Lime Essential Oil

Latin name: Citrus Aurantifolia

Part of the plant used: fruit peel

Source: Mexico

Extraction method: cold pressing

Lime essential oil is obtained from Citrus aurantifolia, also known as the Mexican or West Indian lime, as well as the sour lime. The oil is extracted from the unripe peel by cold pressing, or from the peel and/or the whole ripe fruit by steam distillation. Lime oil has a strong citrus scent that immediately lifts the mood upon inhaling, and is pale yellow to light olive in color.

Lime oil , when used in an oil burner, stimulates a tired mind and helps relieve anxiety, apathy, and depression. It is helpful in reducing fevers associated with colds, sore throats, and the flu. It boosts immunity while relieving coughs, bronchitis, sinusitis, and asthma. It is said to be helpful for arthritis, rheumatism, and poor circulation, as well as obesity and cellulite. This oil is good for the skin; it reduces oil and acne, and helps with herpes, insect bites, and cuts. However, oil obtained through cold pressing (as opposed to steam distillation) can cause photosensitivity and irritate the skin.

Limes are native to Asia but are now cultivated in most warm-weather countries, such as Italy, the Antilles, and the Americas. Limes are green when raw and yellow when ripe, and are usually about two inches in diameter. They were introduced to Europe by the Moors and from there migrated to the Americas. Limes are said to have a lower vitamin C content than lemons. People often carried limes on long ship voyages to prevent sailors from getting sick from vitamin C deficiency.