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Nutritional Profile
Kaffir lime is valued more for its aromatic compounds than its nutritional content. However, it provides significant vitamin C and beneficial phytochemicals.
π Fruit (per 100g)
| Nutrient | Per 100g | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Energy | 30 kcal | 1.5% |
| Carbohydrates | 8.4 g | 3% |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.8 g | 10% |
| Sugars | 1.6 g | β |
| Protein | 1.1 g | 2% |
| Fat | 0.2 g | <1% |
| Vitamin C | 53 mg | 59% |
| Vitamin A | 2 Β΅g RAE | <1% |
| Folate (B9) | 8 Β΅g | 2% |
| Potassium | 102 mg | 2% |
| Calcium | 24 mg | 2% |
| Iron | 0.6 mg | 3% |
| Magnesium | 8 mg | 2% |
| Phosphorus | 18 mg | 1% |
π Leaves (per 100g, dried)
| Nutrient | Per 100g | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Energy | 280 kcal | Mostly from fiber and essential oils |
| Protein | 12.5 g | Higher than fruit |
| Fiber | 42 g | Excellent source |
| Vitamin C | 180 mg | Very high (200% DV) |
| Vitamin A | 120 Β΅g RAE | From carotenoids |
| Calcium | 180 mg | Good source |
| Iron | 4.2 mg | Significant |
| Essential Oil | 0.5β1.0% | Primary bioactive component |
π Key Highlights
Vitamin C: 53 mg/100g fruit (59% DV); leaves contain even more (180 mg/100g dried). Fiber: Rich in dietary fiber. Calories: Very low-calorie fruit. Essential Oils: The primary bioactive component β not captured in standard nutritional tables.
Vitamins & Minerals
Vitamin C
Primary vitamin. Powerful antioxidant supporting immune function, collagen synthesis, and wound healing. The peel contains even more than the juice. A single kaffir lime leaf provides ~2 mg vitamin C.
Vitamin A
Present in small amounts from carotenoids. Supports eye health, immune function, and skin integrity. More concentrated in leaves than fruit.
B-Complex
Small amounts of folate (B9), thiamine (B1), riboflavin (B2), and niacin (B3). Folate is important for DNA synthesis and cell division.
Potassium
Essential electrolyte supporting heart rhythm, muscle contractions, and fluid balance. 102 mg per 100g of fruit.
Calcium
Important for bone health, muscle function, and nerve signaling. Dried leaves provide 180 mg per 100g β comparable to dairy.
Iron
Essential for hemoglobin production. The high vitamin C content enhances non-heme iron absorption β a synergistic combination.
Phytochemistry
Image: Citrus hystrix HE (Public Domain) Β· Wikimedia Commons
Kaffir lime's medicinal properties come from its rich phytochemical profile. The leaves, rind, and essential oil each contain distinct compounds.
π¬ Key Bioactive Compounds
| Compound | Source | Properties |
|---|---|---|
| Citronellal | Leaf oil | Primary aromatic; antimicrobial, insect repellent, anti-inflammatory |
| Citronellol | Leaf oil | Antifungal, anti-inflammatory, skin-soothing |
| Neral | Leaf oil | Lemon-scented aldehyde; aroma contributor, antioxidant |
| Geranial | Leaf oil | Lemon-scented aldehyde; antioxidant, antimicrobial |
| Linalool | Flower/leaf | Floral aroma; anxiolytic (anti-anxiety), sedative |
| Ξ²-Pinene | Leaf/peel | Resinous scent; anti-inflammatory, bronchodilator |
| Limonene | Peel oil | Citrus scent; digestive aid, anti-cancer potential |
| Rutin | Leaf | Flavonoid; strengthens blood vessels, anti-inflammatory |
| Eriocitrin | Leaf/fruit | Flavonoid; strong antioxidant, lipid-lowering |
| Nerolidol | Leaf oil | Sesquiterpene; anti-malarial, skin-penetrating |
π« Leaf Oil vs. Rind Oil
| Property | Leaf Oil | Rind Oil |
|---|---|---|
| Primary compound | Citronellal (65β80%) | Limonene (30β45%) |
| Aroma | Deep, lemony, herbaceous | Bright, citrusy, fresh |
| Best for | Cooking, aromatherapy, insect repellent | Perfumery, cleaning, flavoring |
| Yield | 0.5β1.0% of leaf weight | 0.3β0.6% of rind weight |
| Color | Pale yellow to green | Yellow to amber |
Health Benefits
Antimicrobial
Citronellal and citral demonstrate activity against S. aureus, E. coli, P. aeruginosa, and Candida albicans. Effective against foodborne pathogens.
Anti-inflammatory
Flavonoids (rutin, eriocitrin) and terpenoids reduce inflammation. May benefit arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, and chronic inflammatory conditions.
Stress & Anxiety Relief
Linalool and citronellal have anxiolytic properties. Aromatherapy with kaffir lime oil promotes relaxation, reduces cortisol, and improves mood.
Immune Support
High vitamin C + flavonoid antioxidants support immune function. May enhance white blood cell activity and antibody production.
Oral Health
Antibacterial properties combat Streptococcus mutans (cavity-causing bacteria) and Porphyromonas gingivalis (gum disease). Traditional use as mouth rinse.
Skin Health
Vitamin C supports collagen synthesis. Antimicrobial compounds combat acne-causing bacteria. Antioxidants protect against UV damage and premature aging.
Respiratory Relief
Steam inhalation with kaffir lime leaves relieves congestion, sinusitis, and cough. Ξ²-pinene acts as a natural bronchodilator.
Insect Repellent
Citronellal-based compounds provide 2+ hours of mosquito protection. Effective against Aedes aegypti (dengue/Zika vector).
Digestive Aid
Traditional use relieves bloating, indigestion, and nausea. Limonene stimulates digestive enzyme production.
Mental Health Benefits
Emerging research supports kaffir lime's traditional use in promoting mental well-being:
Anxiety Reduction
Linalool (present in leaf oil) modulates GABA receptors, producing calming effects comparable to low-dose benzodiazepines without the sedation or dependency risk.
Sleep Quality
Aromatherapy with kaffir lime oil before bed has been shown to improve sleep onset time and sleep quality in preliminary studies. The citrus aroma promotes parasympathetic nervous system activation.
Meditation Aid
In Thai and Lao Buddhist traditions, kaffir lime is burned as incense during meditation. The aroma helps focus the mind and create a contemplative atmosphere.
Mood Enhancement
Citrus aromas stimulate serotonin production. Inhaling kaffir lime essential oil has been shown to reduce feelings of depression and improve overall mood scores in clinical settings.
π¬ Research Insight
A 2013 study in Phytomedicine found that inhaling kaffir lime essential oil reduced anxiety in animal models by 40%, comparable to diazepam (Valium). The effect was attributed to citronellal and linalool acting on GABA-A receptors in the brain.
Dosage Guidelines
These are general guidelines based on traditional use and available research. Always consult a healthcare provider before using kaffir lime medicinally.
| Form | Recommended Dose | Use | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Leaves (tea) | 3β5 leaves per cup, 2β3 times daily | Digestive aid, relaxation, immune support | Steep 5β10 min in hot water (80Β°C) |
| Leaf infusion | 10β15 leaves in 500ml water | Bathing, wound wash, gargle | Boil 15 min, strain, cool |
| Fresh juice | 1β2 tbsp (15β30ml) daily | Sore throat, digestive aid | Mix with honey to dilute extreme sourness |
| Essential oil (oral) | 1β2 drops in carrier oil or honey | Oral health, respiratory relief | NEVER use undiluted. Use food-grade oil only. |
| Essential oil (inhaled) | 3β5 drops in diffuser, 15β30 min | Anxiety, sleep, respiratory congestion | Use in well-ventilated room |
| Essential oil (topical) | 2β3 drops per tbsp carrier oil | Massage, pain relief, skin care | Patch test first. Avoid sun exposure. |
| Rind/zest | 1β2 tsp grated zest daily | Flavoring, digestive aid | Use only green outer layer, avoid white pith |
β οΈ Important
Dosages are based on traditional use and limited clinical research. The FDA has not evaluated kaffir lime for medicinal use. Do not exceed recommended doses. Discontinue use if adverse reactions occur.
Safety & Drug Interactions
π€° Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
β οΈ Pregnancy Caution
Food use: Generally safe in normal culinary amounts. Kaffir lime leaves in cooking are considered safe during pregnancy.
Medicinal use: Not recommended during pregnancy. Essential oil may stimulate uterine contractions. Avoid high doses of kaffir lime juice or supplements.
Breastfeeding: Limited data. Culinary use is likely safe. Avoid medicinal doses. Consult healthcare provider.
π Drug Interactions
| Drug Class | Interaction | Severity | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Blood thinners (warfarin, aspirin) | Vitamin C and flavonoids may affect platelet function | Moderate | Use culinary amounts only. Avoid supplements. |
| Diabetes medications | May lower blood sugar; potential additive effect | Moderate | Monitor blood sugar closely. Adjust medication if needed. |
| Antihypertensives | Potassium content may affect blood pressure | Low | Culinary use is safe. Monitor if consuming large amounts. |
| CYP3A4 substrates | Limonene may inhibit CYP3A4 enzyme | Moderate | Avoid large amounts of rind/zest if taking these medications. |
| Iron supplements | Vitamin C enhances iron absorption (beneficial) | Positive | May be helpful. Take with kaffir lime juice for better absorption. |
| Sedatives | Linalool may enhance sedative effects | Low-Moderate | Avoid combining essential oil with sedative medications. |
π©Ί Who Should Avoid Kaffir Lime?
Pregnant Women
Avoid medicinal doses. Culinary use is generally safe. Essential oil may stimulate uterine contractions.
Young Children
Essential oil should not be used on children under 2. In children 2β6, use only in very dilute forms. Culinary use is safe.
Citrus Allergies
People with citrus allergies should avoid kaffir lime. Cross-reactivity with other citrus species is possible.
Sun Sensitivity
Citrus oils are phototoxic. Topical use of kaffir lime oil may increase sunburn risk. Avoid sun exposure for 12 hours after topical application.
β General Safety
Culinary use: Safe for most people when consumed in normal food amounts.
Essential oil: Never apply undiluted to skin. Avoid eye contact. Not for internal use unless food-grade. Store away from heat and light.
Allergic reactions: Rare but possible. Discontinue use if rash, itching, or swelling occurs.
Scientific Research
Key studies on the health properties of Citrus hystrix:
Antimicrobial Activity (2016)
Journal of Ethnopharmacology. Leaf extract effective against MRSA, E. coli, P. aeruginosa. Citronellal identified as primary antimicrobial compound. MIC values comparable to conventional antibiotics.
Insect Repellent Efficacy (2011)
Oil provided 2+ hour protection against Aedes aegypti mosquitoes, comparable to commercial botanical repellents. Citronellal and geraniol identified as active compounds.
Anxiolytic Properties (2013)
Phytomedicine. Inhalation reduced anxiety in animal models by 40%, comparable to diazepam. Effect attributed to linalool and citronellal acting on GABA-A receptors.
Antioxidant Activity (2014)
Significant DPPH radical scavenging activity. Key antioxidants: rutin, eriocitrin, vitamin C, terpenoids. Free radical neutralization comparable to vitamin E.
Blood Sugar Regulation (2017)
Leaf extract showed Ξ±-glucosidase inhibitory activity, potentially helpful for type 2 diabetes management. Reduces carbohydrate absorption in the gut.
Anti-Cancer Potential (2019)
Early-stage research shows limonene and citral may induce apoptosis in certain cancer cell lines. NOT a treatment β more research needed. Published in Asian Pacific Journal of Cancer Prevention.
Oral Health Study (2015)
Mouth rinse with kaffir lime leaf extract reduced S. mutans counts by 60%. Comparable to chlorhexidine mouthwash without the side effects (staining, taste alteration).
Sleep Quality (2020)
Aromatherapy with kaffir lime oil before bed improved sleep onset latency and total sleep time in adults with mild insomnia. Effect attributed to linalool's sedative properties.
π PubMed Search
Search for "Citrus hystrix" or "kaffir lime" on PubMed for the latest research. Over 200 peer-reviewed papers are available on this topic.