Functional substances and therapeutic potential of kumquat essential oil

Kumquat essential oil (KEO) extracted from ripe kumquats has considerable potential value in the cosmetic, phytopharmaceutical, and food industries due to its desirable fragrance and diverse biological activities. However, compared to other plant essential oils, there are relatively few studies on the biological activity of KEO and limited data have been reported on its health benefits. This paper summarizes the composition of KEO and discusses the aromatic properties and pharmacological activities of some key components in KEO. We also discuss the impacts of a variety of processing conditions on these parameters. In particular, we focused on the application of KEO for therapeutic purposes, such as oxidative stress mitigation and organ protection benefits. Furthermore, relevant technologies for enhancing the performance of KEO, the related biomedical research, and future perspectives are discussed. Terpenoids, such as limonene and myrcene, are rich in double-bonded structures and are the most abundant components of KEO. In addition to terpenoids, there are also small amounts of oxygen-containing derivatives. These bioactive substances contribute to the unique flavor of KEO and exert various pharmacological effects, including antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-proliferative, anti-hypertensive, and protective effects on the heart, kidneys, lungs, and other organs. Overall, KEO and its bioactive substances are safe, and effective, and KEO is relatively easy to obtain. These substances represent alternative functional substances that can be used in a variety of applications in the food, nutraceutical, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries.