The first fruit that comes to mind in terms of medicinal uses is the reliable lime. This sour citrus fruit can do what many advanced medicines cannot. Lime, bearing the scientific name Citrus Aurantifolia, has been used for ages in the treatment of various ailments.
Lime is “Super Lemon” that improves digestion, prevents constipation and urinary infections, relieves respiratory discomfort and symptoms of the skin and gingivitis and it is useful in weight loss diets. It is also is used for cooking and cosmetics.
Scented oils that are contained in the fruit are can improve digestion and a cup of hot water with dissolved lime juice can help in weight loss.
Essential oils found in the lime can increase the secretion of the stomach juice and bile acids and can stimulate the intestinal peristalsis. The lime is also recommended for constipation. These oils are used for preparation of balsams and inhalers, which are facilitating the breathing and respiratory disturbances caused by respiratory infections.
Nutritional Value
This fruit has green bark and light green pulp and belongs to the citrus family, like lemon. Approximately 100 g of lime contains 32 calories, 11.5 g carbohydrate, 1.7 g sugar, 0.25 g fat, 0.8 g protein and even 28.5 mg of vitamin C. This fruit has strong antibacterial properties.
Lime juice is enriched with Vitamin C. It has 9.2mg of Vitamin C per oz. It contains many other important nutrients like Vitamin A, Vitamin E, Vitamin K, Calcium, Folate, Magnesium, Potassium, Choline, Phosphorus, and Betaine.
Healing Benefits of Lime
Lime occupies an important place among the fruits that possess medicinal properties. The seeds, flesh, and rind of this fruit have medicinal properties. Lime juice possesses healing and curative properties. This fruit has been mentioned in ancient Indian and Chinese medicinal texts due to its health benefits.
Treats Arthritis – Arthritis is caused due to the accumulation of excess uric acid in the body. This uric acid is a waste product that is normally removed through urination. But when excess uric acid builds up, it worsens the pain and inflammation of arthritis. The citric acid found in citrus fruits like limes dissolves the uric acid, causing the elimination of greater amounts through urine. Lime also possesses anti-inflammatory properties that can help ease pain and inflammation.
Helps with Constipation – Primarily, the ample amount of acids present in lime helps clear the excretory system by washing and cleaning off the tracts, just as some acids are used to clean floors and toilets. The roughage in lime is also helpful in easing constipation, but the most beneficial element is the high acidity. An overdose of lime juice with salt also acts as an excellent purgative without any side effects, thereby providing relief from constipation.
Treats Gout – Gout is caused by the accumulation of free radicals or toxins in the body, primarily uric acid. Being a wonderful source of antioxidants and detoxifiers like Vitamin C and flavonoids, it can help reduce the number of free radicals and detoxify your body, preventing gout.
Diabetes SuperFood – According to the American Diabetes Association, limes and other citrus fruits are considered a diabetes super food for a number of reasons. Mainly, the high levels of soluble fiber found in limes make it an ideal dietary aid to help regulate the body’s absorption of sugar into the bloodstream, reducing the occurrence of blood sugar spikes that are a serious risk to to diabetic patients. Also, limes and other citrus fruits have a low glycemic index, which means that they will not cause unexpected spikes in glucose levels, in addition to the benefits of soluble fiber’s effect.
Improves Digestion – The refreshing fragrance of lime can make your mouth water even before consuming it. The acids present in this fruit facilitate smoother digestion by breaking the macro molecules of food. Flavonoids are compounds found in the fragrant oil extracted from lime. These compounds stimulate the digestive system by increasing the secretion of digestive juices, bile, and acids.
Treats Respiratory Disorders – 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. Just scratching the peel of a lime and inhaling it gives immediate relief for congestion and nausea.
Helps in Weight Loss – Lime benefits weight loss. The juice has been traditionally used in several weight reduction programs and is a great refresher and antioxidant drink. Lime juice is naturally sweet but extremely low in calories. It contains citric acid, which is an excellent fat burner. To lose weight, add 1-2 teaspoons of raw, organic honey and the juice of a fresh lime to 8 ounces of warm water. Drink it early in the morning on empty stomach to get beneficial results within a week.
Extracts of the essential oils are an integral part of many perfumes, cleaning products for the skin, soaps and deodorants, and it is used in many aroma therapies.
Via: OrganicFacts
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