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Lime (Citrus aurantifolia) is a small, round, green-color hybrid citrus fruit. Due to its acidic sour juice and unique aroma, the lime fruit is widely used in various cuisines to accent flavor. It is a common ingredient in Mexican, Vietnamese, and Thai cuisine. There are several species of citrus fruits referred to as limes that include key lime, kaffir lime, wild lime, desert lime, and Persian lime.
This zesty, tropical fruit is well-known for its medicinal properties for ages. Lime finds its application in cosmetic and health products, too. Extracted from the lime’s peel or skin, the lime essential oil is extensively used in aromatherapy and perfumes.
Lime Nutrition
Predominantly known for its ascorbic acid reserves, lime may provide 32 percent of the daily recommended intake of vitamin C. It has high water content and important vitamins and minerals like magnesium and potassium, as well as vitamins like folate, vitamin A, vitamin E, and vitamin K.
The best thing about limes is that they are low in calories, carbohydrates, and fats. According to the USDA National Nutrient Database , a single serving (67 g) of lime may provide 20 kcal of energy. Moreover, lime peel and pulp may be rich in dietary fiber, antioxidants, flavonol glycosides like kaempferol, as well as diverse phytochemicals like polyphenols, limonene, and terpenes.
Health Benefits of Lime
Let’s take a look at some of the health benefits in detail:
May Help In Skin Care
Lime juice may contain healthy acids and help remove dead cells when applied to the skin. It might help build collagen, rejuvenate the skin, and improve overall texture.
Vitamin C protects the skin from infections as well as cures rashes, acne, pimples, bruises, and blemishes. As per a study in the journal Nutrition, flavonoids contained in limes may also inhibit microbial growth, which might help prevent gum bleeding.
It may also help fight skin damage caused due to sun, dust, and pollution. Its antioxidant and astringent properties can be helpful in reducing wrinkles, diminish dark spots, skin tan, and open pores. You can create a refreshing bathing experience by just adding this juice to your bath. Moreover, it may also help reduce body odor.
For ages, the use of lime has been a well-known cure for scurvy, a disease caused by vitamin C deficiency. It is characterized by frequent infections that show normal cold symptoms, cracked lips, and lip corners.
May Aid in Digestion
Limes have an irresistible aroma that may aid primary digestion (the digestive saliva floods your mouth even before you taste it). While they break down the macromolecules of the food, the flavonoids stimulate the digestive system and increase the secretion of digestive juices, bile, and acids. This might also stimulate peristaltic motion which moves the food throughout the intestine.
The amount of acid present in lime may help clear the excretory system. The roughage in lime may aid in providing relief from constipation. An overdose of its juice with salt may also act as an excellent purgative without any side effects, thereby relieving constipation.
Note: This is the reason behind lemon pickle being consumed along with lunch and dinner in India, and various neighboring countries. Also, drinking a glass of warm lime water about 30 minutes before meals can help prevent heartburn or acid reflux symptoms.
May Fight Infections
Consuming lime may protect the body against various microbes, viruses, and bacteria including Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) and Salmonella bacteria infections.
May Aid In Weight Loss
A 2010 animal study showed that lime essential oils may help prevent weight gain and excess food consumption. Moreover, the citric acid present in lime might also be an excellent fat burner. A glass of lukewarm water with lime can be effective as an excellent weight reducer.
How to use: Consume two glasses of warm water with lime juice a day to reap benefits in a few days.
May Manage Blood Sugar
The high levels of soluble fiber found in lime may make it effective and regulate the body’s absorption of sugar into the bloodstream. This may help reduce the risk of blood sugar spikes that are a serious risk to people with diabetes.
Also, limes and other citrus fruits have a low glycemic index, which may imply zero significant or unexpected spikes in glucose levels. This is why the American Diabetes Association considers citrus fruits such as limes a superfood for diabetes.
May Help Prevent Heart Diseases
A study led by Dr. Frank Hu, professor of medicine at the Harvard Medical School, suggests that foods rich in vitamin C might have a protective effect against coronary heart disease. Additionally, soluble fiber and limonin found in limes may help lower blood pressure. This might help reduce the inflammation of the blood vessels and further aid in reducing the risk of heart diseases. Also, potassium and magnesium in limes may help improve blood circulation and boost heart health.
Vitamin C in lime juice and lime peels may help lower ischemic stroke risks, according to an animal study published in the journal ARYA Atherosclerosis. It might also help slow down the progression of coronary heart diseases like atherosclerosis by decreasing fatty streaks in arteries.
Hesperidin, a flavonoid present in lime, help lower LDL (bad) cholesterol and triglyceride levels in the body which is another heart-healthy benefit.
May Relieve Inflammation
Citrus fruits may have anti-inflammatory properties and can be used for several inflammatory issues.
One of the many causes of arthritis is an excess build-up of uric acid in the body. The citric acid found in limes is a solvent in which uric acid can dissolve. Increasing citric acid in the body may help eliminate excess uric acid from the urine.
May Prevent Kidney Stone
According to a 2014 study in the Korean Journal of Urology, the citric acid in fresh or concentrated lime juice may help remove and prevent kidney stones by increasing urinary citrate and urine volume.
Another study showed that consuming lemonade for nearly four years may have helped decrease kidney stone formation from an average of one stone per year down to just 0.13 per year.
May Boost Immunity
Lime may strengthen the body’s line of defense and help ward off infections and diseases like malaria, diarrhea, and pneumonia. Also, vitamin C in the citrus fruit might help battle coughs and colds and boost the body’s overall immunity. This is confirmed by a series of studies including a 2017 research in the journal Nutrients.
May Increase Iron Absorption
Vitamin C in lime when paired with foods rich in iron, may help maximize the body’s ability to absorb iron. Additionally, those suffering from iron-deficiency anemia symptoms like – dizziness, brittle nails, hair loss, and fatigue may consider adding lime to their diet.
May Heal Peptic Ulcer
In addition to vitamin C, lime may contain special compounds called flavonoids (limonoids such as limonin glucoside), which have antioxidant, anti-carcinogenic, antibiotic, and detoxifying properties. The acids in lime react with the gastric juices of the stomach resulting in alkaline reactions. The flavonoids and the alkaline reaction collectively may stimulate the healing process of peptic and oral ulcers.
May Provide Relief from Respiratory Disorders
The flavonoid-rich oil that is extracted from limes may be extensively used in anti-congestive medicines such as balms, vaporizers, and inhalers due to the presence of kaempferol. Just scratching the peel of a lime and inhaling it might give immediate relief from nasal congestion and nausea.
Other benefits
Other benefits include:
- May Alleviate Fever: Citrus fruits, in general, have fever-reducing qualities because of vitamin C found in high concentrations, which may naturally lower the temperature of the body.
- May Provide relief from Gout: There are two main causes of gout. The first source is the accumulation of free radicals and the second is the accumulation of toxins in the body, primarily uric acid. Limes may help prevent both of the causes, due to the presence of abundant antioxidants, vitamin C, and flavonoids.
- May Help Relieve Piles: Since lime may help heal ulcers and wounds in the digestive and excretory system (while providing relief from constipation) it might also remove some of the root causes of piles. Piles are a different term for hemorrhoids, an uncomfortable condition that occurs in the anal region, and can result in bleeding and discomfort during excretion. It may help prevent their formation or recurrence.
- May Defend Against Cholera: The flavonol glycosides in lime may have antibiotic properties that can help protect the body against various bacteria and microbes including Vibrio cholera, according to a study conducted in West Africa. Also, regular intake of lime juice by patients exposed to cholera-infected water may reduce the symptoms of this fatal disease.
- May Help with Urinary Disorders: The high potassium content in limes is may be very effective in the removal of toxic substances and the precipitates deposited in the kidneys and the urinary bladder. The disinfectant properties of lime might also help cure infections in the urinary system. Furthermore, it may stop prostrate growth (very common in males above 40) and clear blockage of urine caused due to the buildup of calcium in the urinary tract.
- May Help In Hair Care: Applying lime juice to the scalp may have tremendous benefits like shiny, healthy, and dandruff-free hair and scalp. Apply lime juice to your hair and expose it to sunlight for an hour. Then, rinse it. This will make your hair 2-3 shades lighter in color.
- May Boost Women’s Health: Calcium and folate present in it are two important nutrients for women in menopausal and child-bearing age.
What is Lime Used For?
Limes may have many surprising medicinal, culinary, and cosmetic uses. Some are as follows:
- Culinary Uses: Lime juice adds a tart flavor to soups, salads, vegetables, and baked foods. Squeezing some lime juice onto roasted chicken or pan-fried white fish can add a tangy taste to it. It is also widely used in the preparation of desserts, pickles, jams, jellies, snacks, and candies.
- Cleansing Agent: It can easily increase the cleansing properties of any facial cleanser or shampoo by merely adding 2-3 drops.
- Aromatherapy & Perfumes: Lime essential oil is used in aromatherapy and perfumes for its fragrance and its stimulating effect on the body and mind.
- Beverages: It is a favorite ingredient when it comes to cocktails, sorbets, and fresh beverages.
- Cosmetic Products: It is used in cosmetic products like body oil, hair oil, toothpaste, beauty soap, disinfectant, mouthwash, and deodorant.
- Medicinal Uses: Because of their antibacterial, antiseptic, and disinfectant properties, the peel, oil, and juice of the fruit may have medicinal uses. It may also be used in making anti-congestion medicines and to treat severe diarrhea.
How Much Juice is in a Lime?
One pound consists of 5 limes. On average, one lime contains 2 tablespoons of lime juice present in it. One whole lime also has 2 teaspoons of lime zest in it. So, if a recipe asks for the juice of 1 lime, you can substitute it with 2 tablespoons of bottled lime juice.
Side Effects
Although limes do not have major side effects, excessive intake may cause some issues like:
- Skin allergy: Itchiness, redness, and swelling.
- Citrus fruit allergy: Nausea, abdominal pain, wheezing, repeated vomiting.
- Eroded enamel: Over-consumption may erode the tooth enamel and increase its sensitivity due to the high amount of citric acid.
- Phytophotodermatitis: In some cases, applying the lime juice to the skin directly may increase skin sensitivity to UV rays, resulting in phytophotodermatitis.
Note: It is important to wash the outer peel of limes even if you do not plan to use it as the peel usually has bacterial deposits. These may get transferred inside the fruit if kept unwashed.
Other than that add this zesty fruit to your diet and enjoy all its nutrition!
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Kaffir Lime
Kaffir lime is the common name of Citrus hystrix, a tropical fruit that is native to various parts of Asia, including Indonesia, Thailand, and the Philippines. Aside from its culinary uses, due to its uniquely tart and pleasant flavor, kaffir lime is also highly respected in herbal medicine, due to its possibility of high content of beneficial organic compounds that might positively affect the body’s systems. The oil, leaves, fruit, and rind of kaffir limes are all utilized for different purposes. You’ll often find kaffir limes being used in soups and sauces, such as Tom Yum soup, particularly the leaves, which are frequently utilized in Thai cooking. The leaves and rind are so powerful, however, that they can often overwhelm the flavor of the dish.
This strong flavor might be due to the high concentration of alkaloids, citronellol, limonene, nerol, and other organic compounds in kaffir limes. Not only do these provide a unique aroma and flavor, but also a wide range of health benefits. Oil extracted from the leaves, as well as the leaves themselves, are can be used for medicinal purposes. The oil is often mixed with shampoos, soaps, salves, fragrances, and other cosmetic products, while the leaves are usually applied topically or orally to induce a specific healthy result.
Health Benefits of Kaffir Lime
Let’s take a slightly closer look at the many health benefits of kaffir lime.
Might Improve Oral Health
The most widespread use of kaffir lime is in the protection of oral health. However, it is not the fruit itself that should be eaten for this, but rather the rind and the leaves. The leaves can be directly rubbed onto the gums to promote good oral health and eliminate harmful bacteria that can build up in the mouth. The oil extracted from kaffir limes can also be mixed in with organic toothpaste and mouthwashes to promote more potent oral and gum care.
May Detoxifies the Blood
The oil of kaffir limes can be mixed in various decoctions for those suffering from blood-borne illnesses or chronic blood-related diseases. The unique mix of volatile compounds might eliminate those pathogens or foreign agents in the blood, along with the possibility of helping the liver and lymphatic system strain out dangerous substances and improve your overall health.
May Maintain the Digestive System
There are a number of components found in kaffir limes that are also found in lemongrass and related herbs. These organic constituents might be anti-inflammatory in nature and they may also stimulate the digestive system. If you are suffering from constipation or indigestion, some kaffir lime decoction may clear your symptoms up and might get your bowels back on a regular track. This might help in preventing more serious gastrointestinal issues in the future, such as colorectal cancer, hemorrhoids, or gastric ulcers however, more research in this is still needed.
Might be an Insect Repellant
In the countries where kaffir lime was traditionally grown, insect-borne diseases may kill thousands of people each year. For that reason, kaffir limes are often used for their insect repellant properties. The citronellol and limonene found in kaffir limes may be very unappealing to most insects, and when you put a lotion or a salve containing kaffir lime juice/oil on your skin, you can significantly decrease your chances of being bitten by bugs, whether they may infect you or not.
Skin Care
Kaffir lime juice and extracts can be mixed into many cosmetic and bath products for their wonderful smell, as well as their possible antioxidant properties. Some of the acids found in kaffir limes might help to neutralize free radicals, the dangerous byproducts of cellular respiration that may cause cell mutation or apoptosis, as well as cancer. Antioxidant compounds also slow the breakdown of cells and minimize the appearance of age marks, scars, and pimples. If you want your skin looking healthy and fresh well into your old age, then perhaps some kaffir lime juice is precisely what you need!
Might Lower Inflammation
For those suffering from rheumatism, arthritis, edema, gout, or some other inflammatory condition, kaffir limes might be a very effective remedy. You can use the juice, leaves, or oil extracts topically on the area where you are experiencing discomfort or pain, and you can also consume the fruit and the juices to enjoy a similar effect. This possible anti-inflammatory effect might make kaffir lime juice beneficial for headaches and migraines.
May Reduces Stress
Although most people don’t think of kaffir limes as being particularly useful in aromatherapy, the oil extracted from these powerful fruits might be used aromatically with great effect. If you suffer from anxiety or various nervous disorders, spending some time inhaling these soothing vapors may calm the body and mind.
May Boost Immunity
The possible antibacterial and antioxidant qualities of kaffir limes can make them powerful tools to boost the immune system. Not only does the topical application may prevent infections and bacteria from accumulating on the skin, but when consumed, kaffir limes might help to prevent a wide variety of gastrointestinal illnesses and may stimulate the immune system via antioxidant effects.
Hair Care
One of the less well-known applications of kaffir lime juice and leaves is in the hair. You can apply decoctions and mixtures to the scalp and hair to possibly slow the onset of male pattern baldness and strengthen the follicles of the hair. This can also moisturize the skin to prevent dandruff and might improve the appearance and shine.
Word of Caution: Due to the potency of the extracted oil of kaffir limes, it is not recommended for direct consumption, as it can result in nausea, vomiting, dizziness, lightheadedness, and other unpleasant side effects. Always mix the essential oil with water or another diluting agent. Other than that, there are no reported side effects of kaffir lime use. As with any herbal remedy, always consult a medical professional before making a major change in your supplement schedule.
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