The Pharmacological Effects and Potential Applications of Limonene From Citrus Plants: A Review

The citrus plant is the general term for Citrus, Fortunella, and Poncirus, which includes oranges, tangerines, lemons, grapefruits, and citrons. Not only does it contain a variety of delicious fruits, but it is also an important part of traditional Chinese medicine. Citrus plant peels are rich in essential oils, the primary active component of which is limonene. Modern pharmacological research has revealed that limonene has many pharmacological effects, including antibacterial, anticancer, analgesic, immune regulation, neuroprotection, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory properties, and the treatment of metabolic diseases. It finds widespread application in a variety of industries, including cosmetics, food, personal care, medicine, pesticides, and others. This article reviews the pharmacological effects of limonene from citrus plants to build a scientific basis for future limonene research and application and also to lay the groundwork for developing functional foods for the prevention and management of linked disorders.