Lemon essential oil comes from the rind of the lemon fruit, which is generally collected by a process called "expression".  This process can be performed in essentially 2 different ways.  The first way is by cutting the fruit in half, removing the pulp, then soaking the remaining rind in water until the pith absorbs enough water to make it soft and pliable.  The softened rind is then wrapped around a sponge with the yellow side next to the sponge, and the essential oil is absorbed by that sponge, which is periodically squeezed into a receptacle, and then decanted.  The second method involves piercing and stripping the yellow part of the rind either through a device called an "Eculle a piquer", or a larger machine with a hopper, and then allowing the essential oils and other cell contents to collect, and then the essential oils are separated from the other liquids by either allowing them to naturally rise to the top and be decanted, or the helped along by spinning the liquids in a centrifuge, and then decanted.  Most citrus essential oils are harvested using expression.

Lemon essential oil has a bright, fresh, tangy and sweet odour; and is generally a yellow to yellow-green colour.

Lemon oil is heavily used as a flavouring in foods and pharmaceutical preparations, and as a fragrance in many perfumes, detergents and soaps. 

In the world of Clinical Aromatherapy, we use Lemon essential oil for several issues.  It is an excellent tonic for the circulatory system in that it helps reduce cholesterol, aids in breaking up plaque deposits in arteries, and reduces blood viscosity.  It also is useful in treating varicose veins and broken capillaries.  Lemon oil relieves symptoms of colds, flu and bronchitis, and stimulates the production of white blood cells which ward off bacteria.  It is mildly detoxifying and can be used to treat cellulite.  In skin care, Lemon is used for acne and boils, as it has astringent properties.  (As with any citrus oil, one should take care not to apply it to the skin and then go out into the sun (or a tanning bed) as it is phototoxic and could cause a serious burn) Used in a spritzer, Lemon oil is a very effective air disinfectant, and is one of many oils that is considered to be "Anti-MRSA".  When combined in a diffuser with Rosemary (Rosemarinus officinalis), it makes a very powerful flu prevention blend.

Some of its more subtle uses are those that impact the nervous system, and emotions.  Lemon oil can cut through confusion, and stimulate logical, rational thinking, and aids in making decisions.  Some say it can be very calming, and it is also said to be an oil to "open the heart", and spiritually cleansing.

Whatever use you put it to, the scent is sure to bring forward your cheerful side!