Lime essential oil is one of the most underrated oils in aromatherapy. Thanks to its properties, it is used, amongst other things, in cosmetology. It also has a range of health benefits. How do you use lime essential oil? How do you prepare for aromatherapy?
Lime essential oil – key information
Lime is often associated with lemon. However, the scent is completely different – it is more refreshing and slightly more exotic. For many people, this very aroma is their favourite way to soothe their nerves or an essential addition to their beauty routine.
Lime essential oil has a range of uses. This product is valued mainly for its intense, fresh and invigorating scent. Due to its fairly high concentration, it can be used in standard aromatherapy diffusers. Scientists have thoroughly analysed the oil’s composition, identifying several key components. The most important of these, limonene, accounts for over 40 per cent of the oil’s composition. It is a monoterpene that exhibits anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. 16 per cent of the oil is gamma-terpinene, a substance that combats pathogens, whilst 13 per cent is beta-pinene, which has anxiolytic properties and helps to open up the airways. Substances such as alpha-pinene and sabinene have also been identified, accounting for a few per cent of the composition.
Extraction of lime essential oil
As with most citrus fruits, lime essential oil is extracted through a process of cold-pressing the fruit’s peel. Alternatively, the oil can be obtained through steam distillation, although this method is used far less frequently. Lime peel is a by-product of juice production.
Lime essential oil – properties and uses
Lime essential oil is primarily known for its beneficial effects on the immune system. As experts point out, it also soothes inflammation and acts as a ‘remedy’ for feeling under the weather. This substance has been extensively documented in scientific studies, which have focused mainly on its content of health-promoting compounds.
How should lime essential oil be used? What mistakes should be avoided?
Lime essential oil is used in medicine, cosmetics and aromatherapy. Here are some examples of how you can use it at home to enjoy its benefits:
- Inhalation – has antiseptic properties and helps to clear the airways, particularly in winter. Inhalations with this essential oil will also aid the treatment of upper respiratory tract infections. To prepare for inhalation, add a few drops of essential oil to steaming water (maximum temperature 80°C).
- Bath – simply add a few drops of essential oil to a bath of water to enjoy the relaxing and invigorating scent of fresh lime.
- Skincare – it can form the basis of a skincare routine or be used as an additional ingredient in skincare products. It is suitable for almost all skin types. It is also effective for acne-prone skin. By soothing inflammation, it minimises acne and helps eliminate pathogenic microorganisms. It inhibits bacterial growth, leaving the skin well-cared-for and radiant. However, it is important to remember not to apply it directly to the skin. Due to its high concentration, it may cause irritation, so it is best to mix it with the skincare products used in your morning or evening routine.
- Spray – lime essential oil can be used as an ingredient in a homemade air freshener.
- Aromatherapy – from a therapeutic perspective, lime essential oil helps to reduce stress and calm the mind. Simply inhale it regularly or as and when needed.Anessential oildiffuserworks best; start with around 10 drops and increase the amount as required.
As for potential mistakes when using the product, it is worth remembering that lime essential oil makes the skin more sensitive to sunlight and UV radiation. For this reason, you should not leave the house immediately after applying a cream containing the oil to your face, as this could even lead to sunburn. It is advisable to dilute it thoroughly beforehand and to apply sun cream after use.
Lime essential oil – interesting facts
- Lime essential oil is an important ingredient in a wide range of men’s fragrances. It is often used in perfumed waters and eau de toilette due to its refreshing scent and high appeal to women.
- It is estimated that around 2.8 million tonnes of lime peel are produced annually. Some of this is processed into increasingly popular therapeutic essential oils.
- Lime oil is very effective at repelling insects. Its sharp citrus scent deters mosquitoes in summer, which is why it is used in the production of insect repellents.
- The product is also a natural cleaning agent that works wonders on grease. Simply dilute it slightly and then apply it directly to the soiled area.
- According to the latest research, lime essential oil reduces the activity of free radicals in the body (high antioxidant potential as measured by the DPPH test).
Aromatherapy – what to blend lime essential oil with?
Lime essential oil can be used on its own or blended with other essential oils. It is also recommended to use it with argan oil, jojoba oil or olive oil. It can often be applied alongside other fruit oils, depending on individual preferences. Lime essential oil on its own can be mixed with your favourite face or body care product (lotion, cream, body milk), especially if these are organic products. Its effects will be noticeable after just a few uses, as it will visibly moisturise the face and brighten the skin.
Lime essential oil is a highly versatile product. It has a wide range of uses, depending on the individual’s preferences. Researchers specialising in aromatherapy recommend creating your own fragrance by combining this product with other fruit or herbal oils (e.g. peppermintoil). This will allow you to achieve a unique blend that is specific to you. Creating one’s own fragrance in this way influences one’s well-being and yields better results in subsequent aromatherapy sessions. When a person recognises the specific scent they have created, they find it easier to relax and allow the product to take effect, which leads to better outcomes.
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