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Citrus Essential Oils: A Review of Chemical Composition, Bioactivity, Safe Use, and Potential Applications
Yin Zhang1, Ruting Luo1, Rui Yang2
1School of Light Industry Science and Engineering, Beijing Technology and Business University, Beijing, China.
Chemistry & Biodiversity
|May 9, 2026
Summary
Citrus essential oils (EOs) offer diverse biological activities and industrial applications. This review covers their composition, extraction, uses, and safety, focusing on analytical methods for quality control and adulterant detection.
Area of Science:
- Food Chemistry
- Natural Product Chemistry
- Analytical Chemistry
Background:
- Citrus essential oils (EOs) are rich in monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes.
- These compounds possess significant anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antibacterial properties.
- Their applications span the food, pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and biomaterial industries.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the chemical composition and biological activities of Citrus EOs.
- To examine various extraction techniques, including cold pressing, distillation, and advanced methods like UAE, MAE, and SFE.
- To discuss analytical approaches for detecting adulterants and pesticide residues, addressing safety concerns like furocoumarin-induced photosensitivity.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of Citrus essential oils.
- Analysis of extraction methodologies (CP, solvent extraction, distillation, UAE, MAE, SFE).
- Examination of analytical techniques for chemical profiling and contaminant detection.
Main Results:
- Citrus EOs are complex mixtures with valuable bioactivities.
- Diverse extraction methods yield varying yields and compositions.
- Robust analytical methods are crucial for ensuring EO quality and safety.
Conclusions:
- Understanding Citrus EO composition, extraction, and bioactivity is vital for industrial applications.
- Analytical methods are essential for quality control, addressing adulteration and pesticide residues.
- Further research can support the safe and expanded use of Citrus EOs in various sectors.
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