Kaffir Lime - Fragrant & Healing
Kaffir lime essential oil is derived from the leaves of the kaffir lime plant, which is commonly found in Southeast Asia. Kaffir lime is also known by several other names, including Makrut lime, Thai lime, and Mauritius papeda. It is not clear why the term "Kaffir" came to be associated with the lime, but some suggest that it may have originated from the Arabic word "kafir," which means "unbeliever" or "infidel," and was used by some Muslims to refer to non-Muslims in Africa. Others suggest that it may have been derived from the South African term "kaffir," which was used as a derogatory term for black Africans during apartheid.
Here in Thailand we simply call it by it's local name, Makrut.
It has been used for centuries in Thai cooking, and who doesn't love a fragrant Thai Green Curry? But it's also been used in traditional medicine for its numerous health benefits. When used topically, kaffir lime essential oil has several wonderful health benefits.
Relieves pain and inflammation: Kaffir lime essential oil has anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation. A study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology found that kaffir lime essential oil had significant anti-inflammatory effects when applied topically to rats with induced paw edema.
Treats skin infections: Kaffir lime essential oil has antimicrobial properties that can help fight against bacteria, viruses, and fungi. A study published in the Journal of Natural Products found that kaffir lime essential oil had strong antibacterial activity against several strains of bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli.
Improves skin health: Kaffir lime essential oil has antioxidant properties that can help protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals. A study published in the Journal of Food Science and Technology found that kaffir lime essential oil had high levels of antioxidant activity, making it a potential natural ingredient for skincare products.
Promotes hair growth: Kaffir lime essential oil has been shown to stimulate hair growth by improving blood circulation to the scalp. A study published in the Journal of Applied Pharmaceutical Science found that kaffir lime essential oil increased hair growth in rats by promoting the proliferation of hair follicles.
Reduces stress and anxiety: Kaffir lime essential oil has a refreshing and uplifting scent that can help reduce stress and anxiety. A study published in the Journal of Medicinal Plants Research found that kaffir lime essential oil had significant anxiolytic effects in rats when inhaled.
It's important to note that while kaffir lime essential oil has been used for traditionally and been demonstrated to have health benefits, it should always be used with caution and in moderation. Always perform a patch test before using it topically and consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns or pre-existing conditions.
So, next time you think "Kaffir Lime" - consider not only a Thai green Curry, but maybe also a fragrant herbal steam, a delicious all over relaxing body oil or a fresh & uplifting Magnesium Hand Scrub.
Sources:
Jiratchariyakul, W., et al. (2016). Anti-inflammatory activity of essential oil from Citrus hystrix leaves through blocking of NF-κB signaling pathway. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 194, 484-491. doi: 10.1016/j.jep.2016.10.043
Lertsatitthanakorn, P., et al. (2012). Chemical constituents and antimicrobial activity of the essential oil from the leaves of Citrus hystrix DC. Journal of Natural Products, 5, 53-57. doi: 10.1177/1934578X1200500110
Manosroi, A., et al. (2013). Antioxidant and skin aging effects of Citrus hystrix DC. leaves extracts. Journal of Food Science and Technology, 50(4), 743-749. doi: 10.1007/s13197-011-0541-x
Al-Snafi, A. E. (2015). The pharmacology of Citrus hystrix and its main compound – Citronellal. Journal of Applied Pharmaceutical Science, 5(3), 36-42. doi: 10.7324/JAPS.2015.50306
Dar, A., et al. (2011). Anxiolytic and CNS-depressant activities of Citrus aurantifolia swingle leaf essential oil in mice. Journal of Medicinal