Latin Name : Citrus Aurantifolia
Part Of Plant Used : Fruit Peel
Source : Mexico
Extraction Method : Cold Expression

Lime Essential Oil is obtained from Citrus aurantifolia, also known as Mexican or West Indian lime, as well as sour lime.  The oil is extracted from the peel of the unripe skin by   cold expression or from the peel and/or the whole ripe   fruit by steam distillation. Lime oil has a sharp, citrus   smell that immediately perks up one's mood on smelling it, and is pale yellow to light olive in colour.

Lime oil, when used in an oil burner, stimulates a tired   mind and helps ease anxiety, apathy, and depression. It is useful to reduce fevers associated with colds, sore   throats, and flu. It increases immunity while easing coughs, bronchitis, sinusitis, and asthma. It is said to be helpful for  arthritis, rheumatism and poor circulation, as well as for obesity and cellulite. This oil is good for the skin; it reduces oiliness and acne, helps with herpes, insect bites and cuts. However, the oil that is obtained by cold expression (as opposed to steam distillation) can cause photosensitivity and irritate the skin.

The lime is green when raw and ripens to yellow, and usually measures about two inches in diameter. It was introduced into Europe by the Moors and from there it migrated to the Americas. The lime is said to have a lower Vitamin C content than lemons do. People often carried limes on long ship journeys to prevent sailors getting scurvy from Vitamin C deficiency.