When Life Gives you Lemons

Citrus scents have strong Summer associations. Here are some things you need to know about these bright orbs of the season.

The Professor of Electrical Engineering at the National University of Science and Technology stood in our living room wearing a painful expression. His eyes were squeezed shut and his mouth puckered in pain. As my mother re-entered the room, he forced his face into a smile and thanked her for the lovely lemonade. He was the first guest to our home in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe and my mother and I had picked the lemons in our garden to make him a drink. Unfortunately, we had forgotten the sugar syrup part of the recipe. Our guest bravely downed a large glass of bitter juice and we laugh about it to this day.
The low molecular weight of oils like Lemon, Bitter Orange, Bergamot, Lime and Grapefruit make them ideal opening notes for fragrances. The light, zesty notes speak of fresh fruit, Summery strolls through citrus groves and all the goodness that these Vitamin C-rich products represent. Here are some of the other benefits that might encourage you to add citrus to your shopping list:

Make Lemonade

The phrase: When life gives you lemons, make lemonade, was the inspiration for Beyonce’s 2016 album Lemonade, it was a lyric in an Eminem song and has been quoted by American Presidential candidates. It is attributed to anarchist Elbert Hubbard and encourages us to bring something good out of difficult circumstances.  So, find a good recipe and make some lemonade while the sun shines. It is a great antioxidant, aids digestion, boosts immunity and keeps your skin hydrated and clear.

Calorie Control

The humble grapefruit is rich in Vitamin C and Vitamin A and low in calories. The fact that it also has a high fibre content makes it an ideal way to curb those mid-morning cravings. Start the day with half a grapefruit this month when the fruit is at its peak.

Limes Sink

Limes sink and lemons float. After you’ve tested that theory, slice up the fruit and pop it in your water. Studies show that we are much more likely to drink water with a hint of flavour. Skip the sugary high street options and flavour your own for greater health benefits. Staying hydrated is essential for our skin, weight management and general health.

Mood-booster

Bergamot is a hybrid of lime and bitter orange. It is a highly prized ingredient in perfumery owing to its labour-intensive method of extraction. The scent is rich and significantly more rounded than the other citrus oils. A study published by the German Journal of Research in 2015 showed a relationship between the inhalation of Bergamot and the reduction of anxiety and stress. Look out for a fragrance that contains Bergamot to boost your mood and bring about a sense of calm.  
There are lots of wonderful, fresh fragrances that feature citrus oils. STORIES Nº. 01 is one of them. With its opening notes of Bergamot, Grapefruit and Orange Blossom it is sure to lighten your spirits and give you the fresh start you need this season.