Introduction

The respiratory system is important for every human being. Understanding the functions and the diseases associated with the respiratory system is essential for a healthy life and disease prevention. The respiratory system consists of pharynx, larynx, trachea, lungs, bronchioles and alveoli. We have two lungs and it is responsible for gaseous exchange. Meanwhile, the lungs bring oxygen from the environment and deliver it to the cells, which take carbon dioxide from the cells and deliver it to the environment.¹ The function of the respiratory system can be suppressed if any diseases such as asthma, chest infection, pneumonia, bronchitis and tuberculosis are developed. Some fruits can prevent and cure the respiratory system and one of them is lemon. 

Understanding respiratory health

Respiratory health is important to consider because it is an essential organ. The function of the respiratory system is to bring oxygen into the body to deliver it to the cells and take out carbon dioxide from the body and into the atmosphere. To function properly and deliver this whole process, and in other words gaseous exchange, we need organs. There are numerous organs present in the respiratory system, which include the mouth, pharynx, larynx, trachea, lungs, bronchioles and alveoli. The air from the environment enters the mouth, which travels through the throat to the trachea (windpipe) and the lungs. In the lungs, the air would first go through the trachea. The trachea has two types of bronchial tubes to ensure the air travels to the bronchioles and thereafter to the alveoli. The gaseous exchange would take place in the alveoli.² 

Common respiratory issues

When the respiratory system functions properly it would be fine, but there might be some development of respiratory issues. Some infections that can be developed as a result of this include:³

• Sinusitis
• Pneumonia 
• Tonsilitis
• Asthma
• Bronchitis 

Benefits of lemons for respiratory health

One superficial fruit is lemon, which is a type of citrus fruit. Lemon has antioxidants and vitamin C, which play an important role in curing diseases. In this scenario, it will help with preventing and curing respiratory-associated diseases. Vitamin C is a type of antioxidant, which helps fight against any free radicals that enter the body. Vitamin C's role in the body is to fight against exogenous and endogenous oxidative stress. Vitamin C also enhances the immunity function in patients suffering from respiratory disease. Furthermore, it has antibacterial and antiviral properties, which allow any infections to be cured.⁴ 

Ways to incorporate lemons for respiratory health

The methods of using lemon are:

• Lemon water
• Lemon tea
• Lemon inhalation techniques

Precautions and considerations

Potential allergic reactions

Lemon is a superficial fruit that will act against and fight disease, but it can also cause allergic reactions. Lemons contain limonene, which can cause a skin reaction when it is irritating.⁵ 

Moderation in consumption

The most important matter to consider is the amount of lemon consumption of lemon. Due to its high content of vitamin C.

Summary

Lemon is a key food to include in the diet to prevent any respiratory infections because a healthy respiratory system is crucial for breathy and gaseous exchange. Lemon has a high content of antioxidants, which can help to enhance the immune system. Anyone who is allergic to limonene should consider including lemon in the diet. Moreover, lemon is a nice citrus fruit, which can be included in water, tea, salad and even cakes. More research might be needed to learn more about lemon and its function in the respiratory system. 

FAQs

How does vitamin C help the respiratory system?

Vitamin C protects respiratory functions, as it is a powerful antioxidant, which helps boost the immune system of a person, making it effective in fighting diseases and infections.

Can symptoms of asthma be relieved by lemon juice?

Lemon juice has anti-inflammatory properties and high vitamin C content. When included in the diet, it can help reduce the frequency of the attack. However, it is not a cure on its own.

How can I add lemons to my diet?

You can make lemon tea, add lemons to salads, drink lemon water or use it in cooking. Lemon oil can also aid in respiratory health.

What are the precautions needed while consuming lemons?

Lemons can cause allergic reactions in some individuals because of the presence of limonene. Consuming too many lemons can cause enamel erosion of the tooth or stomach discomfort due to its acidic properties.