Lemon Wedges

Lemons are native to tropical Asia, where cultivation dates back at least 2,500 years. In the twelfth century the Arabs brought lemons to Spain and Africa. It was Christopher Columbus who brought the seeds of lemons with him from the Canary Islands on his second voyage.

It's said that lemon juice is good for colds, flu, scarlet fever, and chest infections; it can act as a tonic for the liver and pancreas, improve the appetite and helps to ease stomach acidity, ulcers, arthritis, gout, and rheumatism; as a gargle, lemon juice relieves sore throats, gingivitis, and canker sores; externally it can be applied directly to acne, athlete's foot, chilblains, stings, ringworm, sunburn, and warts.

Despite all these positive aspects, I'm drinking my ice tea these days without a lemon wedge. Why? A recent study shows that lemon slices are loaded with bacteria, likely due to cross-contamination from improperly handled cutting boards, utensils, other foods or unwashed hands.

This week, a look at lemons that are, well, lemons.

TTFN, Fred.

Quote of the week: "Other people may be there to help us, teach us, guide us along our path. But the lesson to be learned is always ours." - Melody Beattie (American author and journalist)

(scroll over or click on iPaper below to have a drop-down menu that includes a print option)

Lemon Wedges