Limes are a good source of dietary fiber and contain numerous other nutrients in small quantities. Not only are they edible, but they also good for the skin. As compared to lemons, limes contain less vitamin C, but the amount is still an excellent source, providing 35% of the Daily Value per 100 g serving. 

Although the precise origin is uncertain, limes are believed to have first grown in Indonesia or Southeast Asia than were transported to the Mediterranean region and northern Africa around 1000.

To prevent scurvy during the 19th century, British sailors have issued a daily allowance of citrus, such as lemon, and later switched to lime.

The British sailor thus acquired the nickname, "Limey" because of their usage of limes.