Limes are also smaller and rounder than lemons. However, certain types of limes will turn yellow as they ripen, making the distinction a little more difficult. Lemons are usually bright yellow, while limes are typically a bright shade of green. Perhaps one of the most obvious differences between lemons and limes is their appearance.

While lemons and limes have many similarities, they have some distinct differences as well. They also contain many of the same plant compounds that may play a role in reducing inflammation and preventing certain diseases. Lemons and limes are similar in their nutritional makeup. Ultimately, more research is needed to determine whether these fruits can effectively treat conditions in humans. However, research on the potential medicinal and pharmacological benefits of lemons and limes is currently limited to animal and test-tube studies. One study in mice observed that citric acid - a specific compound found in citrus fruits - has a protective effect against inflammation in the brain and liver ( 8). Multiple studies suggest that these compounds may play a role in preventing heart disease and certain types of cancer, including breast and colon cancer ( 3, 5, 6, 7). Vitamin C - one of the main nutrients found in these citrus fruits - is well known for its antioxidant properties and plays a major role in sustaining a healthy immune system ( 4).Ĭitrus fruits also contain many other plant compounds with known antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties ( 3). Traditional herbal medicine practices have been known to utilize citrus fruits - like lemons and limes - for their medicinal benefits ( 3). Overall, lemons offer a slightly greater quantity of vitamins and minerals, including potassium, folate, and vitamin B6. Lemons provide more vitamin C than limes - but both make a significant dietary contribution of this vitamin. In terms of their macronutrient content - carbs, protein, and fat - lemons and limes are essentially identical with limes taking an insignificant lead in carb and calorie content. Lemons and limes are two types of citrus fruits that are utilized in a variety of culinary, medicinal, and household applications. They’re also included in many household cleaning products for their fragrance and antibacterial properties. The essential oils of lemons and limes are often used for cosmetic and medicinal purposes. They may be used in cooking, food preservation, or simply to impart flavor. These two fruits are well known for their acidic, sour flavor and featured in a variety of culinary applications around the world. Yet, lemons - formally known as Citrus limon - are typically grown in moderate climates, while limes - or Citrus aurantifolia - grow better in tropical and subtropical regions ( 1).īoth fresh and processed forms of lemons and limes are utilized in a number of different industries. Lemons and limes are now grown all over the world. However, this is merely one of many origin theories ( 1).īoth lemons and limes - as well as oranges, tangerines, citron, and grapefruit - belong to the broader category of citrus fruit. Some experts believe that lemons were created as a hybrid of lime and citron - a large, thick-rinded citrus fruit. Lemons and limes are two kinds of fruit that - though genetically different - are closely related.

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