Limonene is a natural product predominantly found in the peels of citrus fruits and functions as a natural herbicide and pesticide.
Notably, limonene has therapeutic effects and is used as an antioxidant in various medications.
Natural Pesticides
Limonene in orange peels is also useful for preservation and flavoring in food and beverages. (Image: Minh Nhật).
In agriculture, farmers frequently use synthetic chemicals such as pesticides, herbicides, and fungicides to eliminate pest insects that harm crops.
However, the use of these chemicals can also be detrimental to plants.
Scientists have demonstrated that a type of oil found in citrus trees known as limonene can address this issue. This substance is also present in marigold plants.
It acts as a natural herbicide and pesticide, preventing the growth of weeds.
Thus, in many parts of the world, farmers often interplant marigolds alongside tomato crops.
The flowers and leaves of this plant release limonene, which helps eliminate harmful insects such as whiteflies that significantly reduce tomato yields.
This intercropping method has enabled farmers to avoid the harmful effects of synthetic pesticides while still allowing their crops to thrive.
Preservatives and Flavor
In the industrial sector, most foods and beverages use preservatives to extend shelf life.
Although preservatives undergo rigorous testing before being used, they can still have some side effects.
During the preservation process, food often accumulates substances such as hydrogen peroxide and glutathione that lead to degradation.
Limonene in orange peels helps prevent the production of these substances, thereby extending the shelf life of packaged foods.
Additionally, limonene is widely used in the food and beverage industry and is regarded as a fruit flavoring agent.
Alternative Medicine
Limonene in orange peels is beneficial for anti-inflammatory reactions.
Our immune system continuously “fights” to keep the body healthy, but sometimes it can be hindered if we contract certain illnesses.
According to scientists, limonene is beneficial in anti-inflammatory responses, helping to regulate the release of cytokines in the human body.
Cytokines are protein active substances relatively similar to hormones produced by immune cells, playing a crucial role in activating immune cell activity in the body.
At the same time, it also serves as an antioxidant in cancer treatments and in diabetes.
However, in the field of drug production, many effects of limonene have only been studied in vitro and in specific environments.
Scientists note that the benefits of limonene in the body from consuming orange peels still require further research and validation.
Moreover, although limonene acts as a biological solvent, industries do not use it for large-scale production due to high costs.
