The lime comes from a fruit tree that belongs to the citrus group. Its name can vary depending on the region, country or continent, since it is a very noble plant that grows in diverse climates around the world. It is believed that its origin occurred in South Asia, then spread to Egypt and Africa. Later it arrived at Europe, and finally it arrived at American lands after the discovery of the Spaniards.

This fruit has a predominant and characteristic smell as well as the oil that is extracted from it, which has led it to be the main essence of cleaning products and air fresheners. However, that was not the only use for which it has been useful. The oil is obtained from the skin of the fruit, by making cold pressure. It can be used in an edible way, inhaled or applied according to the use you want to give it and the benefits that you want to take advantage of. Due to its expansion throughout the world, there are many benefits of lime oil:

• Use in Food and Beverages:

– Food flavoring: Main ingredient to make dressings and enhance the flavor of some foods such as fish.
-To delay the ripening process of fruits after adding a few drops on the surface
-To promote the increase of appetite after inhalation. Recommended for patients who are going through a specific medical condition.

• Use for personal care:

-To reduce cellulite through lymphatic drainage using lime oil + juniper + nutmeg, treatment that must be performed by a specialist.
-Oil used for relaxing and anti-stress massages, its odor added to the massage technique allows to provide relaxation and eliminate stress.
-It helps to decrease conditions produced by the callosities, reason for which it is recommended to apply it on the affected areas and then it must be removed
-Strengthening the nails. It is mixed with almond oil and rubbed on the cuticles and nails to strengthen the cuticle and ensure its growth.

• Use for miscellaneous:

-Essence and fragrance for personal hygiene items such as bath oils, soaps, exfoliants, moisturizers, cleansing towels, among others
-Grease and residue cleaner on clothes lightly applied with cotton
-Oily hair can be controlled by adding drops of lime oil in regular use shampoo.

It is important to mention that the use of lime oil should be done with caution. In case it is used directly on the surface of the skin, sun exposure should be avoided as it can cause stains and irritations, so it is recommended to take the respective precautions when it is used for some aesthetic purpose, previously consulting a specialist so as not to cause major damage.

Lime oil can be purchased at natural stores. It is usually mixed with other types of oils such as: olive, lavender, neroli and coconut, to make the mixture lighter and more pleasant.

ALFA