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 which are known as limes. These include Key lime, kaffir lime, wild lime, desert lime, and Persian lime.
This zesty tropical fruit has been 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, lime essential oil is extensively used in aromatherapy and perfumes.
LIME NUTRIENT; Predominantly known for its ascorbic acid reserves, it provides 32% of the daily recommended vitamin C intake. It has high water content and a good source of minerals like calcium, iron, copper, sodium, magnesium phosphorus and potassium as well as vitamins like folate, vitamin C vitamin E, and vitamin k
Let’s take a look at some of the major benefits:
SKIN CARE; Lime juice contains healthy acids and helps remove dead cells when applied to the skin. It builds collagen, rejuvenates the skin, and improves overall texture. Vitamin C protects the skin from infections as well as cures rashes, acne, pimples, bruises, and blemishes. it also inhibit microbial growth, which helps prevent gum bleeding. It fights skin damage caused due to sun, dust, and pollution. Its antioxidant and astringent properties help reduce wrinkles, as well as cure dark spots, skin tan, and open pores. You can create a refreshing bathing experience by adding its juice to your bath. It also helps reduce body odor. For ages, use of lime is a well-known cure for scurvy, a disease caused due to the deficiency of vitamin C It is characterized by frequent infections that show as normal cold symptoms, cracked lips, and lip corners.
AIDS IN DIGESTION; It has an irresistible aroma which causes your mouth to water and this aids in digestion (the digestive saliva floods your mouth even before you taste it). The natural acidity of lime does the rest. While they break down the macromolecules of the food, the flavonoids stimulate the digestive system and increase secretion of digestive juices, bile, and acids. This also stimulates peristaltic motion. The ample amount of acid present in lime helps clean the excretory system. The roughage in lime is also helpful in easing constipation. An overdose of its juice with salt also acts as an excellent purgative without any side effects, thereby relieving constipation
FIGHTS INFECTION; Lime intake protects the body against various microbes, virus, and bacteria including Helicobacter pylori and Salmonella bacteria infections.
WEIGHT LOSS; A study conducted on mice shows that the essential oils found in it aid in reducing both body weight and food consumption. Also, the citric acid present in it is an excellent fat burner. A glass of warm water with the juice of an entire lime is an excellent weight reducer. You can consume two glasses of warm water with lime juice a day and see remarkable results within a week.
BY STEPHANIE ERDOO HEMEN
