38 Benefits Of Lime For Skin, Hair, And Health + Nutrition

Citrus fruits are known for their high vitamin C content and immune-boosting properties. These add up when we look at the various ways lime benefits us as well. Lime is one of the most versatile citrus fruits, that can not only be eaten raw as a fruit and its juice, but can also be added to various salads, dressings, soups, cakes, cookies, candies, popsicles, sorbets, and cocktails as a flavor! Lime is usually green when raw, and turns yellow when ripened. And while there are various varieties of lime found locally across different regions of the world, their nutrient compositions and benefits essentially remain the same. Lime is majorly used for its culinary uses, given its refreshing zingy taste and aroma. However, there’s more to the humble lime. The oil extracted from the lime peel is used in various skincare and haircare products such as toothpaste, mouthwash, deodorants, hair cleansers, and body washes as well. This is just to give you a snapshot of the various benefits of lime. To learn more about lime, keep reading this article.

Know Your Ingredient: Lime Juice

What Is It?
Juice made up of fresh and ripe lemons with a sour, zingy flavor.

What Are Its Benefits?
Improves skin health, promotes hair growth, aids digestion, and much more.

Who Can Consume It?
Anyone can consume it except people suffering from gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) should avoid consumption of lemon juice.

How Often?
It is best to consume it in moderation everyday, as it is loaded with essential nutrients for optimal health.

Caution
Avoid excessive intake as it might lead to enamel erosion.

Lime Nutrition Facts

If we were to talk about the nutritional value of lime juice, 31 g of lime juice contains 28 g of water and 8 calories. It is cholesterol-free. 1 oz of lime juice contains 2.5g of carbohydrates and less than 1 g fat, protein, and fiber. It has only 1 mg of sodium.

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.

Eva De Angelis, a dietitian, says, “Lime contains very little thiamin; one lime has about 2% of the daily value.”

A survey determined the serum vitamin C status of the adult US population in the year 2017-18. Analysis showed that non-Hispanic Asian people had a lower prevalence of vitamin C deficiency by 4.7% compared to non-Hispanic white people. The study also showed that those with a high income had a lower prevalence rate of 5.2% compared to those with low incomes. It also showed that a vitamin C deficiency was observed in those with low dietary intake and smokers.

Skin Benefits Of Lime

Citrus fruits are known for their beneficial effects on the skin and lime is no exception. Lime juice, whether taken orally or applied topically, benefits your skin in several ways. Being rich in powerful antioxidants like Vitamin C, citric acid, and flavonoids, lime provides the following benefits to your skin:

1. Treats Dark Spots

Lime juice is considered as a natural bleaching agent due to its skin lightening properties.

It can be used to lighten dark spots. All you need to do is apply it with a cotton ball to the darkened portions of your skin and leave it for 30 minutes. However, ensure that you stay indoors and avoid direct exposure to sunlight this remedy can make your skin sensitive to sunlight. Also, it is advisable to apply sunscreen before venturing out. You can also use this remedy to lighten dark underarms (1).

Doro Cubillo, a beauty and lifestyle YouTuber, talks about how you should not use lime juice without diluting it. She says, “Don’t make the mistake I did when I started using lemon juice on my face. I just grabbed the juice straight and I put it right on my face (i).” She further adds that the juice irritated her skin and recommends only using it after diluting it with equal amounts of water.

2. Treats Acne And Blemishes

Is lime good for acne? Acne, pimples, and blemishes are caused when dirt, oil and dead skin cells clog your pores. Acne and pimples are common problems for people with oily skin. The bacteria present in facial pores aggravate the inflammation, increasing redness and soreness (2). The antibiotic properties of lime juice inhibit the growth of the acne causing bacteria. To keep acne and pimples at bay, you can prepare a face pack of lime juice with honey. While honey possesses antibacterial properties that prevent the growth of bacteria, the acidic nature of lime juice will control excess oil. This face pack should be used every week as part of your skincare regimen. The scars left by pimples can be lightened by massaging some fresh lime juice on them.

3. Anti-Aging Properties

With the progression of age and the exposure to UV rays, melanin that imparts color to your skin, can build up and get accumulated in your skin, giving rise to dark spots and other signs of aging. The peel of lime inhibits melanin production. Scrubbing your skin with lime peel or applying facial mask containing bits of lime peel can significantly reduce hyperpigmentationⁱ  A common, generally harmless condition where certain skin regions develop darker patches than the surrounding area. (3). Lime also contains Vitamin C, which promotes collagen synthesis and minimizes signs of aging. You may also drink freshly squeezed lime juice with warm water to stay hydrated and maintain your skin health.

4. Treats Skin Tan

Excessive sun exposure can tan your skin. Lime juice can be used to remove this tan effectively (4). All you need to do is prepare a face pack by mixing some gram flour (besan) with curd (dahi) and add some lime juice to this mixture. Apply this paste evenly on your skin and allow it to dry. Now wash your face with water and dry it. This face pack should be applied weekly for better results.

5. Treats Open Pores

Astringents are effective in causing temporary tightening of muscles. That is the reason why they are often used in beauty and skincare products for improving the appearance of your facial skin. Lime oil possesses astringent properties (5) and can be used to tighten pores and temporarily reduce oil production to provide a brighter and flawless complexion.

6. Removal Of Dead Skin

The citric acid present in lime peels can slough off dead skin cells (6). Similarly, lemon peel benefits include their ability to exfoliate and rejuvenate the skin. They are often used in beauty treatments in spas as well as home remedies to improve the health and appearance of facial skin.

7. Lime For Glowing Skin

For a glowing complexion, all you need to do is have a glass of lukewarm water with some honey and freshly squeezed lime juice early in the morning regularly. This will provide an inner glow to your skin.

8. Other Benefits

Lime helps rejuvenate your skin and protects it from infections, thanks to its antioxidant, disinfectant and antibiotic properties. The presence of a large amount of Vitamin C and flavonoids in lime juice helps reduce the body odor and sweat. For this purpose, you can mix some lime juice in your bath water to get a rejuvenating bath experience. When applied externally on your skin, it helps treat bruises and rashes. Incorporating lime into your skincare routine highlights the broader benefits of citrus fruits for skin health.

Hair Benefits Of Lime

If you thought that the benefits of lime end here, you need to take a look at its benefits for your hair. Besides being effective in skincare, lime peels and lime juice play an important role in hair health as well. The benefits of lime juice for your hair are as follows:

9. Treats Dandruff

Dandruff

is, undoubtedly, one of the most common hair problems. It is a condition characterized by excess flaking of the scalp. Lime juice is often used as an ingredient in anti-dandruff shampoos. Citric acid present in lime juice has been found to be very effective and beneficial in dealing with dandruff issues. To get rid of dandruff, rub lime slices directly on the scalp. Rinsing the hair with lime juice added to water also helps in removing dandruff. Lime juice can sometimes dry your scalp. In such a case, you can combine it with olive oil, coconut oil or almond oil.

10. Treats Hair

Oily hair is caused due to the secretion of excess oil called sebum by the sebaceous glands, giving your hair a sticky, oily and dull appearance. Lime juice, with its oil absorbing property, rids your scalp of all the excess oil. Rubbing a slice of lime on the scalp for few minutes before rinsing can also help in removing the excess oil from your scalp and hair. Alternatively, you can add 1-2 tablespoons of lime juice in water and rinse your hair with it to remove excess oil.

11. Promotes Hair Growth

Lime juice is beneficial in promoting hair growth. It has been used to treat baldness, hair thinning and hair loss problems for ages now. The main nutrient that promotes hair growth is Vitamin C, which is present in limes in large amounts. The addition of lime juice to various oils and its application promotes hair growth.

12. Lime For Shiny Hair

Shiny hair is loved and desired by all. Lime juice can impart that much desired shine to your hair. The application of lime juice along with honey and olive oil mixture before washing your hair can provide you with shiny sparkling hairs. Lime juice is also incorporated in shampoos along with other essential ingredients for providing you with silky smooth and shining hair.

13. Lightens Hair Color

As stated earlier, lime juice possesses natural lightening properties. If you want your hair color to be lightened without the use of chemicals, lime juice is a great option. All you need to do is apply lime juice on your hair and sit in the sun for an hour or expose your hair to sunlight. Then, rinse your hair. This procedure will make your hair 2-3 shades lighter in color.

Health 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.

14. Treats Scurvy

Scurvy is a disease caused due to the deficiency of Vitamin C. It is characterized by frequent infections in the form of cold, ulcers on the tongue and mouth, cracked lips and lip corners, spongy, swollen and bleeding gums etc. Being packed with Vitamin C, lime is extremely effective in curing scurvy. This has been a popular cure since the nineteenth century when the British used to have lime juice to ward off scurvy. Even today, limes are given to workers working in hazardous environments like cement factories, painting shops, mines, furnaces and other dangerous work to prevent the outbreak of scurvy.

Trivia

In a fine example of how to use lime to treat infections, British sailors earned the moniker ‘limey’ as they were given a daily allowance of lime to prevent scurvy.

15. Gum Care

The deficiency of Vitamin C can also lead to gum problems. As stated above, scurvy can cause bleeding and spongy gums. Often, ulcers and microbial growth are caused due to physical trauma. Limes contain flavonoids that inhibit microbial growth and, along with potassium, facilitate the healing of ulcers and wounds. However, lime juice is acidic, and consuming too much lime (lime juice or lime-infused water) can weaken the enamel and cause erosion.

16. Eye Care

The antioxidant and antibacterial properties of limes are beneficial for your eyes. The antioxidant property of Vitamin C protects your eyes from aging and macular degenerationⁱ  An eye disorder where a part of the retina is affected, impairing central vision and making it difficult to perform daily duties. while the flavonoids prevent infections.

17. 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 and improve your joint health.

18. 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, lime can help reduce the number of free radicals and detoxify your body, preventing gout. You may add a few drops of lime juice to green tea and drink it to reduce the symptoms of gout. Lime juice has anti-inflammatory properties and may help the kidneys to flush out excess uric acid.

19. Treats Piles

Piles

can be defined as an uncomfortable condition that occurs in the anal region, causing bleeding and discomfort during excretion and general activity. When left uncured, piles can even lead to certain forms of cancer. Limes can help heal ulcers and wounds in the digestive and excretory systems, thus providing relief from constipation, which is the root cause of piles.

20. Treatment Of Fever

Lime and lime juice possess natural fever reducing qualities. In case of high to moderate fever, the patient should be given lime juice and water along with other fruit juices to bring down the temperature to manageable levels. The high concentrations of Vitamin C in citrus fruits help lower the temperature naturally.

21. Treatment Of Common Cold

The high amount of vitamin C in limes not only treats common cold but also increases the resistance of the body towards common cold. You may soak turmeric and basil leaves in a glass of water overnight. In the morning, warm it, add a few drops of fresh lime juice, and drink. This can give you an immunity boost and keep the common cold at bay.

22. Aids 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. Consuming lime juice with your food or eating pickled lime with your lunch or dinner may boost your digestion.

23. Treats Dehydration

Lime juice is a refreshing drink that provides quick hydration and rejuvenation, besides being rich in Vitamin C. It also helps to reduce fatigue and vomiting bouts.

The intake of lime juice helps promote water consumption. Dietitian Eva De Angelis says, “Our bodies are made up of roughly 60% water, and we all know that water is necessary for life. However, many people do not drink enough water because it is too plain in flavor or because they prefer other drinks, such as sodas or juices. The issue is that these beverages also contain empty calories. Adding lime juice or lime wedges to water is a great way to add flavor to it, and it can also be a good strategy for some people to increase their water intake.”

24. Treats Cystitis

Cystitis, also known as urinary tract infection, is an inflammation of the urinary bladder caused due to lack of hygiene or allergic reaction to drugs or radiation therapy. Limes have a high content of potassium, which helps in detoxification by eliminating the toxic substances and precipitates that get accumulated in the kidneys and the urinary bladder. Limes also possess disinfectant properties that can help cure infections in the urinary system. Besides, they prevent prostate growth and prevent blockage of urine caused by calcium deposits in the urinary tract. In case of urinary tract infection, lime juice boiled in water should be taken every couple of hours to get relief.

25. Treats Peptic Ulcers

Peptic ulcers generally develop in the inner lining of your stomach, esophagus and upper small intestines, leading to a lot of abdominal pain. The acids in lime help reduce gastric acidity by causing an alkaline reaction in the digestive system. Besides Vitamin C, limes contain flavonoids, such as limonoids like Limonin Glucoside that possess antioxidant, antibiotic, anti-carcinogenic and detoxifying properties that facilitate the quick healing of peptic and oral ulcers.

26. Beneficial For The Heart

Limes are rich in soluble fiber that can lower blood pressure level as well as LDL or ‘bad’ cholesterol. This soluble fiber also cures the inflammation of the blood vessels, providing protection against heart attack, strokes, and heart disease , and improving overall heart health.

27. Lowers Cholesterol

Limes contain a flavonoid called hesperidin, which has been shown to lower the cholesterol and triglyceride levels in the body. If you are suffering from increased cholesterol levels, it is advisable to boost your hesperidin levels by consuming more limes.

28. Aids Weight Loss

Lime benefits weight loss. Lime 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. You may also drink lime-mint-ginger-cucumber-infused water throughout the day to boost metabolism and promote weight loss.

29. Good For Women’s Health

This citrus fruit contains calcium and folate, two vital nutrients for post-menopausal women as well as those in the child-bearing age. One fresh medium sized lime contains 22 milligrams calcium and five micrograms folate. Women in these phases should make lime a part their diet to get some relief.

30. Treats Respiratory Disorders

The flavonoid-rich oil contained in lime extracts is used as an ingredient in anti-congestive medicines like vaporizers, balms, and inhalers due to the presence of kaempferol, which helps treat respiratory health issues. Scratching the peel of a lime and inhaling it provides relief from congestion and nausea.

31. Prevents Formation Of Kidney Stones

Whether taken in the fresh or in the concentrate form, lime juice contains more citric acid than orange or grapefruit juice. Citric acid naturally inhibits kidney stones made of crystallized calcium. It is advisable to use fresh lime juice squeezed into water instead of commercial juices to get maximum benefits.

32. Beneficial For Diabetics

According to the American Diabetes Association, citrus fruits like lime are beneficial for diabetics due to several reasons. Firstly, the high levels of soluble fiber in limes help in blood sugar regulation and its absorption in the bloodstream. This prevents the occurrence of a blood sugar spike, which is risky for diabetic patients. Secondly, like most citrus fruits, limes have a low glycemic index. They do not cause unexpected spikes in the glucose levels, thus adding to the benefits for diabetic patients.

33. Prevents Cholera

Though now eradicated in many parts of the world, cholera continues to be a fatal disease in some places. Fortunately, limes and other citrus fruits can help prevent the occurrence of cholera. Lime juice, when added to potentially infected water, can prove to be an effective disinfectant. This juice, when consumed regularly by the patient who has been exposed to cholera-infected water, can reduce the ill effects of this deadly disease.

 34. Anti-Cancer Properties

The limonoid compounds present in limes have been shown to possess anti-carcinogenic properties that help prevent cancers of the colon, blood and stomach. Though the exact effect is yet to be known, scientists have observed through research that the antioxidant limonoids can cause the death of cancer cells. Besides, they stay active in your blood cells for longer and can fight more free radicals than green tea or dark chocolate.

Eva De Angelis, a dietitian, says, “People with lung cancer are more likely to become dehydrated, which can exacerbate treatment-related side effects, such as nausea, dry mouth, and constipation. The problem with water and lung cancer is that people undergoing lung cancer treatment may find that plain water tastes unpleasant or bitter. Lime juice or slices, as well as lemon or orange slices, can help to balance out the bitterness. Citrus juices, such as lime juice, can thus be a potential resource for lowering cancer risk.”

35. Antiviral Properties

Lime helps to fight and protect against viral infections that cause common cold, mumps, measles, pox and other similar diseases. It is effective in curing throat, mouth, stomach, intestines, colon, and urinary infections. It is also an effective cure for infections of the respiratory system, such as coughs and chest congestion, bronchitisⁱ  Inflammation of the bronchial tube lining, frequently brought on by a viral infection, causing coughing and congestion. , sinusitisⁱ  Inflammation in the sinuses, usually brought on by a cold or allergies, causing them to become congested with fluid. , and asthma. Drinking a cup of lime-basil tea may help fight viral infections and boost immunity.

36. Works As An Antiseptic

Lime contains antiseptic properties and is used to cure infections of the skin and external wounds, like insect bites and cuts. It is also effective in curing sores, gangreneⁱ  Death of cells and tissue caused by severe infection or a lack of blood supply, which usually affects the body's extremities. , ulcers, rashes, carbunclesⁱ  A group of connected, inflamed, under-the-skin boils that develop when one or more hair follicles become infected. and other similar problems. When consumed, it can cure infection in the colon, urinary tract, and kidneys.

37. Bactericidal Properties

Lime in oral form can be used in the treatment of illnesses caused by bacteria, such as, diarrhea, food poisoning, cholera, and typhoid. As mentioned previously, it also is an effective cure for bacterial infections of the intestines, colon, stomach, and the urinary tract.

38. As An Astringent

Because of its astringent properties, lime helps in curing toothaches and strengthens gums. It also tightens loose muscles. It is extremely beneficial to those who are recovering from injury, and is helpful in relieving pain in muscles and joints.

Trivia

China (310 million metric tonnes), the United States (17 million metric tonnes), and India (16 million metric tonnes) were the top lime-producing nations in 2021.

How To Make Lime Water

Ingredients

• 1 fresh lime
• 1 glass of water
• ½ teaspoon of honey or a pinch of salt (optional)

How To Prepare

1. Wash the lime and cut it. Use a citrus juicer or your hands to squeeze the juice and remove any seeds that might fall.
2. Fill a glass of water and add the lime juice to it. Adjust the quantity according to your preference for the strength of the lime flavor.
3. Stir the lime water to combine the flavors evenly.
4. Add honey or a pinch of salt to enhance the taste.
5. You can also add ice cubes and garnish with a lime slice if desired.

This beverage is a great way to stay hydrated while enjoying the tangy goodness of lime. There are other ways of enjoying lime. Learn more about them below.

Practical Uses Of Lime

Lime is a versatile fruit with numerous practical applications in cooking and beyond. Here are some ways to incorporate lime into your daily diet:

• Add a tangy twist to your salads by squeezing fresh lime juice over them.
• Lime juice can be used to create flavorful marinades for meat, poultry, and seafood.
• Lime juice is a refreshing addition to water, sparkling water, and cocktails.
• Lime juice can be used in baking to enhance the flavors of cakes, cookies, and other desserts.

You can enjoy lime’s refreshing taste and numerous health benefits by incorporating lime into your daily diet. However, make sure you do not overdo it or else you might face certain adverse effects. Discover them below.

Side Effects Of Lime

While lime offers numerous health benefits, excessive consumption can lead to potential side effects.

• The acidic nature of lime juice can erode tooth enamel over time.
• Additionally, having a lot of lime juice can irritate your gut.
• While rare, some individuals may have allergies to citrus fruits, including limes.
• If you experience symptoms such as hives, swelling, or difficulty breathing after consuming lime, seek medical attention.

Hence, It is important to consume lime in moderation and consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns.

Infographic: Benefits Of Lime

Limes are nutritional powerhouses. They are high in vitamin C, antioxidants, and other essential nutrients. The intake of lime fruit or juice may help treat many ailments. The presence of polyphenols and flavonoids in this fruit may promote weight loss, treat scurvy, aid digestion, regulate blood sugar levels, act against signs of aging, and fight dandruff. Click on the infographic below to learn more about lime juice benefits for your skin, hair, and health and its nutritional breakdown.

Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it OK to drink lime water every day?

Yes, it is safe to consume lime water daily. Its vitamin C helps fight infections, strengthens the immune system, and promotes skin health.

Is a lime better than a lemon?

Lemons are a better source of vitamin C compared to limes. In addition, lemon is rich in various vitamins, potassium, and folate that promote overall health. However, both these can contribute to improving health.

Does lime burn belly fat?

The citric acid in lime reduces fat deposition by regulating fat metabolism. Intake of lime coupled with moderate exercise may help in burning belly fat.

How many limes is it safe to take in a day?

Consuming 1 lime a day is generally considered safe.

Is it good to drink lime water at night?

Yes, it is generally considered safe to drink lime water at night. However, having it in the morning helps reap the maximum benefits.

Illustration: Benefits Of Lime For Skin Hair And Health + Nutrition

Image: Stable Diffusion/StyleCraze Design Team

Discover the incredible health benefits of lime. From boosting immunity to aiding digestion, click on this video to uncover the wonders of this zesty citrus fruit.

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Reviewer Expert Author Editor Fact Checker

Silky MahajanMSc, CSN, CDE

   

Silky has been practicing nutrition for more than 14 years and is an active member of the Indian Dietetics Association (IDA). She has a masters degree in nutrition and dietetics and is a Certified Sports Nutritionist and Certified Diabetes Educator.

Read full bio of Silky Mahajan

• 
  Eva De AngelisRDN Eva De Angelis is a Dietitian Nutrionist from Argentina. She specializes in food and nutrition education, and healthy cooking. She has a Bachelor’s degree in Human Nutrition and Dietetics from ISalud University, a postgraduate certificate in Nutrition, Gastronomy, and Health, a culinary diploma, and an intermediate-level technical degree in Food Science.
  
  Eva De Angelis is a Dietitian Nutrionist from Argentina. She specializes in food and nutrition education, and healthy cooking. She has a Bachelor’s degree in Human Nutrition and Dietetics from ISalud University, a postgraduate certificate in Nutrition, Gastronomy, and Health, a culinary diploma, and an intermediate-level technical degree in Food Science.

Tanya ChoudharyHealth & Wellness Writer

 

Tanya is an ISSA certified Specialist in Fitness & Nutrition. She specializes in writing articles on ingredients that benefit skin, hair, and health. She believes in the right health and lifestyle practices and strives to promote the same to everyone around her.

Read full bio of Tanya Choudhary

Ravi Teja TadimallaCo-Editor-in-Chief

Ravi Teja Tadimalla is a Co-Editor-in-Chief and a published author. He has been in the digital media field for over a decade. He graduated from SRM University, Chennai, and has a Professional Certificate in Food, Nutrition & Research from Wageningen University.

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Moksha GandhiHealth & Wellness Writer

Moksha is a health and wellness writer and a certified diet and nutrition coach. Her passion for science and writing has helped her excel in crafting evidence-based articles. Her previous experience in writing science-based research papers ensures that her articles are grounded in research and provide practical tips that are reader-focused.

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