Also known as the West Indian Lime and the Mexican Lime, Lime was brought to
the Americas from Asia by Portuguese and Spanish explorers in the early
sixteenth century. It grows well in all hot semitropical, subtropical and
tropical regions and flourishes in the Caribbean and Florida. It is round to
oval, very small, and harvested year-round. It was cultivated as early as
1889 in the Florida. It emits an extremely distinctive aroma from its thin
green rind and has a patently acid taste.
Lime essential oil has beneficial effects on various parts of the body.
Traditionally it is known to be an aid to the digestive system to treat
heartburn and indigestion. Lime is believed to have a healing effect on the
respiratory tract, in particular when used to treat coughs and chest
infections. Due to its uplifting properties, Lime essential oil is known to aid
treatment of depression and stress related conditions. It is also beneficial
in the treatment of seasonal ailments such as cold and flu.
Lime has a distinctly clean and powerful fragrance
which is fruity and sharp. Its fresh green top notes are twinned with
citrusy, slightly bitter undertones.
Lime essential oil is emotionally uplifting and refreshing. It helps
to relieve fatigue apathy and depression.
As with other citrus oils, Lime can cause phototoxic problems if the skin
where the oil has been applied comes into direct contact with sunlight. Both
expressed and distilled Lime essential oil can be a skin irritant therefore
must be used in low concentrations.
Do not take essential oils internally or use without the guidance of a
qualified practitioner. The information provided here is for general use
only and is not intended to replace medical diagnosis or treatment.
Pregnant women should always consult their physician prior to using.
