Lime Organic Essential Oil (Citrus aurantifolia) – Italy

Description

Lime Organic Essential Oil

***Lime Organic Essential Oil – History***        

Lime Organic Essential Oil is extracted from the peel of the lime fruit, scientifically known as Citrus aurantifolia. Originating in Southeast Asia, particularly in India or Malaysia, lime essential oil has a rich history deeply intertwined with the fruit’s cultural and medicinal significance. In traditional Indian and Chinese medicine, lime has long been valued for its cooling and detoxifying properties. The oil was utilised to treat a diverse range of ailments, including digestive issues, colds, and fevers. Lime trees spread throughout the Middle East and the Mediterranean via trade routes and eventually reached Europe via the Crusaders in the 12th century.

Limes gained significant historical importance during the Age of Exploration. European sailors during the 15th to 18th centuries, particularly those from the British Navy, carried citrus fruits like limes on extended sea voyages to combat scurvy, a disease caused by vitamin C deficiency. This led to British sailors being known as “limeys.” The popularity of lime oil surged as Europeans became cognisant of its medicinal properties. Lime oil was incorporated into tonics, remedies, and even employed as an antiseptic for wounds.

The distillation of lime essential oil commenced once steam distillation became widely recognised, particularly during the 18th and 19th centuries. Lime oil can also be cold-pressed from the peel, a method often employed for producing high-quality oils. The oil gained prominence in perfumery due to its zesty and invigorating aroma, harmoniously blending with other citrus and floral oils. Lime essential oil was integrated into natural medicine and aromatherapy for its uplifting, cleansing, and energising effects.

***Lime Organic Essential Oil – Benefits***

Today, lime organic essential oil holds significant importance in aromatherapy due to its invigorating, tangy, and uplifting aroma. Its vibrant and tangy scent, coupled with its multifaceted health benefits, has established it as a cornerstone in natural wellness, and perfumery. The aroma of lime organic essential oil possesses the remarkable ability to elevate mood, enhance mental clarity, promote alertness, and provide an energy surge.

Its refreshing scent serves as an effective stress reliever and anxiety combatant, making it a common ingredient in blends designed to uplift the spirit and alleviate symptoms of depression. While lime organic essential oil exhibits energising qualities, it also possesses the calming effect, enabling it to reduce anxiety and restlessness when used in moderation.

Lime organic essential oil is believed to possess antibacterial and antiviral properties, making it a sought-after choice in aromatherapy for boosting immunity, particularly during the cold and flu season. Its invigorating and refreshing aroma contributes to the clearing of airways and may support respiratory health when diffused. Lime organic oil finds its way into skincare routines due to its toning and astringent properties, effectively managing acne, oily skin, and brightening complexions. Lime organic essential oil is utilised in cleaning products for its pleasant scent and antimicrobial properties.

✅ 100% Pure Organic Essential Oil

✅ Vegan-friendly and Cruelty-free

***Botanical Name*** Citrus aurantifolia 

***Family*** Rutaceae 

***Origin*** Italy  

***Plant Part*** Fruit Peel   

***Extraction Method*** Cold Pressed

***Aroma*** It has a vibrant, zesty, and citrusy aroma that is reminiscent of fresh limes.

***Colour*** Pale Yellow – Greenish Hue

***Consistency*** Thin

***Note*** Top

***Strength*** Medium

***Blends With*** Lime organic essential oil harmonises well with a diverse range of essential oils, including Rosewood, Rosemary, Cypress, Neroli, Lavender, Geranium, Eucalyptus, and Ylang ylang. These are merely a few examples of essential oils that complement lime organic essential oil. By experimenting with various combinations, you can create distinctive aromas that cater to your preferences and therapeutic objectives.

***Chemical Composition*** Lime organic essential oil is composed of a wide variety of chemical compounds that contribute to its therapeutic properties. The exact composition can vary depending on factors like the geographic origin, and the method of extraction. However, the primary chemical constituents of lime organic essential oil are as follows: Limonene, γ-terpinene, Citral, Linalool, α-Pinene, β-Pinene, Sabinene, Myrcene, Terpinolene, Caryophyllene, Geranial, Neryl Acetate, Geranyl Acetate. While these are the primary constituents, the oil may also contain minor components in smaller quantities, which collectively contribute to its overall aroma and therapeutic properties.

***Storage Conditions*** Store lime organic essential oil in a cool, dark location, shielded from direct sunlight, to prevent oxidation and degradation of its aromatic and therapeutic properties.

***Shelf Life*** 1 – 2 years

***Product Safety*** Free from potentially harmful substances like sulphates, parabens, phthalates, synthetic fragrances, formaldehydes, and mineral oil.

⚠️Caution⚠️ Lime organic essential oil offers numerous benefits, but it’s important to exercise caution when using it due to its specific characteristics. Here are some precautions to keep in mind when using lime essential oil:

• ***Skin Irritation*** Lime organic essential oil is considered a “hot” oil and may cause skin irritation or sensitisation, especially when used undiluted or in high concentrations. Always perform a patch test by diluting the oil in a carrier oil (such as coconut oil or jojoba oil) and applying a small amount to a small area of skin to check for any adverse reactions before using it more extensively. Avoid contact with eyes, inner ears, and sensitive areas. 
• ***Phototoxicity*** Lime organic essential oil may cause photosensitivity, increasing the skin’s sensitivity to sunlight and potentially leading to sunburn or skin damage. Avoid direct sunlight or UV exposure for up to 12 hours after topical application of lime essential oil to reduce the risk of photosensitivity reactions.
• ***Pregnancy and Nursing*** Avoid lime organic essential oil during pregnancy, especially in the first trimester due to its potential to stimulate menstruation or contractions. Nursing mothers should consult a healthcare provider before use, as the strong aroma may affect infants.
• ***Children and Pets*** Essential oils should be used with caution around children and pets. Lime organic essential oil, especially in its undiluted form, can be too strong for them and may cause adverse reactions. Keep it out of reach of pets and children, and be cautious when diffusing it around them, as it may be toxic to them if ingested.
• ***Internal Use*** While lime oil is commonly used in culinary applications, ingesting lime organic essential oil can be toxic and may lead to adverse effects. Always use food-grade lime oil from reputable sources and consult with a healthcare professional before internal use.
• ***Medical Conditions*** Combining with lime organic essential oil with photosensitising drugs (e.g., Tetracyclines, Thiazide diuretics,  Retinoids (like Accutane), NSAIDs like naproxen) may intensify skin photosensitivity. Lime organic essential oil may cause slight lowering of blood pressure; combining with meds might lead to hypotension. Lime organic essential oil may lower blood sugar levels, which could worsen hypo-glycemia or interfere with diabetes medications (e.g., insulin, metformin). Lime may have mild anticoagulant (blood-thinning) properties, combining with blood thinners (e.g., warfarin, aspirin) could increase bleeding risk. It is always a good idea to consult a healthcare provider if you are taking prescription medications or have a medical condition.
• ***Allergies*** Some individuals may be allergic to lime organic essential oil. If you have a known allergy to citrus fruits or other essential oils, use lime organic essential oil with caution and monitor for any allergic reactions such as skin rash, itching, or respiratory symptoms. Inhalation might trigger breathing issues in people with asthma or sensitivities. Always discontinue use if you experience any signs of an allergic reaction.

***Note*** Although essential oils have a longstanding history of use and are valued for their potential benefits, individual experiences may vary.