Essential Nose Kaffir Lime Leaf
Citrus hystrix
Kaffir lime leaf essential oil (Citrus hystrix) is steam-distilled from the distinctive double-lobed leaves and is dominated by beta-citronellal (up to 80%), with linalool and citronellol also present. It is distinct from the peel oil. Beta-citronellal gives the oil potent insect-repellent and antimicrobial activity.[1] The high citronellal content also confers strong antifungal properties documented against Candida and dermatophyte species.[2]
- Also Known As
- Makrut Lime Leaf, Thai Lime Leaf
- Family
- Citrus
- Perfumery Note
- Top
- Intensity
- Medium
- Extraction
- Steam Distillation
- Plant Parts
- Fruit peel
- Origins
- Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia
- Effect
- Focus & Clarity, Respiratory & Cleansing, Uplifting & Energizing
- Aroma
- Citrus, Fresh, Zesty
- Applications
- Aromatherapy, Culinary, Haircare
- Price
- $$$$Leaves are steam-distilled in small batches in Southeast Asia; the limited scale of dedicated leaf distillation keeps it at a moderate price point