheery and good for so many things.  If you don’t have a tree, plant one.  And in the meantime, grab a bag the next time you’re at the market.