Citrus hystrix – whole or cut leaves

Rich in essential oils, dried kaffir lime leaves offer a distinctive and refreshing aroma. They are frequently added to curries, broths, rice dishes, or used as a digestive infusion. They are also found in homemade cosmetic preparations for their vibrant fragrance.

Description

Whole or fragmented leaves, dark green to olive in color, with a very lemony, fresh and powerful aroma. Slightly leathery texture, strong taste.

Nomenclature

• Common names: Kaffir lime, kaffir lemon, kaffir lime
• Latin name: Citrus hystrix
• Family: Rutaceae
• Part used: Leaves
• Form: Loose (whole or cut)
• Origin: Southeast Asia, Indian Ocean
• English name: Kaffir lime leaves
• Name in German: Kaffernlimettenblätter
• Name in Spanish: Combava leaves
• Name in Italian: Foglie di combava
• Name in Arabic: أوراق الكومبافا (Awrāq al-Kumbāfā)

Main virtues

Kaffir lime leaves are traditionally valued for their aromatic, invigorating, and digestive properties. They are also used in natural cosmetics to perfume skin care products and massage oils.

Main constituents

Essential oils (citronellal, limonene), flavonoids, polyphenols.

Use and dosage

• Infusion: 1 to 2 leaves per cup, infuse for 7 to 10 minutes.
• Cuisine: in Asian dishes, curries, soups or exotic sauces.
• Cosmetic: decoction or macerate in vegetable oils for massage.

Precautions, side effects and contraindications

• May be allergenic in people sensitive to citrus fruits.
• Not recommended for concentrated use during pregnancy without medical advice.

History and origin

Used in the traditional cuisine of Laos, Thailand, and the Indian Ocean islands, kaffir lime leaves are a key ingredient in local aromatic preparations. Their intense aroma is also appreciated in artisanal cosmetics.

Miscellaneous information

• Packaging: loose in kraft bag or airtight box.
• Storage: Protect from humidity and light.
• Appearance: Whole or cut leaves, dark green to olive.
• Smell: lemony, fresh, powerful.

Sources and references

• Pl@ntUse – https://uses.plantnet-project.org
• Aromatic corpus of Southeast Asia
• Island culinary and herbal medicine books
• Natural cosmetic and plant perfumery references

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