Lime Leaf Love

Lime Leaf:

Lime shrubs are found all over the island of Jamaica. They can root from within the porous  rock-stone, and  thrives lavishly from the clean Caribbean sunshine and rainwater. This is one of my go-to plants to help relieve digestive problems. I drink a glass of lime water nearly every morning to help release acid and gas. It’s also loaded with vitamin C which is so good for boosting the immune system. Most people are familiar with the fruit, but don’t know the benefits of the lime leaf.

The tea is a herbal medicine for nerve tonic, high blood pressure, peptic ulcers, colds, asthma, digestion, constipation, respiratory conditions and can be used as a sedative.

Lime leaf contains Vitamin C as well as flavonoids which makes it a good medicinal herb known to treat heart disease and cancer. I like to chew lime leaves to prevent nausea and upset stomach.

In Jamaica, many people use lime leaf in “bush tea” usually consisting of lemongrass (fever-grass), sour-sop leaf and lime leaf.  These herbs are usually readily available in every Jamaican “yaad” in the countryside. To make the tea, simply boil about 6 leaves in water let it “draw”. Some choose to add a little brown sugar or honey to sweeten it. The juice is also good to be used as a disinfectant for wounds, cuts and bruises.

Another common remedy used in Jamaica to treat sore throat and colds is lime and honey. Squeeze the juice of one lime and mix a tablespoon or two of honey and spoon into mouth for relief.

Lime Fruit :

Lime fruit is great for fighting bad breath, protecting the liver, detoxifying the blood, aids in weight loss, fights inflammation, enhances mood, re-hydrates the body,