Rob (Kentucky) on 12/07/2025

Lemons contain powerful compounds called limonoids, which have shown promising results in preventing and slowing cancer cell growth. These compounds work in three distinct ways: they prevent cancer development, slow existing cancer growth, and potentially kill cancer cells. It has been proven that the peel of lemon contains upto 10x more nutrients than the juice and it contains compounds that fight against many diseases. The best way to get maximum benefits is to freeze them, grate and use.

The frozen peels have essential compounds that boost the immune system, normalize cholesterol levels and prevent cancer development. They are rich in nutrients like vitamins A, B6, C and E, iron, zinc, potassium, fibre and protein as well. They also contain flavonoids and limonoids that are known to strengthen the cells and fight free radicals. According to studies, lemon contains around d25 cancer-fighting compounds including vitamin C, glycosides, pectin and limonene. Studies have shown positive results in fighting tumours, diabetes, regulate blood sugar levels and blood pressure and also promote weight loss.

According to research, the peels have shown potential in removing all toxic waste from the human body. And that’s the reason they are used in the treatment of cancer patients in Indi and abroad as well. Lemons are also rich in polyphenols, which have at least 100 positive effects on cancer cells such as the antioxidant effect, says Leicester University’s professor Will Steward, head of clinical oncology.

According to the Institute of Health Sciences, after more than 20 laboratory tests since 1970, lemon extract destroys malignant cells in 12 different cancers, including breast, colon, prostate, lung and pancreas. The compounds of lemon are said to be better than the product Adriamycin, (a chemotherapy drug) slowing the growth of cancer cells. In addition, this type of lemon extract therapy only destroys malignant cancer cells while allowing healthy cells to remain unaffected.

Preliminary studies in humans are also showing promising benefits in breast cancer patients. During a study conducted at the University of Arizona Cancer Center, 43 women diagnosed with breast cancer, were given 2 grams of limonene daily for two to six weeks. Blood and breast tissue were collected during the elective mastectomy, to measure the level of d-limonene as well as note any changes in systemic and tissue biomarkers of breast cancer. Results showed that d-limonene was found in the breast tissue, reaching high tissue concentration (average = 41.3 μg/g tissue).

Research by Texas Agriculture Experiment Station scientists has shown that citrus compounds called limonoids targeted and stopped neuroblastoma cells in the lab.

Neuroblastomas are responsible for about 10 percent of all cancer in children, Harris said, and is usually a solid tumor in the neck, chest, spinal cord or adrenal gland. Dr. Ed Harris, Experiment Station biochemist collaborated on a study with Dr. Bhimu Patil, a plant physiologist at the Texas A&M University-Kingsville Citrus Center in Weslaco. “Limonoids are naturally occurring compounds, ” Harris said. “Unlike other anti-cancer drugs that are toxic, limonoids apparently do not hurt a person. That’s the beautiful potential.”

Here’s how:

As the nutrients are present in the peel, it is important to wash them properly in running water. Next, disinfect them with apple cider vinegar. Again wash them under running water and place in the freezer overnight.

Once frozen, grate them in a glass jar and put the jar back in the freezer and use as and when required. Some people keep frozen in an ice cube tray for future use. Store for up to four months.

It is advised to use the grated peel as toppings for salads, soups, juice and even in homemade sauces. Take a spoonful daily in smoothies, a pinch in your favorite juice and teas or a generous amount in baked goods. If battling cancer expect to do this for atleast 4 to 6 months.

Citrus Peel Flavonoids as Potential Cancer Prevention Agents
Source (read full PDF in cancer section): https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7199889/

Abstract

Citrus fruit and in particular flavonoid compounds from citrus peel have been identified as agents with utility in the treatment of cancer. This review provides a background and overview regarding the compounds found within citrus peel with putative anti-cancer potential as well as the associated in vitro and in vivo studies. Historical studies have identified a number of cellular processes that can be modulated by citrus peel flavonoids including cell proliferation, cell cycle regulation, apoptosis, metastasis, and angiogenesis. More recently, molecular studies have started to elucidate the underlying cell signaling pathways that are responsible for the flavonoids’ mechanism of action. These growing data support further research into the chemopreventative potential of citrus peel extracts, and purified flavonoids in particular. This critical review highlights new research in the field and synthesizes the pathways modulated by flavonoids and other polyphenolic compounds into a generalized schema.