Are Lemons Fruit or Vegetable?
Most people recognize that lemons are a type of fruit. But, are lemons fruit or vegetable? It turns out, there is an ongoing debate as to what category lemons really belong to.
Botanical Definition:
The simplest explanation is to look at the definition of fruit and vegetables. Botanically speaking, a fruit is the ripened ovary, or the seed-bearing structure in flowering plants. This includes, among other things, apples, oranges, bananas, and grapes, as these are all derived from the ovary in the plant’s flower. A vegetable, in contrast, is any edible part of a plant that is not a fruit.
Are Lemons Fruit?
Given this definition, it is understandable how people may be confused if lemons are considered to be a fruit or a vegetable. Lemons are, in fact, fruits and are generally associated with the fact that they are part of the citrus family.
Benefits of Eating Lemons
Lemons are a powerhouse of nutrients and vitamins, making them a potent and beneficial addition to any diet. Some of the benefits include:
- Good for digestion: Lemons contain citric acid, which is a natural digestive aid, and can help to stimulate the production of gastric acid, which is essential for digestion.
- Good for your skin: The antioxidants in lemons can help to restore your skin and keep it looking young and fresh.
- Boosts your immune system: Lemons are rich in Vitamin C, which can help to boost your immune system and protect your body from infections and illnesses.
- Reduces bad breath: The antibacterial properties of lemons can help to reduce bad breath. All you need to do is add a few drops of lemon juice to a glass of water and drink it.
Conclusion
So, to answer the question: are lemons fruit or vegetables? The answer is that lemons are, indeed, fruit. They may look like a vegetable, but they are actually classified as a fruit due to their botanical origin. Lemons are a great addition to your diet due to the many health benefits they offer.
