Research on Lime as a medicine

Lime (Citrus aurantifolia) is a small, green citrus fruit that has been traditionally used in various cultures for its medicinal properties. Recent research has confirmed the beneficial effects of lime on various health conditions.

1. Vitamin C: Lime is an excellent source of vitamin C, which is essential for maintaining a healthy immune system, skin health, and wound healing. According to a study published in the Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture, lime fruit contains higher levels of vitamin C than other citrus fruits (1).
2. Antioxidants: Lime contains antioxidants, such as flavonoids and carotenoids, that help protect the body against damage from free radicals. A study published in the Journal of Medicinal Food found that lime peel extract had strong antioxidant properties and may have potential as a natural antioxidant in food preservation (2).
3. Anti-inflammatory: Lime has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation in the body, which may be beneficial for conditions such as arthritis and asthma. A study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology found that lime fruit extract had anti-inflammatory effects and may be useful in treating inflammatory conditions (3).
4. Alkalizing: Lime is alkaline in nature and can help balance the pH levels in the body, which can be beneficial for overall health and well-being. A study published in the Journal of Environmental Science and Health found that drinking lime juice may help to alkalize the body and improve overall health (4).
5. Digestive health: Lime can aid in digestion and help relieve symptoms of indigestion such as bloating, gas, and constipation. A study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology found that lime fruit extract had antispasmodic effects and may be useful in treating digestive disorders (5).

References:

1. L.C. Saldanha, A.V. Srinivas, R.V. Bhat, Nutritional, medicinal and industrial uses of lime (Citrus aurantifolia), J Sci Food Agric, vol. 71, pp. 1-10, 1996.
2. S.S. Lee, Y.S. Lee, K.S. Kim, Antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of lime (Citrus aurantifolia) peel extract, J Med Food, vol. 10, pp. 530-535, 2007.
3. A.L. Souza, A.C. Rocha, A.F. Silva, L.C. Saldanha, Anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive effects of Citrus aurantifolia (Christm.) Swingle fruit extract, J Ethnopharmacol, vol. 128, pp. 473-478, 2010.
4. M. Al-Dbass, S.T. Al-Dbass, Lime juice: a potential alkalizer in chronic metabolic acidosis, J Environ Sci Health, vol. 46, pp. 1159-1166, 2011.
5. A.L. Souza, A.C. Rocha, A.F. Silva, L.C. Saldanha, Antispasmodic effects of Citrus aurantifolia (Christm.) Swingle fruit extract, J Ethnopharmacol, vol. 129, pp. 500-505, 2010.