Be it summer or be it winter, there is nothing more refreshing than a glass of lemonade. Lime is one of the most common fruits that are used across the world.
Limes and lemons are mostly used interchangeably but they are 2 distinct species. Limes are usually smaller than lemons with lime juice having a strong flavor and more acidic than lemon juice. But essentially they have the same nutrients.
Lime, scientifically known as Citrus Aurantifoliaa is a native fruit of southeastern Asia that was brought to Europe from India by the Arabs. It has since spread throughout the world where it is the most commonly cultivated species of the acid citrus. It is consumed in various forms like in drinks, jams, pickles, candies, snacks, sorbets etc.
The first usage of its health benefits was done by sailors who used to carry bags of them to avoid scurvy during long journeys. Here are some other benefits associated to them:
#11 – Vitamin C powerhouse
Vitamin C is extremely essential for a strong immune system. Both lemon and lime are a moderately good source of vitamin C, with lemons containing about one-third more vitamin C than limes. 100 gm of lemon (without peel) can provide 88 percent of the daily recommended value of vitamin C. A glass of warm water with lime/lemon juice and a teaspoonful of honey is an ideal remedy to keep yourself cold and cough free.
#10 – Good for stomach
Lemon/lime juice aids the digestion process hence should be had after a heavy meal. You can also add a few lemon drops on your dish to aid digestion. But, remember that lemon does not go well with milk. Having lemon juice in water is also an ideal remedy if someone is suffering from bilious vomiting, indigestion and burning. The acids in lemons/limes are also good for flushing out the toxins from the bowel tracts that keeps constipation at bay.
#9 – Helps maintain normal blood pressure
Lime juice is a good source of potassium which is important for regulating the heart rhythm and keeping the blood vessels relaxed thus reducing the risk of hypertension.
#8 – Anti Cancer properties
Citrus fruits, including lemons and limes, contain compounds called limonoids that have been shown to help fight cancers of the stomach, lungs. breast, skin and colon in animal studies and laboratory tests with human cells. Lemons and limes are a good source of a very long-acting limonoid called limonin, which can readily be absorbed and utilized by our bodies. Scientists found traces of limonin in the body even 24 hours after consumption, whereas natural anti-carcinogens present in other food items were found to be active for just 4 to 6 hours; for example, phenols in green tea.
#7 – Weight loss
You know this one and probably you have tried it as well. Yes! lemon water and honey first thing in the morning. It is an excellent fat burner as well as a brilliant refresher and antioxidant drink.
#6 – Beneficial for hair
Ever wondered why shampoo advertisements stress on the fact that their product has lemon extracts. That is because it is very effective against dandruff. Lemon juice, if applied on the scalp, can treat problems like dandruff, hair fall and other problems related to hair and scalp.
