What are some benefits and potential drawbacks of Limonene

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Benefits and Potential Drawbacks of Limonene

Limonene is a compound commonly found in the peel of citrus fruits, providing a distinctive fresh, bright scent and flavour typical of lemons and oranges. It's extensively used in cosmetics, cleaning products, food, and even in some medicines but like all substances, it has its set of benefits and potential drawbacks.

Benefits of Limonene

Limonene is renowned for its strong antibacterial and antifungal abilities making it popular in sanitizing products. It's often employed in food and drink industry as a flavouring due to its pleasant citrus taste (Suntar et al., 2020). Research also suggests it may have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, potentially reducing risk of chronic diseases (Vieira et al., 2018). Further, studies submit limonene may aid in weight loss and improving metabolic abnormalities (Murakami et al., 2003).

Potential Drawbacks of Limonene

Despite its benefits, limonene has been associated with potential drawbacks. Studies indicate some individuals may develop an allergy to limonene, causing skin irritation or contact dermatitis (Sasseville, 2012). In addition, when limonene reacts with ozone in the air, it forms formaldehyde - a potentially hazardous substance connected to negative respiratory effects (Anderson et al., 2012).

References: Anderson, S. E., Franko, J., Lukomska, E., & Meade, B. J. (2012). Potential immunotoxic effects of formaldehyde. Journal of Immunotoxicology, 9(4), 369-383. Murakami, A., Nakamura, Y., Torikai, K., Tanaka, T., Koshiba, T., & Koshimizu, K ... et al. (2003). Inhibitory effect of citrus nobiletin on phorbol ester-induced skin inflammation, oxidative stress, and tumor promotion in mice. Cancer Research; 63(18), 5059-66. Sasseville, D. (2012). Hypersensitivity to fragrances in cosmetics and skin care products. Dermatitis, 23(35), 153-163. Suntar, I., Khan, H., Patel, S., Celano, R., Rastrelli, L. (2020). An Overview on Citrus aurantium L.: Its Functions as Food Ingredient and Therapeutic Agent. Oxidative Medicine and Cellular Longevity. Vieira, A. J., Beserra, F. P., Souza, M. C., Totti, B. M., Rozza, A. L., ... & Pellizzon, C. H. (2018). Limonene: aromatherapy, pharmacological and cosmetic uses. Future Science.
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