มะกรูด (Makrut) / Citrus hystrix – Kaffir Lime
Family: Rutaceae
Citrus hystrix, known in Thai as มะกรูด (Makrut), is a small evergreen tree native to Southeast Asia. It is prized for its aromatic leaves and rough-skinned green fruits. The leaves and rind are essential ingredients in Thai cuisine and widely used in herbal medicine for cleansing, detoxification, and digestive support.
Botanical Characteristics
Kaffir lime grows 2–5 meters tall with thorny branches and distinctive double leaves joined at the midrib. The fruit is small, dark green, and has a rough, bumpy rind rich in essential oils. The plant thrives in sunny tropical environments with well-drained soil.
Use in Thai Traditional Medicine
In Thai herbal medicine, มะกรูด is classified as a cooling and cleansing herb. Its leaves are used in herbal steam baths and compresses to refresh the body and relieve fatigue. The fruit rind is used to stimulate digestion, cleanse the scalp, and eliminate toxins. Kaffir lime juice is also mixed in traditional shampoos for its cleansing and aromatic qualities.
Active Compounds and Effects
The essential oils of kaffir lime contain citronellal, limonene, and β-pinene, contributing to its antimicrobial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties. It supports the digestive system, purifies the skin and hair, and promotes relaxation through its fragrance.
Culinary and Cultural Use
Both leaves and rind are indispensable in Thai cuisine, lending a fresh citrus aroma to soups, curries, and stir-fries. Beyond the kitchen, Makrut symbolizes freshness and purity, often used in spiritual cleansing rituals and traditional Thai wellness practices.
Cultivation Notes
Makrut thrives in full sun and prefers fertile, well-drained soil. It requires regular watering but should not be waterlogged. In the KBE Thai Medicinal Herb Garden, it is grown both for its medicinal and culinary value, contributing to the integrated Thai herbal ecosystem.
Historical Context
Kaffir lime has been cultivated in Thailand for centuries, featuring prominently in both kitchen and medicine. Its presence in traditional Thai wellness reflects a deep cultural understanding of plants that cleanse and restore balance to the body and spirit.
Disclaimer: This information is provided for educational and historical purposes only. It is not intended as medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using any herbal preparation.
