Lime Oil - Aromatherapy Focus

Limes are not necessarily the first fruit that will come to mind when discussing aromatherapy but Lime oil has numerous health benefits making it an up and coming favourite amongst fans of holistic remedies. Pure lime oil (Citrus Aurantifolia) is a compound produced by cold pressing the peel of a lime from the Rutaceae plant family. The oil has a sharp citrus scent and is usually a pale yellow to olive colour.

Although not so commonly used in modern times historically sailors would never set sail without crates of limes on board. Limes are rich in vitamin C helping those on long sea journeys stave off scurvy and other skin complaints. It is due to limes being so rich in antioxidants and nutrients that the benefits still apply to our skin today.

Lime oil helps tone up your muscles, skin tissue and other systems within your body such as the respiratory and digestive systems. This is great news for those looking for a natural remedy to help reduce the appearance of aging symptoms such as wrinkles age spots and muscles weakness. Lime oil can also be successful in treating acne and other skin problems as it helps wash out impurities whilst promoting the growth of new cells. Not only that but some users have even reported a decrease in cellulite. Try adding a few drops to your usual lotions or coconut oil and massage into the area of concern.

Lime Oil and the Mind

Many people turn to essential oils to help uplift the mood and lime oil is great for calming the mind. You can help relieve stress, anxiety and exhaustion by diffusing a few drops of lime oil in a vaporizer. Most citrus oils are good for a pick me up whilst you are busy at work or studying. They can help to uplift your energy as well as allowing you to focus and aid with mental clarity. You can try adding a drop of lime oil to each glass of water you drink or you can apply topically or even inhale directly from the bottle if you're in a hurry.

Lime oil can also help with certain medical problems and concerns. It contains antiseptic properties helping to cure infections and protect against their development. When applied externally lime oil can cure infections on the skin and in wounds or add a few drops to hot tea to alleviate sore throats. Lime oil is a good bactericide and can be used in the treatment of food poisoning and diarrhea which is caused by bacteria. It is also a haemostatic which means it can help stop bleeding by promoting the coagulation of blood. It does this by means of contracting the blood vessels, because of this some people also find the topical application of lime all can also help relieve the discomfort of varicose veins as well as reducing the appearance.

Lime Oil and its uses in the Body

When our bodies are fighting infections such as colds and allergies we may experience a fever. Lime oil can be used as a febrifuge, which is another way of saying it can help reduce a fever. It’s antiviral and antibacterial properties will support the body in fighting infection. The refreshing qualities can also be used topically to cool down the body.

You may come across the fresh scent of lime in many natural cleaning products. This is because it is known for its disinfectant microbes. Lime oil can also be added to food to protect it from getting spoiled through infection from microbes. When consumed it can also cure microbial infection in the colon, urinary tract and kidneys. Lime oil can also be great for your hair. It can protect it from various infections like lice and ringworm as well as bringing the hair to life, reducing frizziness whilst also strengthening the roots.

There are some truly fantastic ways of experimenting with lime oil as well as diffusing. You could try adding a drop to your usual shampoo for added cleansing properties or add to your usual drinking water to benefit from its antioxidant properties as well as its delicious flavour. A great way to experience the benefits of lime oil on the go is to make Zen Roller Blend. Add 6 drops of Lime, Grapefruit and Bergamot oil, then 2 drops of Hawaiian Sandalwood into a 10ml roller bottle. Top it up with some fractionated coconut oil and then apply to the wrists or behind the ears when you need a mood uplift.

This oil can be vaporised, used topically and orally quite safely. However, as with all essential oils care should be taken and a patch test is always recommended. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding you should consult your doctor before testing any aromatherapy oils at home. Citrus oils such as limes are also photosensitive meaning they react to light and UV rays. If you do use lime oil topically and then go out into the sun it may cause a rash or pigmentation. Therefore, it is a good idea to wait a few hours after application before exposure to strong light.