Analyzing Bioactive Compounds in Essential Oil of Citrus maxima and Citrus sinensis Peel

Citrus peels are a rich source of nutrients, essential oil, and phenolic acid compounds. As they are produced in large amounts during fruit processing, these residues can be used as a potential nutraceutical resource instead of disposal as the wastes in the environment. Regarding the beneficial uses of citrus peels, essential oil composition taken from peels of Citrus maxima and Citrus sinensis cultivated in Iran were identified. 29 and 23 compounds were detected in essential oils of C. maxima and C. sinensis, respectively. The most represented compound in both plants was limonene, with 95.43 % for C. maxima and 76.9 % for C. sinensis. Other predominant compounds detected in C. sinensis peel volatile oil were linalool (9.4 %), myrcene (3.5 %), alpha- pinene (1.2 %), n-octanal (1.1 %), and alpha-terpineol (1.2 %).

Automated summary

Citrus peels are a rich source of nutrients and essential oils, with limonene being the most represented compound. Essential oil composition from Citrus maxima and Citrus sinensis cultivated in Iran were identified, showcasing potential health benefits.