Some Scientific Stuff & Where Limes Come From
The lime is a hybrid citrus fruit and botanically classified as citrus aurantifolia. Cultivated species of lime are hybrids produced from the citron (Citrus medica), the mandarin orange (Citrus reticulata) and the pomelo (Citrus grandis). Like oranges, they are a member of the Rutaceae family. Wild limes are believed to have first grown in Indonesia or southeast Asia. As a result of more open trade routes, limes transplanted to the Mediterranean and northern Africa region in around 1000 CE. There are several species of citrus trees with fruit called limes, including the popular Key lime (Citrus aurantifolia), Persian lime (the most commonly used in the U.S.), kaffir lime, and desert lime.Properties of Limes
According to the US Department of Agriculture National Nutrient Database, the juice of one lime (approximately 44 grams) contains 11 calories, 4 grams of carbohydrate (including 1 gram of sugar and 0 grams of fiber) and 0 grams of protein Limes are a rich source of Vitamin C. One lime can provide 22% of the daily recommended amount of Vitamin C. Limes are also rich in dietary fiber and minerals such as calcium, potassium, copper, magnesium, and phosphorous. Limes have antiseptic, antimicrobial, and mucus-resolving properties. Limes are also well-regarded for their antibiotic properties.Medicinal/Homeopathic Benefits of Limes
Some medicinal lime essential oil benefits include: Limes are well-known for their antibiotic properties. Limes have an array of health benefits. A few of the specific conditions for which limes have proven beneficial properties include:- Cardiovascular health: Studies have shown that lime decreases fatty streaks found in coronary arteries, which are indicators of plaque build-up and, often, heart disease.
- Strokes: Women in particular should benefit especially from the benefit of consuming more limes in order to reduce the risk of stroke.
- Fresh breath: Limes destroy putrefactive bacteria in both the intestines and the mouth. As such, they are useful in purifying the mouth for a fresher breath.
- Colds: Limes are useful for colds and flus due to their antiseptic, antimicrobial, and mucus-resolving actions.
- Anemia: This condition usually occurs due to low levels of iron. Limes, rich in Vitamin C, allow for the better absorption of iron in the body.
- Digestion: The acidity in lime breaks down the macro molecules of the food, whilst its flavonoids stimulate the digestive system and increase the secretion of digestive juices, bile, and acids.
Some Quirky Facts about Limes
- Captain Cook famously introduced the use of limes in the British Navy to prevent scurvy—hence the slang nickname “limey” to describe an Englishman. Less known is that the British tried to keep it a secret as it gave them a military edge over other navies.
- Even today, workers in polluted environments like furnaces, painting shops, heat treatments, cement factories, and mines are given limes in order to protect them from scurvy – yes, scurvy!
- In 1767 Dr Macbride suggested mixing lime juice and bicarbonate of soda – it would be the world’s first fizzy drink!
- The lime is the most susceptible to frost of all citrus fruits, making them best grown in tropical or temperate regions of the world.
- Limes are rated as the #1 most universally enjoyed scent.
Cosmetic/Skincare Benefits of Lime Essential Oil
- Some people use lime juice as a topical application. It can protect the skin from infections since it has antibacterial properties.
- Lime also helps reduce body odor due to the presence of high amount of vitamin C and flavonoids in it.
- Both lime juice and lime essential oils are high in antioxidants and have antibiotic and disinfectant properties. Thus, when applied externally on the skin, its acids scrub out dead cells. This can help cure dandruff, rashes, and bruises.
- Lime is especially rejuvenating for the skin. For example, its juice or essential oil can also be used to create an invigorating bath or foot bath.
- The antioxidant compounds in limes slow the breakdown of cells and therefore minimize the appearance of age marks, scars, and pimples on the skin.
- A lime tip for you: Rub the rind of a lime on your dry skin and your skin will become softer and more moisturised.
Why We Love Lime in Our Products
As a recap of its many benefits, here are some of the reasons why we at Solpri use lime essential oils in our products:- It is especially refreshing
- It has a distinct and fresh smell
- It is rejuvenating for the skin
- It can be an antioxidant for the skin
- It has antibacterial and antiseptic properties
- It also disinfects the skin
“Limes have stimulative, carminative, antiseptic, antiviral, aperitif and haemostatic properties…Moreover, the fruit reduces inflammation associated with diseases like arthritis and osteoporosis” – Speedy Remedies