what is limonene

Limonene is a colorless liquid aliphatic hydrocarbon classified as a cyclic monoterpene, and it is the major component in the volatile oil of citrus fruit peels. It is especially concentrated in orange peels, comprising around 97% of this rind’s essential oils. Limonene is commonly used as a fragrance ingredient in cosmetics, food manufacturing, and some medicines, as well as a flavoring agent to mask the bitter taste of alkaloids. It is also used as a botanical insecticide, a solvent for cleaning purposes, and in organic herbicides. Additionally, limonene is found in supplement form and may offer several health benefits, such as anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-stress, and possibly disease-preventing properties. When applied to the skin, limonene is considered possibly safe in typical fragrance and personal hygiene product amounts, but it can cause skin reactions in people who are allergic to it. It is important to note that limonene might interact with certain medications that decrease or increase its breakdown in the liver, potentially affecting its effects and side effects. Overall, limonene is a versatile compound with various uses and potential health benefits, but caution should be exercised, especially for individuals with known allergies or those taking medications that may interact with it.