Extracted from a “citrus fruit” is an essential oil known as Lime Oil. This oil is derived from a hybrid citrus fruit belonging to the “Citrus Aurantifolia” within the plant kingdom. Furthermore, this oil is obtained using either the process of “steam distillation” or “cold compression”. In addition, this oil is extensively used in food items such as pickles, jams, marmalades, sauces, squash, desserts etc. This oil is also used in the manufacturing of a few industrial products.
A. Chemical constituents of Lime Oil:
This oil is basically derived from a “citrus fruit” belonging to the “Citrus Aurantifolia” within the plant kingdom. In addition, this oil comprises of organic compounds that include Alpha Pinene, Beta Pinene, Myrcene, Limonene, Terpinolene, Cineole, Linalool, Borneol, Citral, Neral Acetate and Geranyl Acetate.
B. The uses and benefits of Lime Oil:
There are a number of benefits that an individual can gain by using this oil. However, one should also consider the adverse reactions or side effects reported from its use:
1. Antiviral:
This oil comprises of a curative property and when used inhibits the growth of viruses, and thereby helps in the treatment of viral infections such as bronchitis.
2. Antipyretic:
This oil when used also helps in reducing the body temperature, and thereby inhibiting fever.
3. Antioxidant:
This oil when used also serves as an “antioxidant” by neutralizing harmful radicals within the body, and thereby preventing formation of wrinkles i.e. aging.
4. Antibacterial:
This oil possesses an “antibacterial” property and helps in inhibiting the growth of bacteria, and thereby helps in the treatment of conditions such as food poisoning, diarrhea, typhoid etc.
5. Hemostasis:
This oil comprises of a “Hemostatic” property and therefore helps by contracting blood vessels or by stimulating the coagulation of blood.
C. The adverse effects of Lime Oil:
There is one adverse effect that could occur on using this oil. It is as follows:
- This oil when applied and then directly exposed to sun can cause photosensitivity, and hence must be used with care.
