Put a Lemon with Salt in the Middle of Your Room

Many people believe that small rituals can influence the atmosphere of a home. One widely shared practice involves cutting a lemon into quarters, sprinkling it with salt, and placing it on a plate in the center of a room. It’s often promoted as a simple remedy for unpleasant odors, stress, lingering germs, or even “negative energy.”

What Supporters Believe

Fans of this ritual say the combination of lemon and salt can freshen the air, improve mood, deter insects, and spiritually cleanse a space. But how much of this holds up under closer examination? Let’s look at what’s real and what’s rooted in tradition.

What Science and Practical Experience Show

Scent and Odor Masking
The sense of freshness comes primarily from the lemon’s aroma. Lemon peels contain natural oils—especially d-limonene—that release a crisp, citrus scent. While the lemon doesn’t actually neutralize odors the way a purifier does, the fragrance can overpower unpleasant smells, making the room feel cleaner.

Cleaning and Germ Claims
Lemon juice does contain citric acid, which has mild antibacterial properties when used directly on surfaces. However, a cut lemon sitting on a plate won’t disinfect the air or sanitize furniture. There’s no scientific evidence showing that it kills germs throughout a room.

Air Purification Myths
Claims that lemons or salt absorb toxins, negative ions, or harmful energy aren’t supported by modern science. Similar ideas—such as those surrounding salt lamps—have been studied and found to have no measurable effect on air quality or pathogens. Effective air purification requires ventilation or a HEPA-grade air filter.

Insect Repellent Effects
Citrus oils like d-limonene can act as mild insect deterrents and are used in some natural pesticides. That said, lemons are among the least effective citrus options. A sliced lemon may discourage a few fruit flies, but it won’t function as dependable pest control.

Wellness and Psychological Benefits

Mood Enhancement
Citrus scents are known to promote relaxation and emotional uplift. Research from Japan found that inhaling yuzu—a citrus similar to lemon—for about 10 minutes reduced stress and depressive symptoms. While a fresh lemon isn’t as concentrated as essential oils, its gentle scent may still provide a subtle mood boost.

Mental Focus and Alertness
Some studies suggest that lemon fragrance can increase concentration. One well-known study from 2004 showed students performed better on tests in lemon-scented classrooms compared to unscented ones. Having a lemon nearby while working or studying could offer a mild cognitive lift.

Cultural and Spiritual Traditions

Lemons and salt have long histories in cultural and spiritual practices around the world.

• In Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cultures, lemons are symbols of protection and are sometimes placed near beds to guard against negative influences.
• Salt plays a role in spiritual cleansing rituals globally, from Japanese Shinto traditions to European folk customs.
• In Feng Shui, lemons are believed to attract positive energy, or “chi,” when positioned intentionally within the home.

While these beliefs aren’t scientifically verifiable, they hold emotional and cultural significance for many people.

The Takeaway

Using lemon and salt in your home is harmless, affordable, and can make a space smell pleasant. It won’t disinfect the air or replace proper cleaning or air filtration, but it may help you feel calmer and more comfortable. As experts often say about salt lamps, even without scientific backing, the sense of peace they bring can still matter. If placing a lemon in your room improves your mood or creates a feeling of calm, that benefit alone makes the ritual worthwhile.