Limes and lemons are one of the most delicious and healthy citrus fruits across the globe. Both of these fruits have a lot of properties in common, but limes and lemons are quite distinct from each other. They are widely used for non-culinary and culinary purposes. The pulp, rind, and juice of both the citrus fruits are found to be extensively used in baking, cooking, cleaning, and other departments.
Read on to find out more about lemons and limes, their nutritional similarities and differences, and health benefits.
Limes and lemons are citrus fruits(1) that are genetically dissimilar but are closely related to each other. Experts say that lemon is a hybrid blend of citron and lime, where citron is a big citrus fruit with a thick rind. But this theory is a mere theory Limes, lemons, tangerines, oranges, grapefruits, and citrons all belong to the family of citrus fruits.
Limes and lemons grow all across the world. While lemons grow in a moderate climate, limes thrive in subtropical and tropical regions. Both the processed and fresh varieties of limes and lemons are used in several industries.
Both of these fruits are renowned for the sour and acidic flavor and are indispensable in the culinary department.
The essential oils of limes and lemons are used in the medical and cosmetic industries. They are also used in manufacturing cleaning agents for their antibacterial and aromatic properties.
[Read: Benefits of Lemon Water]
Even though limes and lemons are quite different from each other, yet they share a host of characteristics in common, especially from the nutritional standpoint. Check out the comparative chart right here for a detailed analysis of limes and lemons.
A 100g serving of either lemon or lime has the following nutritional components.
Parameters | Limes | Lemons |
Calories | 30 | 29 |
Carbohydrates | 11g | 9g |
Fats | 0 | 0 |
Fiber | 3g | 3g |
Proteins | 1g | 1g |
Iron | 3% of RDI | 3% of RDI |
Vitamin C | 48% of RDI | 88% of RDI |
Potassium | 3% RDI | 4% of RDI |
Vitamin B9 | 2% of RDI | 3% of RDI |
Vitamin B6 | 2% of RDI | 4% of RDI |
Based on the content of macronutrients, limes and lemons are quite similar with neither leading the other in calorie count and carb content. Lemon is more abundant in vitamin C as compared to limes. But both the citrus fruits are relevant natural sources of vitamin C.
On the whole, lemons are slightly richer in minerals and vitamins, especially folate, potassium, and vitamin B6.
Check out the host of health benefits of limes and lemons below.
Both limes and lemons contain vitamin C that can boost the immune system and prevent the attack of pathogens.
Drinking the juice of lemons and limes is suitable for the natural cure of asthma and other respiratory diseases.
Iron is crucial for health as it helps in carrying the oxygen to the different cells in the body through the flow of blood.
Lemons and limes can ease the fight against one of the most dangerous diseases in the world.
Limes, lemons, oranges, and other citrus fruits have amazing effects on the skin.
Research reveals that limes and lemons can ward off the risks of stroke and help to maintain stable blood pressure.
Do you feel tense and stressed out with trivialities? Try a dash of lime or lemon. Limes and lemons play a significant role in regulating the central nervous system.
Limes and lemons are excellent for the maintenance of the pH value of the blood.
Has the simple task of discharging bowels become a painful experience for you? Try limes and lemons for instant relief from constipation and difficulty in bowel movement.
Limes and lemons are vested with potent antiviral and antibacterial properties.
[Read: Goodness of Citrus Fruits]
When it comes to the culinary department, both limes and lemons are being allotted similar methods and purposes.
Both the citrus fruits work great for salad dressings, beverages, marinades, sauces, and cocktails. The choice between limes and lemons depends upon the flavor profile and preferences of the dish.
The bitterness of limes is useful in dishes that are more tart and savory, whereas the sweetness of ripe lemons finds application in the preparation of sweet and savory dishes.
However, there are no strict rules, as limes are present in desserts and sweet drinks as well, like in margaritas, lime pies, limeade, etc.
Both limes and lemons are favorite citrus fruits and almost indistinguishable from each other. While lemons are a brighter shade of yellow and slightly sweet, the limes tend to dark green and are of a bitter disposition. Both the fruits are sour and acidic and are almost similar in shape as well.
Although lemons are usually oval and slightly larger whereas limes are small and perfectly round. But the bottom line is that both the citrus fruits possess a world of health benefits. Besides being in extensive use in the culinary, practical, cosmetic, and medicinal industries, lemons and limes are quite indispensable for health.
So what are you waiting for? Savor a drop of lime or lemon juice right now and see if you can make out any difference.