The Sorrento lemon, known for its irresistible scent, is one of the treasures of Italy's Mediterranean coast. This citrus fruit is more than just a culinary ingredient: it is a symbol of tradition, culture and beauty. In this article you can discover its origins, the characteristics that make it special, and why it is a valuable ingredient for Cosmetics and its action Neurocosmetics.
Origins of the Sorrento Lemon
The lemon is a true symbol of the Mediterranean areas of Italy, but to go and find its origins we have to go to the Far East.
In fact, in China, India, and Mesopotamian civilizations it was known for its antiseptic, antirheumatic, and tonic properties. It was introduced to the Mediterranean basin by the Greeks, who called it the "apple of Media" because it came from Media, a country near Persia. According to Theophrastus, Aristotle's student, the Greeks used to grow lemon plants near olive trees to protect them from pests.
For very many years it was thought that the Romans knew neither the plant nor the fruit but in 1952, during excavations, "the House of the Orchard" was unearthed in Pompeii, the walls of which are entirely painted with fruit plants including two lemon trees laden with fruit.
From this finding and historical documents, it can be assumed that the lemon tree was transplanted and acclimatized in Campania as early as the first century AD, more specifically, in the Sorrento area by 1500 AD.
In 2000, Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) recognition was obtained to protect the unique natural heritage of the Sorrento Lemon.
What are the characteristics of Sorrento lemons?
The Sorrento L emon is known for its unique characteristics that distinguish it from all other lemons. Here are some of the main ones:
▪️ Shape and Appearance: The Sorrento lemon has an oval shape with a thick, wrinkled peel. The peel has a bright yellow color and can vary from light yellow to deep yellow. From this it is possible to extract thelemon essential oil rich in properties.
▪️ Intense Aroma: One of the hallmarks of the Sorrento Lemon is its intensely aromatic scent. When the peel is broken, it releases a fresh, lively aroma that is a mix of citrusy freshness and slightly sweet notes.
▪️ Balanced Flavor: The pulp has a balanced flavor that makes it recognizable and different from any lemon.
▪️ High Juice Content: The Sorrento Lemon contains a high amount of juice, making it ideal for making juices, desserts and drinks such as the famous limoncello.
▪️ Rich in Vitamin C: Like all lemons, Sorrento lemons are an excellent source of vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that supports the immune system and promotes healthy skin.
▪️ The essential oil that is extracted from this lemon is NOT photosensitive and is naturally free of furocoumarins.
In what places can it be grown?
The PGI certification makes the Sorrento Lemon cultivable only in the municipalities of the Sorrento Peninsula: Massa Lubrense, Meta, Piano di Sorrento, Sant'Agnello, Sorrento, and Vico Equense, as well as on the island of Capri, with the two municipalities Capri and Anacapri.
In the 4th century A.D., according to the records of the Salerno Medical School, the lemon was widely used for therapeutic use because of its countless virtues; in fact, until the 1500s, the use of lemon was intended only for the medical field.
Luce di Sorrento was born in the Sorrento Peninsula from the history of our family, which has been passionately dedicated to the cultivation of this magnificent fruit since 1923, protecting biodiversity and promoting the cultivation of Sorrento lemons as a natural and unique heritage.
The lemon represents and enlivens this territory: its color recalls the brightness of the sun that kisses this land, its therapeutic qualities constitute a viaticum for body and spirit, and its sweet and intense flavor awakens the senses.
Why Sorrento lemon is exceptional in cosmetics
The Sorrento Lemon is rich in vitamin C and minerals, and the peel is very fragrant due to the high concentration of essential oils. Here are some of the reasons why Sorrento Lemon essential oil is present in all our products:
▪️ Antibacterial, healing and natural purifying: makes cosmetics perfect even for the oily skin and with acne.
▪️ Illuminating: the innovative complex LemonLux® a precious elixir made from Sorrento Lemon Essential Oil and Extra Virgin Olive Oil from the Sorrento Peninsula makes the complexion brighter and more beautiful.
▪️ Natural exfoliant: the innovative active ingredient LemonLight® extracted from Sorrento lemon peels through an enzymatic process has distinct moisturizing properties. It also provides gentle exfoliation; therefore, ideal even for sensitive skin with dermatitis.
▪️ Antioxidant: high concentration of Vitamin C and thanks to our active Light-C® Liposomes provides intense action in fighting skin aging.
▪️ Aromatherapy: Lemon essential oil provides calm and reduces stress and anxiety.
▪️ Antiaging: it is a powerful natural antioxidant so it is also ideal for the menopausal skin.
▪️ Schiarente: per contrastare anche le macchie della pelle.
▪️ The essential oil that is obtained from the Sorrento Lemon through a slow steam extraction process is NOT photosensitive because it is naturally free of furocoumarins.
All of our Luce di Sorrento cosmetics contain Sorrento lemon essential oil extracted by steam distillation for more than 6 hours in order to extract the purest molecules with a dual action: radiance on the skin and a relaxing effect on the mind.
We are waiting for you in our e-commerce to discover all our products and be able to start your own sensory skincare!
