Lime (Steam Distilled) (Citrus aurantifolia) is a citrus essential oil with a soft, fresh aroma and a top note. Steam distillation from fruit peel, it is a versatile blending oil that pairs well with Bergamot (FCF), Blood Orange, Lavender. For topical use, keep dilution at or below 20%.
Aroma & character
Aroma
Traditional aromatherapy associations
Traditional associations only — not medical claims or evidence of efficacy.
Properties
| Perfumery note | Top |
| Aroma family | Citrus |
| Chemical family | Monoterpene |
| Material type | Essential oil |
| Extraction | Steam distillation |
| Plant part | fruit peel |
| Origin | Mexico, Peru, Brazil |
| Blending factor | 7 |
| Volatility index | 1 |
| Tenacity (hours) | 0.5 |
Safety & dilution
| Max topical dilution | 20% |
| Max facial dilution | 5% |
| Pregnancy | Generally suitable when properly diluted |
| Nursing | Generally suitable when properly diluted |
| Children | Generally suitable, well diluted (from ~2 months) |
| Cats | Not recommended |
| Dogs | Generally suitable when properly diluted |
Safety flags
Evidence: Moderate — Kiecolt-Glaser et al., 2008 -- Citrus aurantifolia aromatic effects (pilot).
For education only — not medical or veterinary advice. Essential oils are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any condition. Always patch-test and consult a qualified professional before use during pregnancy, on children, with pets, or with a health condition.
Get the right drops-per-bottle with the drops & dilution calculator.
Blends well with
Used in these blends
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- Open Garden →
- Bloom Wave →
- Lullaby Horizon →
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Frequently asked questions
What does Lime (Steam Distilled) essential oil smell like?
Lime (Steam Distilled) has a soft, fresh aroma, classed as a citrus oil with a top note.
What is the safe dilution for Lime (Steam Distilled)?
For topical use, keep Lime (Steam Distilled) at or below 20%, and 5% on facial skin. Always patch-test before wider use.
Is Lime (Steam Distilled) safe to use during pregnancy?
Lime (Steam Distilled) is generally considered suitable during pregnancy when properly diluted. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before use.
Is Lime (Steam Distilled) safe to use around children?
Lime (Steam Distilled) is generally considered suitable for children when well diluted (from around 2 months). Consult a professional for young children.
Is Lime (Steam Distilled) safe around pets?
For cats — avoid; not considered safe; dogs — generally lower-risk when well diluted. Diffuse only in ventilated spaces and consult a veterinarian.
What does Lime (Steam Distilled) blend well with?
Lime (Steam Distilled) pairs well with Bergamot (FCF), Blood Orange, Lavender, Ylang Ylang (Complete), Ginger.