Lime Essential Oil

Latin Name: Citrus Aurantifolia

Part of Plant Used: Fruit Peel

Source: Mexico

Extraction Method: Cold Expression

Lime Essential Oil is obtained from Citrus aurantifolia, also known as Mexican or West Indian lime, as well as sour lime. The oil is extracted from the peel of the unripe skin by cold expression or from the peel and/or the whole ripe fruit by steam distillation. Lime oil has a strong citrus scent that immediately uplifts the mood upon smelling it, and is pale yellow to light olive in colour.

Lime oil, when used in an oil burner, stimulates the tired mind and helps to relieve anxiety, apathy and depression. It is helpful in reducing fevers associated with colds, sore throats and flu. It boosts immunity whilst easing 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 greasiness and acne, helps with herpes, insect bites and cuts. However, the oil that is obtained through cold expression (as opposed to steam distillation) can cause photosensitivity and irritate the skin.

Limes are native to Asia but are now grown in most warm countries such as Italy, the West Indies and the Americas. The lime is green when raw and ripens to yellow, and is usually about two inches in diameter. It was introduced to Europe by the Moors and from there migrated to the Americas. The lime is said to have a lower vitamin C content than lemons. People would often carry limes on long ship voyages to keep sailors from getting sick with vitamin C deficiency.