Lemons: Delicious and healthy!

The lemon, botanically known as *Citrus limon*, originates from northern India, parts of China and Myanmar. The fruit was cultivated there as long as 2,000 years ago. It first reached the Middle East via trade routes such as the famous Silk Road. From there, the lemon’s journey continued into the Mediterranean region, carried in the baggage of Persian traders and Arab conquerors. It is believed that it arrived in Europe in the 11th century during the Arab expansion into what is now Spain. Over the centuries, the lemon became an integral part of Mediterranean cuisine, agriculture and way of life.

The Dalmatian coast offers the perfect conditions for this plant to thrive. Lemon trees are true sun-worshippers. They need at least six hours of direct sunlight a day. Ideally, they should be placed in a bright, sheltered spot. They cannot tolerate frost at all; they love water but hate having ‘wet feet’. Consistently moist but without waterlogging, in loose, well-drained soil and supplied with plenty of nutrients – that’s just how the little trees like it! Naturally, here at the Lemongarden Hotel we do everything we can to ensure our namesakes feel right at home!

Lemons are quite prolific bloomers. In Croatia, the first buds begin to sprout in April, depending on the weather. The first lemon blossom always takes place in spring; the exact time depends on the climate. If they grow in warm regions, lemons can even flower several times a year. This creates a special sight: sometimes, the yellow fruits hang from a small tree beneath the white blossoms.

The main harvest season in Croatia is between November and March. Croatian dishes featuring lemons, such as freshly grilled fish (Riba na žaru) with lemon juice, squid salad (Salata od hobotnice), and the traditional braised beef (Pašticada), are given a distinctive flavour by the fresh fruit. Jams and fresh lemon juice can also be made from these aromatic fruits.

Lemons from Croatia aren’t just versatile in the kitchen. They’re also great for our health! They’re packed with vitamin C, which is known to give our immune system a real boost. Cell-protecting antioxidants and anti-inflammatory flavonoids round out the health benefits of lemons. What’s more, these yellow fruits are rich in potassium and magnesium. Both are particularly important for the heart and muscles. No wonder, then, that they have been a staple of the medicine cabinet for centuries.

A glass of lukewarm water with lemon in the morning is said to boost the metabolism, aid digestion and improve the complexion. Lemon juice helps prevent colds. If the first symptoms appear, lukewarm water with honey and a little lemon can help. Externally, sliced lemon is used for insect bites and, in the form of lemon essential oil, to combat tiredness.

Our guests often tell us how quickly they get into the holiday spirit here. There are, of course, many reasons for this – our beautiful rooms and suites, our location right by Sutivan harbour, our friendly staff… The beach and the lush garden with its wonderful pool also play their part. But we also believe a little in the power of lemons. Because the scent of lemon can lift your spirits and give you a boost. It stimulates the production of the ‘happiness hormone’ serotonin, alleviates listlessness, invigorates and refreshes. The scent of lemon reduces stress and lowers the heart rate. A true all-rounder, growing right here in our gardens!