The art of aromatherapy has been around for thousands of years. As products continue to blossom on retail shelves, you may have become familiar with the aromatherapy properties of popular essential oils such as lavender, tea tree oil, and chamomile. Another intriguing component to add to your knowledge base is lime.
Although this versatile fruit is commonly used as a beverage or as a splash in iced tea, its benefits are far-reaching. The rich history of the lime dates back to the 16th century, when Spanish and Portuguese explorers brought it to America. This little fruit with the light, sweet, and rich fragrance is part of the Rutaceae family of essential oils, which include lemon, grapefruit, tangerine, and bergamot. Lime oil, gained from the peel by a process called cold pressure, has traditionally been used to soothe indigestion, heartburn, and nausea.
Like all essential oils, lime oil has both physical and emotional uses. Thanks to its antidepressant properties, it invigorates the body and mind when inhaled, helping to relieve feelings of anxiety and melancholy.
One of the best ways to experience this property is in the tub. You?ll find commercial bath products that contain lime oil, or you can purchase essential lime oil at a natural foods store and place six drops in a hot bath. Just be sure that the oil is mixed thoroughly into the water, because if it floats on the top it can cause irritation to sensitive skin. A simple way to ensure that it is properly diluted is to swish your bath brush around the water prior to entering the tub. Then place a Do Not Disturb sign on the bathroom door and soak luxuriously for fifteen minutes.
Because lime oil is also reputed to encourage circulation, it is often used to relieve varicose veins. Massage is suggested to ease this ailment, so ask your massage therapist to slip a couple of drops of lime oil into her massage oil and direct her to your trouble spots.
Thanks to its anti-rheumatic properties, lime is a great essential oil to have on hand for the aches and pain of arthritis. Simply add a few drops to a bowl of hot water, soak a clean washcloth in the brew, wring out the excess, and apply to wherever it hurts.
For chest congestion, sinusitis, and catarrh, an inhalation of lime is suggested. Add two or three drops to a bowl of steaming water, place your face directory over the bowl, and cover your head with a towel. Breathe in the steam for a couple of minutes, rest for a minute, and repeat. Clearing should be felt within a few minutes.
The versatile lime has many healing properties that have been employed for centuries. Just remember that lime, as well as any other essential oil, should be used carefully. If at any time you feel discomfort, pain, or sickness of any kind, discontinue use immediately and consult a physician.
Jennifer Urezzio of Blooming Grove Herbal Remedies works one on one with clients to develop a strategy to create a more peaceful existence. Devices that she teaches to clients include how to set up a tranquil home or office environment, working with essential oils to remove emotional blocks or trauma and mediation techniques. Ms. Urezzio also believes that a bit of self-indulgence should be incorporated into daily life so she created an all natural bath and body product line. More information about the product line and custom beauty and balance programs can be found at www.bloominggrove.net | |
