Lime: health benefits and harms

Lime is a citrus fruit that has the aroma of a cool blow of fresh wind. Such a comparison is not accidental, since the culture grows on elevations and prefers mountainous terrain. Lime tree fruits have a large number of useful properties and are used in various fields - from medicine and cosmetology to cooking and the manufacture of alcoholic beverages.

What is lime and how does it look

Lime is an evergreen plant belonging to the genus Citrus and the family Rutov. The height of the tree varies between 1.5–5 m, it has a dense crown and branches covered with small thorns. If we talk about the fruits, the first thing worth noting is the similarity with lemon. They have an ovoid shape and a green or yellow color. The homeland of this culture is the Malacca Peninsula (Southeast Asia).

It is known that in the Mediterranean lime came back as early as 1 millennium BC, and they began to engage in its active cultivation only in the second half of the 19th century. The plant feels comfortable in a tropical climate, but citrus is especially popular in areas with high humidity. It is important to note that when the temperature drops to zero or below, lime trees die. The largest exporters are countries such as Mexico, Cuba, Egypt and India.

Kinds

1. Sweet. The diameter of the fruit is up to 8 cm. The taste is very sweet, the aroma is intense, while there is no acid (due to the high concentration of sugar).
2. Musky. Another name for the species is kalamansi. The fruits are very sour, the taste is similar to both tangerine and lemon. The species is very popular in the Philippines.
3. Rangipur. The diameter of the fruit is up to 5 cm. The pulp and peel has a dark orange color.
4. Palestinian. The taste of the fruit is not very pronounced, the shape is round. Citrus is used to make soft drinks, including limeade.
5. Kaffir. The plant reaches 3 m in height. The fruits practically do not contain juice, therefore, as a rule, only zest of fruit is used to prepare dishes. This element gives the food a characteristic rich aroma. Very popular in Thailand, Cambodia and Indonesia.
6. Mexican. Another name is West Indian. Plant height - about 4.5 m, growth form - bush. Juicy fruits have a strongly acidic taste, their diameter is about 6 cm. A variety of fruits is used in the manufacture of various oils.
7. Bearss Other names are Persian and Tahiti. The height of the plant is about 6 m. It is widely popular. Fruits practically do not contain seeds.

What is the difference between lime and lemon

Despite the fact that lime and lemon are similar to each other, they have some differences. Each of the citrus fruits has its own distinctive characteristic taste and smell. Some researchers even have assumptions that fruits are not “brothers”, but fall under the definitions of “ancestor” and “descendant”. If you follow this idea, then we can say that lime is one of the founders of the glorious kind of citrus, which has deservedly enjoyed wide popularity for centuries.

The color of lemon fruits is yellow, lime - green. The first citrus has a sour taste, the second with bitterness.The flesh of the first is transparent green-yellow, the second is saturated green. Unlike lime, which bears fruit year-round, lemon only produces crops once a year. It is also worth noting that green fruit can be stored for about 2 weeks, yellow - for several months. If we talk about the beneficial properties of fruits, they have many similarities, so both are indispensable in the diet.

Composition and calorie content

100 g of product contain:

• calories - 30 kcal;
• proteins - 0.7 g;
• fats - 0.2 g;
• carbohydrates - 7.7 g.

Lime contains vitamins A, B and C, as well as phosphorus, potassium, calcium, iron, thiamine and riboflavin. The product is rich in ascorbic acid, which supports blood vessels, pectin, which helps to eliminate toxins from the body, and essential oils that normalize digestion.

Useful properties of lime

General benefit

1. Supports skin health. Lime is rich in beneficial acids, so it can be used as a means for applying to the skin, which helps to remove dead cells. Once in the body, citrus juice stimulates the production of collagen, thereby rejuvenating the skin and improves its overall texture. Vitamin C protects the skin from various infections, helps get rid of rashes, acne and age spots. The fruit also helps fight skin damage caused by sun exposure and environmental substances. Its antioxidant and astringent properties will help slow down the formation of wrinkles and narrow pores. Lime juice can also reduce body odor.
2. Supports digestive health. Lime has properties that make the body respond to a product with increased saliva production. However, it may begin to stand out even before the citrus enters the mouth. This effect promotes digestion. In addition, the substances contained in fruits stimulate the digestive system and increase the secretion of digestive juices. The peristaltic movement responsible for the movement of food through the intestines is also activated. The acids present in the product help cleanse the excretory system. Lime fruits can relieve constipation. Citrus juice acts as an excellent laxative, but it does not have any side effects. It is worth noting that drinks based on citrus fruits are used in some Asian countries as a means to improve digestion and relieve discomfort in the digestive tract. For example, lime juice taken before meals can prevent symptoms of heartburn and acid reflux.
3. Fights infections. Consuming lime protects the body against a variety of germs, viruses and bacteria, including Helicobacter pylori and Salmonella.
4. Regulates sugar levels. The soluble fibers contained in lime make it an effective tool for regulating blood glucose. This helps reduce sugar spikes, which pose a serious health risk for diabetes. In addition, the fruit has a low glycemic index, which reduces the risk of sudden spikes in glucose levels.
5. Prevents heart disease. Thanks to the vitamin C found in citrus, lime has protective properties that help fight coronary heart disease. Soluble fiber and limonin help lower blood pressure. This complex reduces blood vessel inflammation and helps reduce the risk of heart disease. Potassium and magnesium improve blood circulation and also enhance heart health, while lowering the risk of stroke. This helps to slow the progression of heart disease and atherosclerosis by reducing fat in the arteries. Hesperidin - a flavonoid present in the fruit, lowers cholesterol and triglycerides in the body, which also positively affects heart health.
6. Struggling with oncology. Lime has anti-cancer properties. This citrus is especially useful for cancer therapy.The reason for this is the ability to absorb free radicals and reduce oxidative stress. Flavonoids, flavones, triterpenoids and limonoids contained in the product are active and powerful substances in the fight against the disease. They can stop the growth and spread of cancer cells, prevent oncology of the colon, breast, prostate and pancreas, stomach, lungs, kidneys and blood.
7. Relieves inflammation. Citrus fruits have anti-inflammatory properties, so they can be used in case of inflammatory diseases. One of the causes of arthritis is excessive accumulation of uric acid in the body. Citric acid in lime is a solvent that is just right for dissolving uric acid. With an increase in citric acid, the urinary concentration decreases in the body.
8. It is a prophylaxis of kidney stones. Citric acid found in lime juice can prevent, and in some cases even eliminate kidney stones. The study showed that with regular use of citrus lemonade, the risk of kidney stone formation is significantly reduced.
9. Strengthens the immune system. Lime supports the immune system, helps prevent various infections from entering the body, and acts as a preventative measure for diseases such as malaria, diarrhea, and pneumonia. In addition, vitamin C helps fight colds and boosts the body’s overall immunity.
10. Helps in the absorption of iron. The substances contained in lime help the body absorb iron better. People who suffer from symptoms of iron deficiency anemia, such as dizziness, brittle nails, hair loss and fatigue, are encouraged to pay attention to lime, as this fruit can help alleviate these symptoms.
11. It treats peptic ulcer disease. Citrus contains special compounds - flavonoids, which have antioxidant, anticarcinogenic, antibiotic and detoxifying properties. Lime acids interact with gastric juice, leading to alkaline reactions. This allows you to stimulate the healing process of ulcers.
12. Good for the eyes. The antioxidant properties of lime protect the eyes from macular degeneration. In addition, flavonoids protect them from infections.
13. Lowers body temperature. Lime has antipyretic properties, so it can be used as a natural remedy to lower body temperature.
14. Useful for gout. There are two main causes of gout. The first is the accumulation of free radicals, and the second is an excess of toxins, especially uric acid. Thanks to antioxidants, vitamin C and flavonoids, lime can combat the negative effects of these processes.

For women

Lime is good for women for several reasons. Flavonoids present in citrus are involved in the processes associated with the synthesis of collagen and elastin, promote rejuvenation and smooth the skin. The fruit stands to protect the skin from damage that can be caused by solar radiation. It is rich in organic acids that accelerate lipid (fat) metabolism and stimulate calorie burning. The product also contributes to the normalization of the female hormonal background, disorders of which are often manifested in skin problems and overweight.

Lime juice is widely used by professional cosmetics manufacturers, as well as just in home recipes as a means for whitening, cleansing and drying the skin. The only thing women should pay attention to when using this fruit is moderation. Since with an excess of vitamin C in the body, allergic reactions can occur.

For men

The useful properties of lime can be used by men. Citrus will help prevent the occurrence of diseases related to the genitourinary system. For example, it will reduce the risk of prostatitis, support the health of the reproductive system.Especially fruit is useful in cases where violations are associated with stressful conditions, exhaustion of the body and poor blood circulation.

Minerals and flavonoids in the fruit will help build muscle, increase physical stamina, and also strengthen the musculoskeletal system. The cleansing properties of the product are useful for those who are engaged in hazardous production or work in a polluted environment.

It is worth knowing that with excessive consumption of lime, testosterone production may weaken and phosphorus-calcium metabolism may worsen.

During pregnancy

Lime is a rich source of healthy vitamins and minerals that a pregnant woman needs. Nevertheless, during this period, some rules for the consumption of citrus fruits should be observed so that they do not harm health. It is worth gradually introducing this product into use, while it is better to start with freshly squeezed juice. Fruit juices are very useful at this time, because they help maintain the pregnant woman’s body in a healthy state and provide nutrients.

Some women have an acute desire to include citruses in their diet. Sometimes it can be caused by a deficiency of vitamin C in the body. In this case, lime comes to the rescue, as, like most citrus fruits, it is an excellent source of vitamin C. The use of lime juice during pregnancy is approved and even recommended by many experts, since this product does not cause any side effects.

In addition to these advantages, the fruit has a number of other beneficial properties. Constipation and indigestion are an integral part of pregnancy. Lime softens intestinal irritation, prevents constipation and diarrhea. Regular consumption of fruit juice facilitates the bowel movement and helps with digestive upsets. Citrus is also rich in antioxidants, which help to eliminate toxins and free radicals from the body. Most importantly, it can protect against colds, which are especially dangerous during pregnancy.

Lime has a beneficial effect not only on mom, but also on her baby. The fruit contains quite a lot of potassium, which helps in the development of bone tissue, and also contributes to the development of brain and nerve cells of the fetus. High blood pressure during pregnancy can lead to preeclampsia, a condition that threatens the life of the fetus and increases the likelihood of premature birth. Lime juice will lower blood pressure and help to avoid unpleasant consequences.

Citrus will also relieve a common problem - swelling of the legs. Regular consumption of fruit juices will prevent heartburn and bloating. A good source of calcium and magnesium, lime helps treat asthma, the common cold, scurvy, and fever, promotes proper absorption of iron, and prevents anemia during pregnancy.

When breastfeeding

Nursing mothers are not recommended to include lime in their diet, as it contains quite a lot of citric acid, which can provoke an upset stomach in the baby. The children's, still weak gastrointestinal tract will not be able to cope with the acidic components of the product, which will lead to unpleasant symptoms, which are very undesirable in the early months. Nevertheless, do not completely eliminate citrus fruits from your diet. In a minimal amount, fruits can still be consumed, but it is necessary to monitor the condition of the child.

For kids

Since lime is oversaturated with trace elements, it is not recommended to include it in baby food up to 3 years.After reaching the age of three, the fruit is already considered a necessary element of the child’s diet, provided there are no allergic reactions and contraindications. In citrus, calcium and vitamin D are present - substances that the body needs to build healthy bone tissue. B vitamins and magnesium are involved in processes associated with the development of the central nervous system.

Lime is especially useful in the case of any infectious disease. Like all citrus fruits, it has bactericidal properties and helps to destroy bacteria and viruses.

Since the product may be too acidic for the baby, it can be diluted with water. Such diluted drinks can be used both internally and used to rinse the mouth and throat.

Fruits must be peeled before consumption, as they can cause indigestion or food poisoning.

When losing weight

Substances contained in lime can help in the process of losing weight. Citric acid is an excellent fat burner. The composition of this product contains only 30 kcal per 100 g. In addition, it contains many vitamins, minerals and organic acids, fiber, carbohydrates, a small amount of protein and a lot of water.

Usually drinks based on lime are prepared for weight loss. The most popular is a mixture of freshly squeezed juice and water. Such a cocktail is an effective aid to get rid of extra pounds. Lime water is an excellent source of vitamin C. A lack of this vitamin in the diet can negatively affect weight loss. Vitamin C plays an important role in helping the body break down fats.

The benefits of lime zest

Lime zest has a number of unique culinary characteristics, has an original green color and a sour taste with bitterness, as well as a delicious aroma. But, in addition to this, it has a healing effect on the body. Zest can be used as a prophylaxis of viral and colds. It will have an antiseptic and antibacterial effect, help in case of purulent tonsillitis and redness of the throat. It contains ascorbic acid, which will increase the body's defenses and support the functioning of the immune system.

It is worth noting the benefits of this product for the digestive tract. Acids and oils in the composition will help speed up the metabolism, increase appetite and stimulate the production of gastric juice. The peel will also have a beneficial effect on the nervous system. It will relieve depression and stress, weaken irritability and nervousness. The peel will also support the work of the kidneys, improve blood composition and accelerate the loss of extra pounds. Another important property is that lime zest can help normalize the frequency and strength of the heartbeat. Sometimes it is used as a prophylaxis of diseases of the gums and teeth, as it can prevent tooth decay, the formation of plaque and stone.

The benefits and harms of lime tea

Tea with lime will help strengthen immunity and improve the functioning of all body systems. In addition, the drink has a number of useful properties that can help the body cope with various problems. It can be used in such situations:

• with kidney disease;
• as a prophylaxis against cardiovascular disease;
• in case of depression and bad mood;
• with chronic fatigue.

However, tea has some contraindications. For example, you should not use it:

• with gastritis;
• high acidity of the stomach;
• allergies
• pancreatitis;
• peptic ulcer.

You should not add fruit seeds to tea, as they contain toxic substances. Also, you should not drink this drink before bedtime, as in the morning dark circles under the eyes and swelling may appear.

What is useful lime with water

Lime has a sharp sour taste, so it is somewhat problematic to include it in food in its natural form. To make lime juice more palatable, it can be diluted with water. Such a drink will bring invaluable benefits to the body. It will rejuvenate and moisturize the skin, improve digestion, support the body in the fight against viruses and bacteria. In addition, it can be used during weight loss, as it enriches the body with substances that accelerate metabolism, and also helps to remove toxins and waste from it. The tool will be useful for violations of the heart, in cases of various inflammations and with elevated blood sugar.

Lime oil: properties and applications

An interesting fact is that the healing properties of lime oil differ from the properties of lemon. Lime oil has tonic, bactericidal, antiviral, antiseptic, regenerating and soothing properties. It is used to treat colds, it helps relieve symptoms and relieves foci of inflammation. This product can also be used for sore throats, to speed up the treatment of problems with the upper respiratory tract. It has a beneficial effect on almost all body systems. For example, a product can help with neurosis and tachycardia, with stress and psychosomatic disorders.

The benefits of lime juice

When comparing lime juice and lemon juice, you can see that the first consistency is more dense, saturated, sour and harsh, while there is a slight bitterness. Despite the sour taste, the drink will not cause irritation to the mucous membrane of the stomach, nor will it harm the enamel. Juice helps to reduce the level of "bad" cholesterol in the blood and reduces the risk of developing atherosclerosis. With regular use, cells can stay young longer, so the aging process will slow down. The juice contains valuable acids - malic and citric - they contribute to better absorption of iron and are involved in the process of hematopoiesis. Ascorbic acid will help whiten tooth enamel.

The benefits and harms of dried lime

Dried lime has a number of beneficial properties that intersect with those of fresh citrus. Is he:

• helps with puffiness and varicose veins;
• relieves depressive states;
• improves metabolism;
• normalizes sleep, appetite and digestion;
• helps to remove toxins from the body;
• strengthens the walls of capillaries;
• relieves inflammation and skin irritation;
• fights toxicosis.

Dried lime has many useful properties, but there are contraindications to its use. It should not be used:

• with high acidity of the juice of the stomach;
• intestinal and stomach ulcers;
• pancreatitis;
• problems with tooth enamel;
• gastritis;
• breastfeeding;
• allergic reactions.

Also, the product is harmful to children under 3 years.

The use of lime in traditional medicine

With flatulence

1. Grated pulp of ginger root (1 tsp) mix with lime juice (1 tsp).
2. Take the product immediately after eating.

To rinse the mouth

1. Add lime oil (1 drop) to water (1/2 cup) and mix.
2. Rinse mouth but do not swallow.
3. At the end, rinse the mouth with water.

For massage

1. In lime oil (3-5 drops) add vegetable oil (10 g) and mix.
2. The tool is used for massage.

Lime in cosmetology

Lime has a rich chemical composition, so it can be used as a component in various cosmetics. If you regularly use lime, it will help reduce oily skin, relieve ugly shine, narrow pores, and make them invisible.

For face

Cleansing mask

1. Chopped lime zest (1 tsp) mixed with liquid honey (2 tbsp) and a few drops of tea tree.
2. Apply the mask to the skin for 15 minutes.
3. Wash off with cool water.

For dry skin

1. Mix lime juice (1 tsp) with cottage cheese (1 tbsp) and olive oil (1 tsp).
2. Apply mask on face for 15 minutes.
3. Wash off with water.

Smoothing mask

1. Mix olive oil (2 tsp) with lime juice (1/2 tsp) and beat.
2. Apply the mixture to the skin for 30 minutes.
3. Wash off with water.

For enrichment of cosmetics
Add lime (4-6 drops) to the base base (10 g - it can be almond oil, macadamia or apricot kernel, face lotion, night cream).

For hair

With hair loss

1. Beat the egg yolk (1 pc.).
2. Finely chop the banana (1/2 pc.).
3. Mix the yolk with a banana and beat in a blender.
4. Add beer (1/2 cup) and honey (1 tbsp) and mix well.
5. Apply a mask to the scalp.
6. Hold 2.5 hours.
7. Wash hair with cool water using shampoo (you can rinse 2 times).

For shine hair

1. Put jojoba oil (25 ml) in a water bath and heat.
2. In lime juice (1 tablespoon) add honey (2 tablespoons) and mix.
3. Apply to hair, wrap head with a bag (plastic), and towel on top.
4. Wait 30 minutes.
5. Rinse hair with warm water and shampoo.

Hair conditioner

1. Add lime juice (1/2 pcs.) To the water (2 l) and mix.
2. Rinse hair with shampoo after shampooing (no need to re-wash).

Harm and contraindications

Lime has some contraindications. For example, in infants, when a mother consumes citrus, allergic reactions can occur. It is also necessary to know that the bones found in the fruits are poisonous. In addition, the fruit is rich in substances that can trigger exacerbations of various gastrointestinal diseases.

Here is a list of diseases in which lime is contraindicated:

• acute jade;
• pancreatitis
• hepatitis diseases;
• cholecystitis;
• colitis and enterocolitis;
• ulcer.

If you have these diagnoses, you should consult your doctor before using citrus.

How to choose and store lime

Since lime is a perishable product, you must be especially careful when choosing a fruit at the time of purchase. To do this, the fruit must be carefully examined. Good quality fruits have a green, slightly yellowish color, while they should shine a little. If the peel has a matte shade, then this suggests that the fruit is overripe. When pressing on the fruit with a fingernail, the peel of a ripe lime should be straightened, if there is just a dent, then the product is considered overripe.

To store whole fruits, it should be noted that they can lie on the shelf in the refrigerator for about a week. It is recommended to place them in a refrigerator (in the fruit compartment) and store at a temperature of about 7–8 ° C, so they will be fresh for about 2 weeks. The sliced ​​lime should be wrapped in a paper towel, then add vinegar (a few drops) and place on a plate in the refrigerator. Fruits will be able to lie fresh for about 7 days.

How to eat lime

Lime can be consumed in the same way as lemon. For example, fruits can simply be sliced ​​and sprinkled with sugar. This dish is a great addition to salads and desserts. For those who love the thrill, you can use a different method. To do this, you just need to peel the citrus and eat it, disassembled into slices. It is important to note that lime must always be fresh, because after processing it loses most of its useful properties.

What can I make from lime?

Lime is great for making herbal teas and tonics. In addition, the fruit is used to make soft drinks, as well as various alcoholic and non-alcoholic cocktails and drinks. Lime juice and zest are often used to prepare marinades for meat (juice softens meat and improves the taste of cooked dishes). Pickled lime is an integral part of Indian cuisine. Citrus marmalade is popular in Australia.

Interesting Lime Facts

1. Scurvy (a disease caused by vitamin C deficiency) was widespread among sailors in the 19th century.Because lemon was expensive, lime was chosen as the second best natural cure for this disease. British sailors were forced to consume one fruit a day to prevent the development of scurvy.
2. Lime can be used as a lemon substitute, because both fruits have a sour taste and a similar vitamin content.
3. The extracts of essential oils from lime are used in the cosmetic industry for the production of flavorings. Typical lime citrus aroma is popular and often used in the manufacture of cleansers and aromatherapy.
4. Lime pickles are an integral part of Indian cuisine.
5. Lime is a common ingredient in authentic Mexican, Vietnamese and Thai dishes.
6. Lime soup is a traditional dish of the Mexican state of Yucatan.
7. If, after contact with the skin or lime juice, the skin of a person is exposed to ultraviolet radiation, a reaction called phyto-photodermatitis can occur, which will cause darkening of the skin, swelling, or even blistering.
8. Lime is a perennial plant with a lifespan of more than 10 years.

Lime photo