Herb & supplement monograph

Lime Drug Interactions, Uses, Effectiveness, Safety & More

Medically reviewed by ·Updated July 2026
What is this page for?

First and foremost: how Lime interacts with medications. The heart of this page is the interaction list — every drug Lime is known to interact with, and how serious each one is.

But these pages have grown well beyond that into a full monograph — what Lime is, what people use it for and how strong the evidence is, its safety and side effects, and answers to the questions we’re asked most — written and reviewed by the clinical staff at HelloPharmacist. It’s educational information from our licensed clinical databases, not medical advice, and we don’t sell or endorse products. Our editorial policy

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Lime Drug Interactions: The Bottom Line

From the HelloPharmacist Editorial Team · Updated July 2026

Based on the available evidence, the overall risk of a clinically significant Lime drug interaction appears low for most people. Every listed interaction is rated moderate rather than major, and all of them rest on animal research or theory rather than solid human studies.

Interactions deserving the most attention

The main concern involves medications cleared by the CYP3A4 enzyme, a pathway the body uses to process a very wide range of drugs. Animal research suggests compounds in lime juice may slow this enzyme, which could raise levels of those medications, though this has not been confirmed in people. Separately, photosensitizing drugs may theoretically combine with lime oil to increase the risk of sun-related skin reactions. Neither concern is well documented in humans, but the enzyme effect deserves the most thought for anyone taking a narrow-margin medicine cleared this way.

What the rest of the list means

The long list of interacting medications comes almost entirely from that single enzyme pathway, which many drugs share. A drug appearing on the list does not mean the combination is harmful; it means an effect is possible in theory. So far, these predicted effects have only been seen in animal or lab research, not shown to cause meaningful changes in people.

Check your medications against Lime

Based on HelloPharmacist’s Lime interaction data and reviewed under our editorial standards.

Interaction report

Drugs that interact with Lime

886 medications have a known interaction with Lime, graded by severity. Select any drug for the full evidence-based detail.

2,830 drugs
Ado-trastuzumab EmtansineKadcyla
Moderate Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates

Animal research shows that phenolics in lime juice inhibit cytochrome P450 3A4.

Read the full Lime + Ado-trastuzumab Emtansine interaction Ado-trastuzumab Emtansine drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
AbemaciclibVerzenio
Moderate Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates

Animal research shows that phenolics in lime juice inhibit cytochrome P450 3A4.

Read the full Lime + Abemaciclib interaction Abemaciclib drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
Abiraterone
Moderate Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates

Animal research shows that phenolics in lime juice inhibit cytochrome P450 3A4.

Read the full Lime + Abiraterone interaction Abiraterone drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
Abiraterone AcetateYonsa, Zytiga
Moderate Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates

Animal research shows that phenolics in lime juice inhibit cytochrome P450 3A4.

Read the full Lime + Abiraterone Acetate interaction Abiraterone Acetate drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
AcalabrutinibCalquence
Moderate Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates

Animal research shows that phenolics in lime juice inhibit cytochrome P450 3A4.

Read the full Lime + Acalabrutinib interaction Acalabrutinib drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
AcepromazineAtravet
Moderate Photosensitizing Drugs

Theoretically, concomitant use of lime oil with photosensitizing drugs may increase the risk of phototoxicity.

Read the full Lime + Acepromazine interaction
Acetaminophen, Aspirin, CaffeineExcedrin, Excedrin Extra Strength, Excedrin Migraine
Moderate Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates

Animal research shows that phenolics in lime juice inhibit cytochrome P450 3A4.

Read the full Lime + Acetaminophen, Aspirin, Caffeine interaction
Acetaminophen, Brompheniramine, PhenylpropanolamineDimetapp Cold and Flu
Moderate Photosensitizing Drugs

Theoretically, concomitant use of lime oil with photosensitizing drugs may increase the risk of phototoxicity.

Read the full Lime + Acetaminophen, Brompheniramine, Phenylpropanolamine interaction
Acetaminophen, Butalbital, CaffeineEsgic, Esgic Plus, Fiogesic, Fioricet, Repan, Tecnal +1 more
Moderate Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates

Animal research shows that phenolics in lime juice inhibit cytochrome P450 3A4.

Read the full Lime + Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Caffeine interaction Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Caffeine drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Caffeine, CodeineEsgic with Codeine, Fioricet w/ Codeine
Moderate Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates

Animal research shows that phenolics in lime juice inhibit cytochrome P450 3A4.

Read the full Lime + Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Caffeine, Codeine interaction
Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Chlorpheniramine, Hydrocodone, PhenylephrineHycomine Compound
Moderate Photosensitizing Drugs

Theoretically, concomitant use of lime oil with photosensitizing drugs may increase the risk of phototoxicity.

Read the full Lime + Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Chlorpheniramine, Hydrocodone, Phenylephrine interaction
Acetaminophen, Caffeine, CodeineGesic C15, Gesic C30, Gesic C8, Lenoltec 1, Lenoltec 2, Lenoltec 3 +1 more
Moderate Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates

Animal research shows that phenolics in lime juice inhibit cytochrome P450 3A4.

Read the full Lime + Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Codeine interaction
Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Codeine, SalicylamideCodalan No.1, Codalan No.2, Codalan No.3
Moderate Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates

Animal research shows that phenolics in lime juice inhibit cytochrome P450 3A4.

Read the full Lime + Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Codeine, Salicylamide interaction
Acetaminophen, Caffeine, DihydrocodeineDHC Plus, Panlor DC, Panlor SS
Moderate Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates

Animal research shows that phenolics in lime juice inhibit cytochrome P450 3A4.

Read the full Lime + Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Dihydrocodeine interaction
Acetaminophen, Caffeine, IsomethepteneMigralam
Moderate Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates

Animal research shows that phenolics in lime juice inhibit cytochrome P450 3A4.

Read the full Lime + Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Isometheptene interaction
Acetaminophen, Caffeine, PyrilamineMidol Max Strength Menstrual
Moderate Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates

Animal research shows that phenolics in lime juice inhibit cytochrome P450 3A4.

Read the full Lime + Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Pyrilamine interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine Maleate, Dextromethorphan HbrVicks Formula 44M Cough, Cold & Flu Relief
Moderate Photosensitizing Drugs

Theoretically, concomitant use of lime oil with photosensitizing drugs may increase the risk of phototoxicity.

Read the full Lime + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine Maleate, Dextromethorphan Hbr interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Codeine, PhenylephrineColrex
Moderate Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates

Animal research shows that phenolics in lime juice inhibit cytochrome P450 3A4.

Read the full Lime + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Codeine, Phenylephrine interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, DextromethorphanCoricidin II Extra Strength Cold and Flu
Moderate Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates

Animal research shows that phenolics in lime juice inhibit cytochrome P450 3A4.

Read the full Lime + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan HydrobromideCoricidin HBP Maximum Strength Flu
Moderate Photosensitizing Drugs

Theoretically, concomitant use of lime oil with photosensitizing drugs may increase the risk of phototoxicity.

Read the full Lime + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan, PhenylpropanolamineMulti Symptom Cold Relief
Moderate Photosensitizing Drugs

Theoretically, concomitant use of lime oil with photosensitizing drugs may increase the risk of phototoxicity.

Read the full Lime + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan, Phenylpropanolamine interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan, PseudoephedrineChildren's Tylenol Cold Plus Cough, Tylenol Cold Ex Strength
Moderate Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates

Animal research shows that phenolics in lime juice inhibit cytochrome P450 3A4.

Read the full Lime + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan, Pseudoephedrine interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Guaifenesin, Phenylephrine, SalicylamideRhinogesic GG
Moderate Photosensitizing Drugs

Theoretically, concomitant use of lime oil with photosensitizing drugs may increase the risk of phototoxicity.

Read the full Lime + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Guaifenesin, Phenylephrine, Salicylamide interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, PhenylephrineAlka-Seltzer PLUS, Histex SR, Protid
Moderate Photosensitizing Drugs

Theoretically, concomitant use of lime oil with photosensitizing drugs may increase the risk of phototoxicity.

Read the full Lime + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Phenylephrine interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Phenylephrine, SalicylamideRhinogesic, Rhinogesic JR
Moderate Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates

Animal research shows that phenolics in lime juice inhibit cytochrome P450 3A4.

Read the full Lime + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Phenylephrine, Salicylamide interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, PhenylpropanolamineAlumadrine, Conex, Sinadrin Max Strength, Sinulin
Moderate Photosensitizing Drugs

Theoretically, concomitant use of lime oil with photosensitizing drugs may increase the risk of phototoxicity.

Read the full Lime + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Phenylpropanolamine interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Phenylpropanolamine, OpiumHista-Derfule
Moderate Photosensitizing Drugs

Theoretically, concomitant use of lime oil with photosensitizing drugs may increase the risk of phototoxicity.

Read the full Lime + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Phenylpropanolamine, Opium interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Phenylpropanolamine, PhenyltoloxamineNorel Plus
Moderate Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates

Animal research shows that phenolics in lime juice inhibit cytochrome P450 3A4.

Read the full Lime + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Phenylpropanolamine, Phenyltoloxamine interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, PseudoephedrineAlka-Seltzer PLUS Liquid Gels, Children's Tylenol Cold, Codimal, Comtrex, Extra Strength Tylenol Allergy Sinus, Lorsin +3 more
Moderate Photosensitizing Drugs

Theoretically, concomitant use of lime oil with photosensitizing drugs may increase the risk of phototoxicity.

Read the full Lime + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Pseudoephedrine interaction
Acetaminophen, Dexbrompheniramine, PseudoephedrineSinadrin Plus
Moderate Photosensitizing Drugs

Theoretically, concomitant use of lime oil with photosensitizing drugs may increase the risk of phototoxicity.

Read the full Lime + Acetaminophen, Dexbrompheniramine, Pseudoephedrine interaction
Read The List Like a Pharmacist

What Severity, Likelihood & Evidence Mean

Severity — How Serious It Can Be

  • Major. Clinically significant; generally best avoided, or used only under direct professional supervision.
  • Moderate. May need monitoring, a dose adjustment, or separating the times you take each one.
  • Minor. Generally not clinically significant, but still worth noting and mentioning to your pharmacist.
  • No known interaction. Checked against our sources with nothing documented — not the same as proven safety.

Likelihood — How Well It’s Documented

  • Likely. Well-controlled human studies have demonstrated the likely existence of this interaction
  • Probable. Interaction has not been documented in well-controlled studies, however, the interaction has been demonstrated in some small human studies or in controlled animal studies in conjunction with multiple case reports.
  • Possible. Interaction 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
  • Unlikely. Interaction has been demonstrated in animal or in lab research but has been shown not to occur in humans.

Where This Data Comes From

  • Interaction records are evidence-graded and sourced from the Natural Medicines database (TRC Healthcare), the same reference used by pharmacists and hospitals.
  • Each drug listed above links to the full report for that exact Lime combination — clinical detail, likelihood, evidence level, and citations.
  • Content is reviewed by licensed HelloPharmacist pharmacists — see our data sources and editorial standards.
The big picture

The kinds of drugs Lime affects

Every type of medication (drug category) Lime is known to interact with. Open any category for the detail — or search your exact drug in the checker above.

All 2 drug categories Lime interacts with
Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) SubstratesPhotosensitizing Drugs
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.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Photosensitizing Drugs

Theoretically, concomitant use of lime oil with photosensitizing drugs may increase the risk of phototoxicity.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Monograph

Lime: Uses, Safety & Side Effects

Medically reviewed by · Reviewed July 2026 ·
The bottom line

Lime is a common citrus fruit and a good natural source of vitamin C and plant antioxidants. As a food it is generally safe and enjoyed by most people, but evidence that lime treats any specific health condition is limited. Use the essential oil with care, and check with your pharmacist or doctor before using concentrated lime products for health reasons.

Lime
Scientific name
Citrus aurantifolia
Family
Rutaceae
Part used
Fruit, juice, peel, and essential oil
Common forms
Fresh fruit, juice, essential oil, zest/peel, extracts
People commonly use it for
  • Source of vitamin C
  • Digestive upset
  • Skin care
  • Mood and aromatherapy
  • Flavoring and food preservation

Popular and traditional uses — not proof it works. See “Uses & effectiveness” below for the evidence.

Safety at a glance
OverallLikely safe

Lime is safe for most people when used as a normal food or drink.

PregnancyInsufficient reliable information

Insufficient reliable information available; avoid using in amounts greater than those typically found in foods.

Read the full pregnancy detail
BreastfeedingInsufficient reliable information

Insufficient reliable information available; avoid using in amounts greater than those typically found in foods.

Read the full breastfeeding detail

Pregnancy & breastfeeding ratings are from Natural Medicines (Therapeutic Research Center). Safety guidance is general; always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor for your situation.

Jump to a section

Overview

Lime (Citrus aurantifolia) is a small, sour, green citrus fruit. It is thought to come from Southeast Asia and is now grown in warm regions around the world, including parts of Asia, the Americas, and the Mediterranean.

People use the fruit, juice, peel, and essential oil in many ways. Lime is most familiar as a food and drink flavoring, but it is also valued for its vitamin C and fragrant aroma. In some traditional medicine systems, lime has been used for digestion, coughs and colds, skin care, and to freshen and flavor food.

How it works

Lime contains vitamin C (ascorbic acid), citric acid, flavonoids, and aromatic oils such as limonene. Vitamin C acts as an antioxidant and supports many body processes, including making collagen for skin and blood vessels.

Flavonoids and other plant compounds have shown antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity in laboratory studies, and lime oils have shown some antimicrobial activity against bacteria in test tubes. It is important to know that effects seen in a lab dish or in animals do not always carry over to people, so these mechanisms are best described as proposed rather than proven.

Effectiveness

Does Lime work?

Here’s what the research actually shows for each use — graded by Natural Medicines and reviewed by .

Evidence overview · 4 uses evaluated
4 Insufficient evidence
How to read these evidence grades

Natural Medicines’ 7-point scale. We show each rating’s label word-for-word.

1EffectiveStrong, consistent evidence it works.
2Likely EffectiveGood evidence, though not yet conclusive.
3Possibly EffectiveSome evidence suggests a benefit.
4Possibly IneffectiveSome evidence it may not help.
5Likely IneffectiveFairly strong evidence it doesn’t help.
6IneffectiveStrong evidence it doesn’t work.
7Insufficient Reliable Evidence to RateToo little research to say either way.

For Lime, current evidence isn’t strong enough to rate any specific use. The conditions it has been studied for are listed below.

Also studied for 4 conditions — evidence insufficient to rate
Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Iron deficiency anemia
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Preliminary clinical research shows that consuming diluted lime juice 500 mL standardized to contain ascorbic acid 25 mg twice daily, 6 days weekly, for 8 months does not improve iron status in iron-deficient women who consume diets high in phytate and non-heme iron.

Sources Ref 59927
Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Malaria
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Preliminary clinical research in children aged 5 months to 13 years with malaria shows that taking lime juice 10-15 mL three times daily in addition to artemisinin combination therapy reduces the time to achieve a reduction in parasite load of at least 75% by approximately 8 hours when compared with using artemisinin combination therapy alone. Also, by 72 hours, more than twice as many children taking lime had achieved complete clearance.

Sources Ref 100120
Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Sickle cell disease
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Preliminary clinical research in infants, children, and adolescents with sickle cell disease shows that taking lime juice 5-15 mL twice daily depending on weight for 6 months, in addition to folic acid, vitamin B complex, and proguanil, reduces the rate of a painful bone crisis by approximately 55% compared with not taking lime. Rates of painful episodes, febrile illness, and hospital admission were reduced by 46%, 47%, and 10%, respectively. There was no benefit on rates of blood transfusion, hepatomegaly, splenomegaly, or jaundice.

Sources Ref 100121
Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Smoking cessation
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Preliminary clinical research in people quitting smoking shows that taking fresh lime as needed for 12 weeks is as effective as nicotine gum for reducing cravings. It also seems to improve continuous abstinence over the last 3 weeks of treatment and after an additional 12 weeks. Abstinence was measured using exhaled carbon monoxide.

Sources Ref 100131

Source & disclaimer. Effectiveness ratings and evidence summaries are provided by Natural Medicines (Therapeutic Research Center) and shown as licensed. Where Natural Medicines hasn’t rated a use, HelloPharmacist’s pharmacists may add their own reviewed rating and evidence (each such entry is labeled). This is educational information, not medical advice — talk with your pharmacist or doctor before starting, stopping, or changing a supplement.

Safety & precautions

Lime is generally safe when eaten or drunk as a normal part of the diet. Concentrated forms such as essential oil, strong extracts, or large supplement doses are less well studied and should be used with more caution.

A key concern is the skin. Lime juice and peel contain compounds that can cause a reaction called phytophotodermatitis — when lime gets on the skin and that skin is then exposed to sunlight, it can cause redness, burning, blistering, and dark stains that last weeks. Wash lime off your skin and avoid sun on areas that touched lime.

The acid in lime can also wear down tooth enamel over time and may worsen heartburn or mouth sores in some people. People with citrus allergies should avoid it.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Eating lime as a food is generally considered fine. However, there is not enough reliable information on concentrated lime extracts or essential oil during pregnancy or breastfeeding, so it is safest to avoid these unless your doctor approves.

Side effects

For most people, lime in food amounts causes few problems. Possible side effects include:

  • Heartburn or stomach upset from the acid
  • Irritation of mouth sores or sensitive teeth
  • Skin reactions, especially sun-triggered burns or dark patches after skin contact
  • Allergic reactions in people sensitive to citrus

Essential oils are very concentrated and should never be swallowed unless directed by a qualified professional, and should be diluted before being applied to skin.

Lime: Reported Adverse Effects

Documented safety reports on Lime from the evidence-graded Natural Medicines (TRC Healthcare) database, shown word-for-word from the licensed record.

Orally, lime juice may cause diarrhea or tooth sensitivity and wear, but these adverse effects are rare.

Topically, lime oil and lime juice can cause allergic contact dermatitis. Phytophotodermatitis is common when topical exposure to lime is followed by exposure to the sun.

Intravaginally, 20% to 100% lime juice can cause burning, dryness, pain, itching, erythema, edema, or abnormal bleeding.

  1. Garcia, O. P., Diaz, M., Rosado, J. L., and Allen, L. H. Ascorbic acid from lime juice does not improve the iron status of iron-deficient women in rural Mexico. Am.J.Clin.Nutr. 2003;78(2):267-273.
  2. Bamise CT, Dinyain VE, Kolawole KA. Dental erosion due to lime consumption; review of literature and case report. East Afr J Public Health. 2009;6(2):141-3.
  3. Rungruanghiranya S, Ekpanyaskul C, Sakulisariyaporn C, Watcharanat P, Akkalakulawas K. Efficacy of fresh lime for smoking cessation. J Med Assoc Thai. 2012;95 Suppl 12:S76-82.
  4. McGuffin M, Hobbs C, Upton R, Goldberg A, eds. American Herbal Products Association's Botanical Safety Handbook. Boca Raton, FL: CRC Press, LLC 1997.
  5. Roesyanto-Mahadi ID, Geursen-Reitsma AM, van Joost T, et al. Sensitization to fragrance materials in Indonesian cosmetics. Contact Dermatitis 1990;22:212-7.
  6. Assarian Z, Nixon RL. Protein contact dermatitis caused by lime in a pastry chef. Contact Dermatitis. 2015;73(1):54-6.
  7. Swerdlin A, Rainey D, Storrs FJ. Fragrance mix reactions and lime allergic contact dermatitis. Dermatitis. 2010;21(4):214-6.
  8. Weber, I. C., Davis, C. P., and Greeson, D. M. Phytophotodermatitis: the other "lime" disease. J Emerg.Med 1999;17(2):235-237.
  9. Wagner, A. M., Wu, J. J., Hansen, R. C., Nigg, H. N., and Beiere, R. C. Bullous phytophotodermatitis associated with high natural concentrations of furanocoumarins in limes. Am.J Contact Dermat. 2002;13(1):10-14.
  10. Coffman, K., Boyce, W. T., and Hansen, R. C. Phytophotodermatitis simulating child abuse. Am.J Dis.Child 1985;139(3):239-240.
  11. Flugman SL. Mexican beer dermatitis: a unique variant of lime phytophotodermatitis attributable to contemporary beer-drinking practices. Arch Dermatol. 2010;146(10):1194-5.
  12. Galvañ-Pérez Del Pulgar JI, Linares-Barrios M, Galvañ-Pozo JI Jr. Acropigmentation of the dorsum of the hands from preparing mojitos: A lime-induced phytophotodermatosis. Actas Dermosifiliogr. 2016;107(3):253-5.
  13. Mioduszewski M, Beecker J. Phytophotodermatitis from making sangria: a phototoxic reaction to lime and lemon juice. CMAJ. 2015;187(10):756.
  14. Hemmerling A, Potts M, Walsh J, Young-Holt B, Whaley K, Stefanski DA. Lime juice as a candidate microbicide? An open-label safety trial of 10% and 20% lime juice used vaginally. J Womens Health (Larchmt). 2007;16(7):1041-51.
Reports by condition
Dermatitis Immunologic

Topically, lime can rarely contribute to allergic contact dermatitis.

  1. Roesyanto-Mahadi ID, Geursen-Reitsma AM, van Joost T, et al. Sensitization to fragrance materials in Indonesian cosmetics. Contact Dermatitis 1990;22:212-7.
  2. Assarian Z, Nixon RL. Protein contact dermatitis caused by lime in a pastry chef. Contact Dermatitis. 2015;73(1):54-6.
  3. Swerdlin A, Rainey D, Storrs FJ. Fragrance mix reactions and lime allergic contact dermatitis. Dermatitis. 2010;21(4):214-6.
Diarrhea Gastrointestinal

Orally, diarrhea has been reported as an adverse effects in a clinical trial.

  1. Garcia, O. P., Diaz, M., Rosado, J. L., and Allen, L. H. Ascorbic acid from lime juice does not improve the iron status of iron-deficient women in rural Mexico. Am.J.Clin.Nutr. 2003;78(2):267-273.
Erythema Genitourinary

Intravaginally, 20% lime juice has resulted in burning, dryness, erythema, and edema. Higher doses of 25%, 50%, or 100% lime juice were dose-dependently related to vaginal, cervical, or vulval symptoms, especially pain, itching, and abnormal bleeding. The abnormal bleeding was most common in women that had applied 100% lime juice with a tampon. Peeling, erythema, discharge, and tenderness also occurred.

  1. Hemmerling A, Potts M, Walsh J, Young-Holt B, Whaley K, Stefanski DA. Lime juice as a candidate microbicide? An open-label safety trial of 10% and 20% lime juice used vaginally. J Womens Health (Larchmt). 2007;16(7):1041-51.
  2. Mauck CK, Ballagh SA, Creinin MD, et al. Six-day randomized safety trial of intravaginal lime juice. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr. 2008;49(3):243-50.
DISCLAIMER: This tool is intended for informational purposes only, and should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. Patients should consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about therapies and/or health conditions.

Adverse-effects data: Natural Medicines, Therapeutic Research Center

Dosing

There is no standardized medicinal dose of lime. As a food, people use lime juice, zest, or wedges freely to taste. For supplements, extracts, or essential oil products, there is no proven dose for any health condition.

If you use a commercial lime supplement or oil, follow the directions on the product label and check with your pharmacist or doctor first, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have a health condition.

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Lime & Pregnancy

Insufficient reliable information

Insufficient reliable information available; avoid using in amounts greater than those typically found in foods.

Lime & Breastfeeding

Insufficient reliable information

Insufficient reliable information available; avoid using in amounts greater than those typically found in foods.

DISCLAIMER: This tool is intended for informational purposes only, and should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. Patients should consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about therapies and/or health conditions.

© 2026 Therapeutic Research Center

Pregnancy & lactation ratings: Natural Medicines, Therapeutic Research Center

References & further reading

The 20 references that drive our Lime monograph and interaction data, from the evidence-graded Natural Medicines (TRC Healthcare) database. Citations with a link open the study on PubMed or the publisher’s site.

  1. McGuffin M, Hobbs C, Upton R, Goldberg A, eds. American Herbal Products Association's Botanical Safety Handbook. Boca Raton, FL: CRC Press, LLC 1997.
  2. Roesyanto-Mahadi ID, Geursen-Reitsma AM, van Joost T, et al. Sensitization to fragrance materials in Indonesian cosmetics. Contact Dermatitis 1990;22:212-7. PubMed
  3. Naganuma M, Hirose S, Nakayama Y, et al. A study of the phototoxicity of lemon oil. Arch Dermatol Res 1985;278:31-6. . PubMed
  4. 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. PubMed
  5. Weber, I. C., Davis, C. P., and Greeson, D. M. Phytophotodermatitis: the other "lime" disease. J Emerg.Med 1999;17(2):235-237. PubMed
  6. Wagner, A. M., Wu, J. J., Hansen, R. C., Nigg, H. N., and Beiere, R. C. Bullous phytophotodermatitis associated with high natural concentrations of furanocoumarins in limes. Am.J Contact Dermat. 2002;13(1):10-14. PubMed
  7. Garcia, O. P., Diaz, M., Rosado, J. L., and Allen, L. H. Ascorbic acid from lime juice does not improve the iron status of iron-deficient women in rural Mexico. Am.J.Clin.Nutr. 2003;78(2):267-273. PubMed
  8. Coffman, K., Boyce, W. T., and Hansen, R. C. Phytophotodermatitis simulating child abuse. Am.J Dis.Child 1985;139(3):239-240. PubMed
  9. Adegoke SA, Oyelami OA, Olatunya OS, Adeyemi LA. Effects of lime juice on malaria parasite clearance. Phytother Res. 2011;25(10):1547-50. PubMed
  10. Adegoke SA, Shehu UA, Mohammed LO, Sanusi Y, Oyelami OA. Influence of lime juice on the severity of sickle cell anemia. J Altern Complement Med. 2013;19(6):588-92. PubMed
  11. Assarian Z, Nixon RL. Protein contact dermatitis caused by lime in a pastry chef. Contact Dermatitis. 2015;73(1):54-6. PubMed
  12. Bamise CT, Dinyain VE, Kolawole KA. Dental erosion due to lime consumption; review of literature and case report. East Afr J Public Health. 2009;6(2):141-3. PubMed
  13. Flugman SL. Mexican beer dermatitis: a unique variant of lime phytophotodermatitis attributable to contemporary beer-drinking practices. Arch Dermatol. 2010;146(10):1194-5. PubMed
  14. Galvañ-Pérez Del Pulgar JI, Linares-Barrios M, Galvañ-Pozo JI Jr. Acropigmentation of the dorsum of the hands from preparing mojitos: A lime-induced phytophotodermatosis. Actas Dermosifiliogr. 2016;107(3):253-5. DOI
  15. Hemmerling A, Potts M, Walsh J, Young-Holt B, Whaley K, Stefanski DA. Lime juice as a candidate microbicide? An open-label safety trial of 10% and 20% lime juice used vaginally. J Womens Health (Larchmt). 2007;16(7):1041-51. PubMed
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This information is for education only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always check with your pharmacist or doctor before starting, stopping, or combining supplements and medications.

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

Brand directory

Brands that make products with Lime

151 brands in our database make a supplement containing Lime.

Product directory

Supplement products with Lime

495 products in our database contain Lime. Open any to see its full ingredient list and every drug interaction we check.

2-Day Diet Detox Natural Berry Flavor by SuperJuice Liquid 473 mL View ingredients & interactions Acid Neutralizer Mild Grape Flavor by Greens First Pro Powder 4.29 Oz(s) · 121.8 Gram(s) View ingredients & interactions Activated B-Complex by Isotonix Powder 10.5 Ounce(s) · 300 Gram(s) View ingredients & interactions Adaptogen Focus with Lion's Mane Pineapple + Lime by Four Sigmatic Liquid 2.5 fl. Oz. · 74 mL View ingredients & interactions Adult Sinus Support by Redd Remedies Capsule 72 Vegan Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions Advanced Mineral Complex Plus by New Sun Liquid 32 oz. · 946 mL View ingredients & interactions Advanced Multiple by BodSmith Liquid 1 Quart(s) · 32 Fluid Ounce(s) · 946 mL View ingredients & interactions Advanced Omega by Nutrilite Softgel Capsule 60 Packet(s) · 60 Softgel(s) View ingredients & interactions Advanced Omega by Nutrilite Softgel Capsule 60 Softgel(s) View ingredients & interactions Age Defying Formula by California Academy of Health Liquid 32 Fluid Ounce(s) · 946 mL View ingredients & interactions Ageless Essentials With Product B by Isagenix Unknown 60 Pack(s) View ingredients & interactions Agrisept-L by Nutri-Diem Liquid 1 fl. Oz. · 30 mL View ingredients & interactions Alive Cola by GT’s Alive Liquid 16 Fluid Ounce(s) · 473 mL View ingredients & interactions Alive! Adult Ultra Potency Complete Multivitamin by Nature's Way Tablet Or Pill 60 Tablet(s) View ingredients & interactions Alive! Children's Chewables Multi-Vitamin Orange + Berry Fruit Flavors by Nature's Way Tablet Or Pill 120 Chewable Tablet(s) View ingredients & interactions Alive! Complete Liquid Multivitamin Max Potency Citrus Flavored by Nature's Way Liquid 30.4 Fluid Ounce(s) · 1.9 Pint(s) · 900 mL View ingredients & interactions Alive! Kids Chewable Multivitamin Orange & Berry Fruit Flavored by Nature's Way Tablet Or Pill 120 Chewable Tablet(s) View ingredients & interactions Alive! Max 3 Potency Adult Complete Multivitamin with Iron by Nature's Way Tablet Or Pill 90 Tablet(s) View ingredients & interactions Alive! Max 6 Potency Adult Complete Multivitamin No Added Iron by Nature's Way Capsule 90 Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions Alive! Max3 Potency Adult Complete Multivitamin Tablets with Iron by Nature's Way Tablet Or Pill 90 Tablet(s) View ingredients & interactions Alive! Max3 Potency Multivitamin by Nature's Way Tablet Or Pill 60 Tablet(s) View ingredients & interactions Alive! Max3 Potency Women's Multivitamin by Nature's Way Tablet Or Pill 90 Tablet(s) View ingredients & interactions Alive! Men's 50+ Ultra Multivitamin by Nature's Way Tablet Or Pill 150 Tablet(s) View ingredients & interactions Alive! Men's 50+ Ultra Potency Complete Multivitamin by Nature's Way Tablet Or Pill 60 Tablet(s) View ingredients & interactions
Pharmacist Counseling Corner

Lime: Common Questions

What is Lime used for, and does it work?
People use Lime for a range of reasons, but according to the Natural Medicines database the current clinical evidence is insufficient to confirm it works for the specific conditions it has been studied for. See the graded list on this page, and talk to your pharmacist or doctor before relying on it for any condition.
Does Lime interact with prescription medications?
Yes. We list 886 medications with a known interaction with Lime. Use the checker above to see how Lime interacts with a specific drug.
How are Lime interactions rated?
Each interaction is graded major, moderate, or minor based on how clinically significant it is and the strength of the evidence behind it. Major interactions are the most serious and are best avoided, or used only under close professional supervision.
Is it safe to take Lime with my medications?
It depends on the specific medication. Some combinations are fine, while others call for monitoring, timing changes, or should be avoided. Check your exact drug above and confirm with your pharmacist or doctor before starting, stopping, or changing anything.
Where does this Lime interaction information come from?
Our interaction data is built on the Natural Medicines database — an evidence-graded reference for vitamins, herbs, and supplements — and is reviewed by licensed HelloPharmacist pharmacists, who may add clinical context.
What is Lime mainly used for?
Lime is mostly used as a food and drink flavoring and as a source of vitamin C and antioxidants. Traditionally it has also been used for digestion, colds, skin care, and aromatherapy, though these uses are not well proven.
Is Lime good for my immune system?
Lime provides vitamin C, which the body needs for normal immune function. Eating it as part of a balanced diet can help meet your vitamin C needs, but Lime alone is not a proven treatment for infections.
Can Lime juice harm my skin?
Yes, Lime juice on the skin followed by sun exposure can cause a reaction with burning, blistering, and dark spots. Rinse Lime off your skin and keep exposed areas out of the sun.
Is it safe to eat Lime during pregnancy?
Eating Lime as a normal food is generally considered fine in pregnancy. Concentrated Lime extracts and essential oils have not been well studied, so avoid them unless your doctor approves.

Written and reviewed by the HelloPharmacist editorial staff. Our editorial policy

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Products that contain Lime

A rotating sample of real supplements in our database that list Lime — open any to see its full ingredients and every drug interaction we check.

See all 495 products with Lime →
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