LIME FRUIT

Lime (Citrus aurantifolia), similar to the
lemon is a small, round green color hybrid citrus fruit and contains acidic juice vesicles. The lime fruit tends to be smaller and rounder (globular) than the lemon, and with a sweeter and more acidic pulp and a thinner rind.

This tropical fruit has been well known for its medicinal properties for ages. Due to its acidic sour juice and unique aroma, the lime fruit is widely used in various cuisines to accent flavor. It is used in cosmetic and health products too.

Well known for its ascorbic acid reserves, it provides the daily recommended vitamin C intake. It has high water content and a good source of minerals like calcium, iron, copper, sodium, magnesium, phosphorus and potassium as well as vitamins like folate, vitamin A, vitamin E, and vitamin K.

The unique thing about lime is that it has the least amount of calories, carbohydrates, and fats. Lime peel and pulp are also rich in dietary fiber, antioxidants, flavonol glycosides like kaempferol, as well as diverse phytochemicals like polyphenols, limonene, and terpenes.

Uses of Lime
Limes are used in various ways:
Lime juice adds flavor to soups, salads, vegetables, and also baked foods. It is also widely used in the preparation of desserts, pickles , jams, jellies, snacks, and candies.

It is used in cosmetic products like body oil, hair oil, toothpaste, beauty soap, disinfectant, mouthwash, and deodorant.

Because of their antibacterial, antiseptic, and disinfectant properties, the peel, oil, and juice of the fruit have medicinal uses. It is also used in making anti-congestive medicines and to treat severe diarrhea.

Health Benefits of Lime

Fights Cancer
Antioxidant-packed phytochemicals like flavonoids, flavones, triterpenoid, and limonoids in lime have potent cancer-fighting properties. They can stop the growth of various cancer cells preventing colon, breast, prostate, pancreatic, stomach, lungs, kidneys, and blood cancer. It is also
capable of eradicating cancer cells in some cases.

Fights Infections
Lime intake protects the body against various microbes, virus, and bacteria infections.

Treats Urinary Infections
Limes contain high potassium which is very effective in the removal of toxic substances and the precipitates deposited in the kidneys and the urinary bladder. The disinfectant properties of lime also help cure infections in the urinary system.

Treats Inflammation
Citrus fruits generally have anti-inflammatory properties and can be used for a number of inflammatory issues.

Increases Iron Absorption
Those suffering from iron-deficiency anemia symptoms like dizziness, brittle nails, hair loss, and fatigue should add lime to their diet! Vitamin C in lime when taken with foods rich in iron helps maximize the body’s ability to absorb iron.

Treats Piles
Since it helps heal ulcers and wounds in the digestive and excretory system while providing relief from constipation, it eradicates all the root causes of piles. It can help prevent pile formation or recurrence.

Prevents Diabetics
The high levels of soluble fiber present in lime help regulate the body’s absorption of sugar into the bloodstream. This invariably helps reduce the occurrence of blood sugar spikes that are a serious risk to diabetic patients.

Treats Respiratory Disorders
Just scratching the peel of a lime and inhaling it gives immediate relief from congestion and nausea. The flavonoid-rich oil that is extracted from limes is extensively used in anti-congestive medicines such as balms, vaporizers, and inhalers due to the presence of kaempferol.