General Description

Whilst numerous species of Lime exist the most popular specie used in aromatherapy today is Citrus Aurantifolia, the fruit of which is commonly referred to as Mexican Lime and Bartenders Lime! Another Lime fruit, species Citrus x latifolia is known as the Persian and Tahiti lime. The biggest producer of all Lime species is USA, followed by Mexico and West Indies.

History

The juice of the Lime fruit has a very high Vitamin C content and was consumed daily by British sailors in the early 18th century to prevent scurvy and consequently British sailors became known as ‘limeys’!

Extraction

Expressed material is a light yellow colour and serves no real purpose in aromatherapy as it is photosensitizing. Instead we encourage the use of Lime distilled essential oil in aromatherapy, which is obtained via steam distillation of the fruit rind and is clear in colour. The main chemical constituents of Lime essential oil are citral, , limonene, linalol and linalyl acetate which is a key constituent in Lavender oils.

Aromatherapy Uses of Lime Essential Oil

Lime Essential Oil has a wealth of therapeutic uses and like most citrus essential oils Lime oil is clearly uplifting on the human spirit and is a useful oil for anyone who is in need of mental clarity. Try burning this oil in an oil burner whilst you work and you maybe surprised at how more productive you are.

Much research has been carried out over the years to see if any essential oils are useful in aiding the daily life of people whom have Asthma. Lime Oil is commonly regarded as been useful for Asthma sufferers. As an asthmatic sufferer myself I find Lime Oil and Frankincense Oil to be most useful in keeping my airways open and enabling me to breathe easily. Try adding 2 drops of Frankincense essential oil to a bowl of hot water along with 4 drops of Lime essential oil. Lean over the bowl with a towel over your head and inhale the aromas for 20 minutes, this really is invaluable for asthmatic sufferers in my humble opinion.

Due to the natural chemistry of Lime it has superb astringent properties which make it great for treating conditions such as oily skin and acne. Lime essential oil is most useful for easing pain in muscles and joints when used in massage.

Safety Data

Lime Distilled Essential Oil is very safe when used within the normal therapeutic guidelines.