It’s not just for margaritas, my friends! Lime essential oil is great to have in your arsenal for cleaning, cooking, and refreshing your surroundings. True to the scent of fresh-squeezed limes, this essential oil has an uplifting aroma that stimulates the senses. Add lime for a burst of flavor to guacamole, beverages, and desserts.
Lime Essential Oil
Citrus aurantifolia
Botanical Family
Rutaceae (citrus)
Common Names
- Key lime
- French lime
Historical Uses for Lime Essential Oil
Limes were used in the 19th century to prevent scurvy on long sea voyages. This was a closely guarded military secret at the time. British sailors in the Royal Navy were often called limeys (not a nice term). It was later discovered that limes did not contain enough Vitamin C to be as effective as lemons in combating the disease.
Fun Facts
- Limes were one of the earliest citrus fruits introduced to other parts of the world by migration and trade
- They are the smallest among citrus fruits but are thought to be the most versatile
- Lime peels are considerably more phototoxic than the lime pulp
Aroma and Tips for Blending
- Lime essential oil is cold-pressed from the rind
- It has a sweet, sharp, and citrusy aroma that is clean and refreshing
- It is considered a top note when blending with other oils
- Lime essential oil blends well with most citrus and floral oils. Try it with vanilla, bergamot, spearmint, stress away, or sandalwood
Top Uses for Lime
- Lime essential oil can be used for topical, aromatic, and internal applications. It is gentle and safe for most users
- Lime for internal use can be found using Young Living’s Vitality line [1] of essential oils
- Use lime to remove grease stains or sticker residue
- Mix with your favorite moisturizer to improve the appearance of the skin
- For respiratory support, add lime to steaming water and inhale the benefits
- Add to your favorite food recipe as a substitute for fresh limes
Tips for Using Lime Essential Oil
- Citrus oils like lime can cause photosensitivity so avoid direct sunlight or UV rays for up to 12 hours after applying the product. Take caution when using and spending time in the sun. Read more about photosensitive oils here [2]
- Apply this essential oil with a carrier oil [3] to help it stay on the skin longer for a more long-lasting effect
- Lime essential oil can be used as a substitute for fresh lime in a recipe, or for other citrus oils such as lemon [4], orange [5], or grapefruit [6]
- If using lime for cooking, it’s best to start out slow with a toothpick swirl and adjust as needed
Recipes with Lime Essential Oil
- Lime Vitality essential oil tastes great in recipes like this Southwest Marinade for Beef [7] or No-Bake Avocado Lime Tarts [8]. Both recipes are perfect for parties, cookouts, or any time you need a flavorful pick-me-up! You can also substitute lime for lemon in a delicious glass of Lavender Lemonade [9] for a special treat!
- You might also enjoy adding lime to your daily dose of NingXia Red. Try it in our “Thai Surprise” NingXia Red Shot [10]or a “Pep in Your Step” NingXia Red Shot Recipe [10].
- Lime is a fantastic essential oil for diffusing. One of my all-time favorites is lime and Royal Hawaiian Sandalwood like in one of these Spring Diffuser Blends [11]. It smells exactly like Key Lime pie!
- Speaking of Key Lime pie, you will not regret making these Key Lime Cupcakes [12]. These cupcakes are perfectly soft and fluffy with just the right hint of lime.
- Add lime essential oil to your water glass every morning like in this recipe for refreshing Citrus Water [13]. It’s amazingly delicious and an easy way to increase the amount of water you drink every day!
- Last but not least, lime is a key ingredient in our Homemade Lemon-Lime Guacamole [14]. You can’t make guacamole without lime, and lime essential oil gives it just the right amount of tang.
BUY LIME HERE [15]
Find all of our recipes using Lime essential oil by clicking here [16].
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