Lime - Estrogen Interaction
Herbal: Lime
Also Known As: Citrus aurantifolia, Adam's Apple, Bara Nimbu, Bijapura, Citron Vert, Citronnier Vert, Huile de Lime, Italian Limetta, Key Lime, Lima, Lime Oil, Limette, Limettier, Turanj
Drug: Estrogen
Brand names:
Estrogen
Medical Content Editor Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
Last updated
Jun 08, 2025
Interaction Details
Estrogen is classified as belonging to the following category: Cytochrome P450 3A4 (Cyp3A4) Substrates
Animal research shows that phenolics in lime juice inhibit cytochrome P450 3A4. This has been demonstrated in rats treated with sildenafil, a CYP3A4 substrate, and high doses of lime juice.
Interaction Rating
Likelihood of Occurrence
PossibleInteraction has been documented in animal or in lab research, or the interaction has been documented in humans but is limited to case reports or conflicting clinical research exists
References
- Bailey DG, Dresser GK, Bend JR. Bergamottin, lime juice, and red wine as inhibitors of cytochrome P450 3A4 activity: comparison with grapefruit juice. Clin Pharmacol Ther 2003;73:529-37.
- Ademosun AO, Mohammed A, Oboh G, Ajeigbe OF. Influence of lemon (Citrus limon) and lime (Citrus aurantifolia) juices on the erectogenic properties of sildenafil in rats with L-NAME-induced erectile dysfunction. J Food Biochem 2022;46(2):e14074.
Lime Overview
Lime (Citrus aurantifolia) is a citrus fruit native to Southeast Asia and is widely cultivated. It is a small, green, or yellow fruit with a sour, acidic taste and a fragrant, citrus aroma.
It is a rich source of vitamin C and antioxidants as well as other nutrients, such as flavonoids, which are plant compounds with purported antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Lime is used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of conditions, including digestive disorders, respiratory conditions, and skin problems. It is also used as a natural remedy for fever, headache, and other ailments. Lime is sometimes applied topically to the skin to treat cuts, wounds, and other skin conditions, and is used in aromatherapy to improve mood and reduce stress.
Estrogen Overview
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Estrogen is used to treat hot flushes ('hot flashes'; sudden strong feelings of heat and sweating) in women who are experiencing menopause ('change of life', the end of monthly menstrual periods). Some brands of estrogen are also used to treat vaginal dryness, itching, or burning, or to prevent osteoporosis (a condition in which the bones become thin and weak and break easily) in women who are experiencing or have experienced menopause. However, women who need a medication only to treat vaginal dryness or only to prevent osteoporosis should consider a different treatment. Some brands of estrogen are also to relieve symptoms of low estrogen in young women who do not produce enough estrogen naturally. Some brands of estrogen are also used to relieve the symptoms of certain types of breast and prostate (a male reproductive gland) cancer. Estrogen is in a class of medications called hormones. It works by replacing estrogen that is normally produced by the body.
Lime - More Interactions
Lime interacts with 864 drugs
Interaction Rating Key
These severity listings are for informational use only. Never start, stop or otherwise change your therapy before speaking with your provider.
| Major | The combined use of these agents is strongly discouraged as serious side effects or other negative outcomes could occur. |
| Moderate | Use cautiously under the care of a healthcare professional or avoid this combination. A significant interaction or negative outcome could occur. |
| Minor | Be aware that there is a chance of an interaction. Watch for warning signs of a potential interaction. |
| Unknown | No interactions have been reported or no interaction data is currently available. |
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Parts of this content are provided by the Therapeutic Research Center, LLC.
DISCLAIMER: Currently this does not check for drug-drug interactions. This is not an all-inclusive comprehensive list of potential interactions and is for informational purposes only. Not all interactions are known or well-reported in the scientific literature, and new interactions are continually being reported. Input is needed from a qualified healthcare provider including a pharmacist before starting any therapy. Application of clinical judgment is necessary.
© 2021 Therapeutic Research Center, LLC
Drug descriptions are provided by MedlinePlus.
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