The Citrusy Wonders of Lime

The potential uses of lime goes far beyond than just its tangy, zesty flavour. As an excellent source of vitamin C, limes possess a powerful set of benefits that can improve your health and fight off disease.

There are several species of citrus trees which bear fruits that are called limes, including the Persian lime, Key lime, kaffir lime, and desert lime.

It is a fruit that cleans! Limes contain d-limonene, a natural solvent that cuts through grease and dirt.

Limes are 88% water, 10% carbohydrates and less than 1% of fat and protein.

Arabian traders introduced this citrus delight to India, the eastern Mediterranean, and Africa around 1000 C.E. and it then sailed to the west with Christopher Columbus.

Lime extracts and lime essential oils are frequently used in perfumes, cleaning products, and aromatherapy.

Both limes and lemons are from the same citrus fruit family, offering similar nutritional benefits, but here are the 3 main differences.

small and green

larger in size and
yellow

small and green

larger in size and
yellow

HELPS IN DIGESTION

Lime stimulates the digestive system due to the presence of flavonoids, a diverse group of phytonutrients (plant chemicals) found in almost all fruits and vegetables. These flavonoids increase the secretion of digestive juices. If you experience constipation, the acidity of limes can clear the excretory system and stimulate bowel activity. It is useful to prevent nausea and vomiting.

A LIME A DAY KEEPS THE FLU AWAY

Rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, limes can strengthen your immune system. Try sipping on some lime juice throughout the day to help your body fight off infections such as the cold and flu virus.

LOWERS CHOLESTEROL
FOR A HEALTHIER HEART

According to the University of Michigan Health System, a high intake of vitamin C may help prevent LDL aka bad cholesterol damage and cardiovascular disease. Another study, conducted on rabbits, has shown that lime peels and lime juice contain antioxidants that slow down the process of atherogenesis, the build-up of plaque on artery walls.

BREATHE BETTER WITH CITRUS

The flavonoid-rich oil that is extracted from limes is 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 can give immediate relief from congestion and nausea.

MAKES YOUR SKIN GLOW

Lime can work wonders for your skin! While its strong astringent and antibacterial properties can help treat acne, its acidity can lighten dark spots and its high content of vitamin C stimulates the production of collagen giving your skin a healthy and youthful glow. However, it is advised not to use lime directly on your skin but to first dilute its juice in warm water before applying.

As you hydrate yourself with lime water or squeeze it over fresh seafood, here are some other interesting ways to use this fruit!

FRESHEN YOUR HOME

Go chemical free with this easy, healthy and environment-friendly air freshener! Mix lime juice with water and baking soda and spray your rooms, cupboards, microwave and refrigerator to get rid of all odours. You can also add lime rinds or peels to potpourri; leaving your house smelling fresh and clean.

ANT REPELLENT

Citrus rind oils contain an extract (d-limonene) that is toxic to ants and even fire ants. You can use lime juice or lime oil as a natural insect repellent by spraying the juice or placing the peels around door frames and window sills to drive away those pesky ants from your home!

PICKLE IT!

Add a little tangy zest to your meals with your very own homemade lime pickle! A quick recipe would include drying lime wedges in salt for 2 to 3 days. Once that process is complete, in a saucepan stir mustard seeds, ginger, garlic, cumin, coriander and chilli powder until aromatic. Then add in the limes with water, sugar and vinegar and bring to a boil. Once the mixture is thick, set aside to cool before bottling it. Set aside for 1 week to develop the flavours.

Though generally considered safe for consumption, too much lime can have an adverse effect on your body.

Dental Erosion
Limes have high acid content and consuming too much of it, even when diluted in water, can damage the enamel or outer layer of your teeth.

Stomach Ulcers
The citric acid in limes when combined with stomach acids can agitate the stomach lining and worsen stomach ulcers.

Margarita Burn
Or phytophotodermatitis is a skin reaction that takes place when a chemical called furocoumarin found in limes reacts with sunlight, resulting in burning, redness, blisters and rashes.

From culinary to medicinal uses, aroma therapy, cosmetics and as a cleansing agent, limes are one of the most versatile fruits in the world. So, when life gives you limes, make sure to make the best use of it!

The above articles are intended for informational purposes only. AIA accepts no responsibility for loss, which may arise from reliance on information contained in the articles.

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The Citrusy Wonders Of Lime

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