词条 | lime |
释义 | lime calcium oxide, an alkaline inorganic compound of calcium (q.v.). tree and fruit, Citrus genus ![]() Limes probably originated in the Indonesian archipelago or the nearby mainland of Asia. The Arabs may have taken limes, as well as lemons, from India to the eastern Mediterranean countries and Africa around AD 1000. Limes were introduced to the western Mediterranean countries by returning crusaders in the 12th and 13th centuries. Columbus (Columbus, Christopher) took citrus-fruit seed, probably including limes, to the West Indies on his second voyage in 1493, and the trees soon became widely distributed in the West Indies, Mexico, and Florida. Brazil leads in lime production, producing around 700,000 metric tons per year. Mexico produces about 530,000 tons annually and the U.S. about 44,000, mainly in southern Florida. Limes are grown throughout the West Indies and to a limited extent in practically all citrus-growing areas. Tahiti lime trees resemble lemon trees and are larger and more vigorous than the Mexican, with larger and darker coloured leaves. The fruit is larger and more elongated than the Mexican lime, the peel is thicker, and the fruit is nearly seedless. The lime fruit is a key ingredient in certain pickles and chutneys. Juice of the lime is used to flavour drinks, food, and confections. Limeade and other lime-flavoured drinks have a flavour and bouquet quite distinct from those made from lemons. The juice may be concentrated, dried, frozen, or canned. Lime oil is processed mainly in the West Indies. Citrate of lime and citric acid are also prepared from the fruit. Limes contain vitamin C (ascorbic acid) and were formerly used in the British Navy to prevent scurvy; hence the nickname “Limey.” The basswood, or linden, tree (a species of Tilia) is also called lime in England. |
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