Lime (from Arabic and French lim) is a term referring to a citrus fruit which is typically round, green in color, 3–6 cm in diameter and containing sour and acidic pulp. There are several species of citrus trees whose fruits are called limes, including the Key lime, Persian lime, Kaffir lime and desert lime. Limes are a good source of vitamin C and are often used to accent the flavors of foods and beverages. They are grown year-round and are usually smaller and less sour than lemons.

Limes were first grown on a large scale in southern Iraq and Persia and the fruit was first grown commercially in what is today southern Iraq (Babylonia).

Lime oil is extracted from Citrus aurantifolia of the Rutaceae family and is also known as Mexican and West Indian lime, as well as sour lime. This clear smelling citrus oil can help lift depression and lighten your mood when feeling blue. It is used to fight cellulite and to tone the skin in general.

Benefit & Uses: To prevent scurvy during the 19th century, British sailors were issued a daily allowance of citrus, such as lemon and later switched to lime, which was not as effective at preventing scurvy but was easier to obtain on Britain's Caribbean colonies. It was later discovered that the greater effectiveness of lemons derived from the four-fold higher quantities of vitamin C contained in lemon juice compared to the West Indian limes used by the British. This was initially a closely guarded military secret, as scurvy was a common enemy of various nations' navies, and the ability to remain at sea for lengthy periods without contracting scurvy was a huge benefit for the military. The British sailor thus acquired the nickname of being a "Limey" because of their usage of limes.

Lime oil may help regulate blood pressure, especially due to stress. Consider adding it to shampoos, baths, lotion, or a drop in each glass of water.

Benefit from the uplifting and energizing qualities by adding a few drops into a salt or sugar scrub, making your own deodorant, dropping in your shampoo or adding to homemade soaps or in lotions.

Some have even reported a decrease in cellulite when adding this essential oil to their lotions or coconut oil and massaging into areas with cellulite.

Some have even reported a decrease in cellulite when adding this essential oil to their lotions or coconut oil and massaging into areas with cellulite. Use the oil in your natural household cleaners, including sprays, scrubs, and furniture polish.

Used in the same manner as lemon essential oil, lime's antiviral properties can help fight colds by diffusing, adding to your water or massaging into the body (especially the lymphatic system).

Support the emotional and spiritual aspects of a person by diffusing lime or using it topically or internally on a daily basis. One of the coolest aspects of lime is it de-gunking abilities. Add a drop to each glass of water throughout your day to increase energy levels and boost your mood.

Same as above, add a drop to your water, massage into the skin, or even diffuse into the air for uplifting benefits. It's antiviral and antibacterial properties will support the body in fighting infection. The refreshing qualities can also be used topically to cool the body.

All citrus oils are great for focus, mental clarity, uplifting energies, and so on. Inhale from the bottle for a quick pick-me-up, diffuse at work or while studying, and apply topically (diluted for sensitive skin). Its antiviral and antibacterial properties will help alleviate symptoms. I'd recommend added a drop or two to your increased water intake.

This oil is great for detoxifying the liver. Add to your water on a regular basis, or put in empty capsules to take internally for a detox regimen. Add a drop to your water, or diffuse the oil throughout the air as needed.

 

Lime essential oil makes a great addition to a beauty routine. Try mixing 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 drop of coconut oil, 1 drop of lime oil and just enough water to make a paste and use as a face scrub to revitalize the skin.