LIMONENE

Limonene is also used as a botanical insecticide.
Limonene is used in the organic herbicides.
Limonene is also used as a solvent for fused filament fabrication based 3D printing.

CAS Number: 138-86-3 (R/S) 
5989-27-5 (R) 
5989-54-8 (S) 
EC Number: 227-813-5
MDL number: MFCD00062991
Molecular Formula: C10H16

SYNONYMS:
Dipentene, D-Limonene, (R)-Limonene, (+)-Limonene, Citrus Terpene, 1-Methyl-4-(1-methylethenyl)cyclohexene, 4-Isopropenyl-1-methylcyclohexene, p-Mentha-1,8-diene, Cyclohexene, 1-methyl-4-(1-methylethenyl)-, p-Mentha-1,8-diene, α-Limonene, Cajeputen, Cajeputene, Cinen, Cinene, Dipenten, Dipentene, Eulimen, Kautschin, Limonen, Nesol, p-Mentha-1,8(9)-diene, δ-1,8-Terpodiene, p-Mentha-1,8-diene, dl-, Acintene DP dipentene, Di-p-mentha-1,8-diene, DL-Limonene, Inactive limonene, 1-Methyl-4-isopropenyl-1-cyclohexene, 1,8(9)-p-Menthadiene, 4-Isopropenyl-1-methyl-1-cyclohexene, Acintene DP, Dipanol, UN 2052, Unitene, 4-Isopropenyl-1-methylcyclohexene, 1,8-p-Menthadiene, 1-Methyl-4-(1-methylethenyl)cyclohexene, 1-Methyl-4-isopropenylcyclohexene, (.+/-.)-Limonene, Achilles dipentene, 1-methyl-4-isopropenylcyclohex-1-ene, 1-methyl-4-(prop-1-en-2-yl)cyclohex-1-ene, Cyclohexene, 1-methyl-4-(1-methylethynyl), Cyclohexene, 1-methyl-4-(1-methylethenyl)-, (.+/-.)-, (.+/-.)-Dipentene, (.+/-.)-α-Limonene, Flavor orange, Goldflush II, NSC 21446, Orange flavor, PC 560, D-Limonene, (+)-limonene, (+)-(4R)-limonene, ( R/ S)-limonene, (R)-(+)-Limonene, (R)-Limonene, (±)-limonene, Limonene [4R-(+), 4S-(-)], δ-Limonene, 1-Limonene, 1-methyl-4-isopropenylcyclohex-1-ene (limonene), (S)-(-)-Limonene, Limonene+, Dipentene limonene, 1-methyl-4-(1-methylethenyl)cyclohexene, (R), l-limonene, d-limonene, dl-limonene, dipentene, Acintene DP, Cinene, Dipanol, Unitene, 1-methyl-4-isopropentyl-1-cyclohexene, 1-Methyl-4-(prop-1-en-2-yl)cyclohex-1-ene, 1-Methyl-4-(1-methylethenyl)cyclohexene, 4-Isopropenyl-1-methylcyclohexene, p-Menth-1,8-diene, Racemic: DL-Limonene; Dipentene, LIMONENE, Dipentene, 138-86-3, Cinene, Cajeputene, DL-Limonene, Kautschin, Dipenten, Eulimen, Nesol, p-Mentha-1,8-diene, 1,8-p-Menthadiene, Cajeputen, Limonen, Cinen, Inactive limonene, Acintene DP dipentene, (+/-)-Limonene, 1-Methyl-4-(1-methylethenyl)cyclohexene, Cyclohexene, 1-methyl-4-(1-methylethenyl)-, Unitene, alpha-Limonene, Flavor orange, Orange flavor, Goldflush II, 4-Isopropenyl-1-methylcyclohexene, Acintene DP, 4-Isopropenyl-1-methyl-1-cyclohexene, Dipanol, Di-p-mentha-1,8-diene, 1,8(9)-p-Menthadiene, d,l-Limonene, Limonene, dl-, 7705-14-8, Dipentene 200, (+-)-Dipentene, DL-4-Isopropenyl-1-methylcyclohexene, (+-)-Linonene, Caswell No. 526, delta-1,8-Terpodiene, p-Mentha-1,8-diene, dl-, (+-)-alpha-Limonene, Dipentene, crude, 1-methyl-4-(prop-1-en-2-yl)cyclohex-1-ene, MENTHA-1,8-DIENE (DL), NSC 21446, PC 560, 1-Methyl-4-isopropenyl-1-cyclohexene, Terpodiene, Ciene, 1-methyl-4-prop-1-en-2-ylcyclohexene, Cyclil decene, HSDB 1809, Limonene, (+/-)-, NSC 844, Orange x, Dipentene, technical grade, p-Mentha-1,8-diene, (+-)-, .alpha.-Limonene, DIPENTENE (+-), EINECS 205-341-0, EINECS 231-732-0, 1-Methyl-p-isopropenyl-1-cyclohexene, EPA Pesticide Chemical Code 079701, Mentha-1,8-diene, DTXSID2029612, UNII-9MC3I34447, CHEBI:15384, AI3-00739, NSC-844, NSC-21446, (+-)-(RS)-limonene, DL-p-mentha-1,8-diene, Mentha-1,8-diene, DL, .delta.-1,8-Terpodiene, 8016-20-4, 9MC3I34447, Terpenes and Terpenoids, limonene fraction, Methyl-4-isopropenylcyclohexene, DTXCID209612, NSC844, 65996-98-7, (1)-1-Methyl-4-(1-methylvinyl)cyclohexene, 1-Methyl-4-isopropenylcyclohexene, Methyl-4-isopropenyl-1-cyclohexene, NSC21446, Methyl-4-(1-methylethenyl)cyclohexene, NCGC00163742-03, 4-(1-methylethenyl)-1-methyl-cyclohexene, (+/-)-1-METHYL-4-(1-METHYLETHENYL)CYCLOHEXENE, Cyclohexene, 1-methyl-4-(1-methylethenyl)-, (.+/-.)-, Limonene 1000 microg/mL in Isopropanol, CAS-138-86-3, 4-mentha-1,8-diene, TERPIN MONOHYDRATE IMPURITY C (EP IMPURITY), TERPIN MONOHYDRATE IMPURITY C [EP IMPURITY], Cyclohexene, 1-methyl-4-(1-methylethenyl)-, (R)-, UN2052, Achilles dipentene, Dipentene, tech., 4-isopropenyl-1-methyl-cyclohexene, Nesol/from Table/, c0626, MFCD00062992, p-Mentha-1, dl-, d(R)-4-Isopropenyl-1-methylcyclohexene, limonene, (+-)-, (.+-.)-Limonene, (.+-.)-Dipentene, p-Menthane/from Table/, 4 Mentha 1,8 diene, LIMONENE [HSDB], LIMONENE [MI], (.+/-.)-Dipentene, (.+/-.)-Limonene, DIPENTENE [VANDF], DIPENTEN [WHO-DD], Cyclohexene, (.+-.)-, Dipentene, p.a., 95%, (+-)-LIMONENE, 1-METHYL-4-PROP-1-EN-2-YL-CYCLOHEXENE, p-Mentha-1,8(9)-diene, CHEMBL15799, (.+/-.)-.alpha.-Limonene, (+/-)-p-Mentha-1,8-diene, p-Mentha-1, (.+-.)-, HMS3264E05, Pharmakon1600-00307080, HY-N0544, LIMONENE, (+/-)-(II), Tox21_112068, Tox21_201818, Tox21_303409, NSC757069, STK801934, 1-methyl-4-isopropenylcyclohex-1-ene, LIMONENE, (+/-)- [II], AKOS009031280, Cyclohexene, 4-Isopropenyl-1-methyl-, USEPA/OPP Pesticide Code 079701, WLN: L6UTJ A1 DY1 & U1, CCG-214016, FS-8076, p-Mentha-1,8-diene, (.+/-.)-, SB44847, UN 2052, NCGC00163742-01, NCGC00163742-02, NCGC00163742-04, NCGC00163742-05, NCGC00257291-01, NCGC00259367-01, turpentine oil terpenes limonene fraction, DA-75016, NCI60_041856, 1-methyl-4-(1-methylethenyl) cylcohexene, 1-methyl-4-(prop-1-en-2-yl)cyclohexene, Dipentene [UN2052] [Flammable liquid], Cyclohexene, 1-methyl-4-(1-methylethynyl), DB-053490, DB-072716, CS-0009072, L0046, NS00067923, EN300-21627, C06078, D00194, E88572, AB01563249_01, Q278809, SR-01000872759, CYCLOHEXENE 1-METHYL-4-(1-METHYLETHENYL)-, J-007186, J-520048, SR-01000872759-1, BRD-A81494260-001-02-5, 4B4F06FC-8293-455D-8FD5-C970CDB001EE, Dipentene, mixt. of limonene, 56-64%, and terpinolene, 20-25%, 1-Methyl-4-(1-methylethenyl)-or 1-methyl-4-isopropenyl-cyclohex-1-ene, 65996-99-8

Limonene (/ˈlɪmənˌiːn/) is a colorless liquid aliphatic hydrocarbon classified as a cyclic monoterpene, and is the major component in the essential oil of citrus fruit peels.
The (+)-isomer, occurring more commonly in nature as the fragrance of oranges, is a flavoring agent in food manufacturing.

Limonene is a compound found in the rind of citrus fruits and certain plant species, belonging to a group of compounds known as terpenes. 
Limonene is known for its strong aroma and has various health benefits, including antibacterial properties and potential anticancer effects.

Limonene is a naturally occurring essential oil most commonly found in the peels of citrus fruits such as oranges or lemons and is responsible for the distinctive smell and taste of these citrus fruits.
Studies have linked limonene to several health benefits including promoting weight loss, preventing cancer, and treating bronchitis.

Limonene, also known as terpene, is a chemical found in the peels of citrus fruits such as lemons, limes, mandarin, grapefruit, and oranges.
Limonene takes its name from Italian limone ("lemon").

Limonene is a chiral molecule, and biological sources produce one enantiomer: the principal industrial source, citrus fruit, contains (+)-limonene (d-limonene), which is the (R)-enantiomer.
Limonene is obtained commercially from citrus fruits through two primary methods: centrifugal separation or steam distillation.

Limonene is a monoterpene that is cyclohex-1-ene substituted by a methyl group at position 1 and a prop-1-en-2-yl group at position 4 respectively. 
Limonene has a role as a human metabolite. 
Limonene is a cycloalkene and a p-menthadiene.

Limonene has been reported in Camellia sinensis, Hypericum foliosum, and other organisms with data available.
Limonene, (+/-)- is a racemic mixture of limonene, a natural cyclic monoterpene and major component of the oil extracted from citrus rind with chemo-preventive and antitumor activities. 

The metabolites of DL-limonene, perillic acid, dihydroperillic acid, uroterpenol and limonene 1,2-diol are suggested to inhibit tumor growth through inhibition of p21-dependent signaling, induce apoptosis via the induction of the transforming growth factor beta-signaling pathway, inhibit post-translational modification of signal transduction proteins, result in G1 cell cycle arrest as well as cause differential expression of cell cycle- and apoptosis-related genes.

Limonene is a naturally-occurring class of MONOTERPENES which occur as a clear colorless liquid at room temperature. 
Limonene is the major component in the oil of oranges which has many uses, including as flavor and fragrance. 
Limonene is recognized as safe in food by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Limonene (1-methyl-4-isopropyl-cyclohexene) is a monoterpene, as other monoterpenes consists of two isoprene units, that comprises more than 90% of citrus essential oil and it exists in many fruits and vegetables.
Limonene is the oil extracted from the peels of oranges and other citrus fruits.

People have been extracting essential oils like limonene from citrus fruits for centuries. 
Today, limonene is often used as a natural treatment for a variety of health issues and is a popular ingredient in household items.
However, not all of limonene’s benefits and uses are supported by science.

Limonene is a chemical found in the rind of citrus fruits, such as lemons, limes, and oranges. 
Limonene is especially concentrated in orange peels, comprising around 97% of this rind’s essential oils.
Limonene’s often referred to as d-limonene, which is its main chemical form.

Limonene belongs to a group of compounds known as terpenes, whose strong aromas protect plants by deterring predators.
Limonene is one of the most common terpenes found in nature and may offer several health benefits. 
Limonene has been shown to possess anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-stress, and possibly disease-preventing properties.

Limonene is an essential oil found in citrus fruit peels. 
Limonene belongs to a class of compounds called terpenes.
Limonene appears as a colorless liquid with an odor of lemon. 

Flash point of Limonene is 113 °F. 
Density of Limonene is about 7.2 lb /gal and insoluble in water. 
Limonene hence floats on water. 

Vapors of Limonene is heavier than air. 
Limonene is a metabolite found in or produced by Saccharomyces cerevisiae.
Limonene is a naturally occurring compound found mainly in the skin of certain plants and fruits, including lemons and oranges. 

Limonene is used in cleaning products for two reasons: it has a pleasant, lemon-orange smell, and it acts as a solvent to help clean.
Limonene is from a large family of natural substances called terpenes, and it has no colour and its toxicity is low. 
However, you might have heard about Limonene recently because, when it reacts with ozone in the air, it undergoes change which releases tiny amounts of other compounds, including formaldehyde.

Peeling an orange releases orange oil into the air. 
As orange oil is 90% Limonene you can get more exposure by peeling an orange than from using cleaning products.
Limonene is a scent ingredient and solvent naturally ocurring in the rind of citrus fruit. 

Upon storage and exposure to sunlight and air, limonene degrades to various oxidation products which act as skin and respiratory irritants and sensitizers.
Limonene, a terpene abundant in the peels and essential oils of citrus fruits.
Limonene may contain anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, and other beneficial properties. 

However, scientific evidence supporting Limonene's use in treating ulcerative colitis (UC), viral illnesses, cancer, and other conditions is lacking.
Limonene is a chemical found in the peels of citrus fruits and in other plants. 
Limonene is a colorless liquid with a pleasant, lemon-like odor that can be found in the rind of citrus fruits. 

Perfumers use limonene to impart its unique scent or flavor in a variety of everyday products.
Limonene is a monoterpene and chemical constituent found in many plants, notably citrus fruits such as lemon (d-limonene is highly concentrated in the oil) and pine trees or species of the mint family (l-limonene). 

In cosmetics and skin care, limonene is primarily used as a fragrant ingredient and solvent.
Topically, limonene can cause sensitivity and is best avoided. 
Like most volatile fragrance components, limonene also has strong antioxidant benefits and has also been shown to calm skin; however, when exposed to air these highly volatile antioxidant compounds oxidize and become capable of sensitizing skin.

Also, because of its penetration-enhancing effects on skin, it’s particularly important to avoid products that contain limonene plus other skin sensitizers like denatured alcohol.
Limonene (4-isopropenyl-1-methylcyclohexene) is a chiral cyclic monoterpene, with the molecular formula C10H16.

This chiral compound exists in two isomeric forms, which are stereoisomers; in other words, molecules with the same structure but with different orientations of the same atoms in space. 

The two forms of limonene differ only in the configuration of the groups around a single carbon atom. 
The two forms are mirror images (=enantiomers) of each other that can only be interconverted by breaking and forming covalent bonds.

USES and APPLICATIONS of LIMONENE:
Because limonene has strong scents and flavors, it is used in various ways.
In food products: Limonene is used as a flavoring agent in beverages and chewing gum 
In pharmaceuticals: Limonene is added to help medicinal ointments and creams penetrate the skin

In manufacturing industries: Limonene is used as a fragrance, cleaner (solvent), and an ingredient in water-free hand cleansers
Limonene oil is extracted from the peels of oranges and other citrus fruits to make medicine and is used in perfumes and deodorants, beverages such as tea, and essential oil-infused supplements.

Consumption of limonene is a successful alternative in the treatment of several diseases, triggering beneficial biological effects in clinical and preclinical studies, and seems to possess anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anticancer, and heart-disease-fighting properties.
Limonene is used as a solvent for cleaning purposes, such as adhesive remover, or the removal of oil from machine parts, as it is produced from a renewable source (citrus essential oil, as a byproduct of orange juice manufacture).

Limonene is used as a paint stripper and is also useful as a fragrant alternative to turpentine. 
Limonene is also used as a solvent in some model airplane glues and as a constituent in some paints. 
Commercial air fresheners, with air propellants, containing limonene are used by stamp collectors to remove self-adhesive postage stamps from envelope paper.

Limonene is also used as a solvent for fused filament fabrication based 3D printing.
Printers can print the plastic of choice for the model, but erect supports and binders from High Impact Polystyrene (HIPS), a polystyrene plastic that is easily soluble in limonene.

In preparing tissues for histology or histopathology, D-limonene is often used as a less toxic substitute for xylene when clearing dehydrated specimens. 
Clearing agents are liquids miscible with alcohols (such as ethanol or isopropanol) and with melted paraffin wax, in which specimens are embedded to facilitate cutting of thin sections for microscopy.

Limonene, from orange peel oil, is also combustible and has been considered as a biofuel.
As the main fragrance of citrus peels, Limonene is used in food manufacturing and some medicines, such as a flavoring agent to mask the bitter taste of alkaloids, and as a fragrance in perfumery, aftershave lotions, bath products, and other personal care products.

Limonene is also used as a botanical insecticide.
Limonene is used in the organic herbicides.
Limonene is added to cleaning products, such as hand cleansers to give a lemon or orange fragrance (see orange oil) and for its ability to dissolve oils.

In contrast, Limonene has a piny, turpentine-like odor.
Limonene is used Flavor and fragrance agent in food, beverages, and cosmetics
Limonene is used solvent in cleaning products and industrial applications

Limonene is used precursor in the synthesis of carvone and other chemicals
Limonene is used insecticide and repellent in agriculture
Limonene is also used in chemical synthesis as a precursor to carvone and as a renewables-based solvent in cleaning products.

The less common (-)-isomer has a piny, turpentine-like odor, and is found in the edible parts of such plants as caraway, dill, and bergamot orange plants.
Limonene is used as a solvent for rosin, waxes, rubber; as a dispersing agent for oils, resins, paints, lacquers, varnishes, and in floor waxes and furniture polishes.

Limonene is used to make medicine.
Commonly used for Limonene's lemony fragrance in soaps, shampoos, and other health and cosmetic items. 
Limonene also acts as a flavoring agent in many food products.

Limonene is used for obesity, cancer, and bronchitis, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these uses.
In foods, beverages, and chewing gum, limonene is used as a flavoring.
Found in a vast array of cleaning products, cosmetics, food flavourings and even aromatherapy, Limonene comes in two forms: d-limonene and l-limonene. 

These are like “different handed” versions of the same molecule, with only subtle differences.
The d-limonene form is used in food-grade products, as well as cleaning and beauty products, and is prized mainly for its smell. 
Limonene is also used in hospital laboratories when cleaning tissue samples for analysis.

The l-limonene version has a more pine-like scent but is used mainly as a solvent in industrial cleaning products.
Apart from these well-known uses, researchers now also believe limonene could be used as a dietary supplement to prevent cancer.
It even turns up in some 3D printing processes. 

In the European Union, cosmetics and skin care ingredients with limonene in concentrations above 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products must be declared on the ingredient list instead of just including limonene in the general designation of “fragrance”.
Limonene also has applications in the food industry.

-Common uses of limonene: 
Limonene is a popular additive in foods, cosmetics, cleaning products, and natural insect repellants. 
For example, Limonene’s used in foods like sodas, desserts, and candies to provide a lemony flavor.

Limonene is extracted through hydrodistillation, a process in which fruit peels are soaked in water and heated until the volatile molecules are released via steam, condensed, and separated.

Due to its strong aroma, limonene is utilized as a botanical insecticide. 
Limonene’s an active ingredient in multiple pesticide products, such as eco-friendly insect repellents.

Other household products containing Limonene include soaps, shampoos, lotions, perfumes, laundry detergents, and air fresheners.

Additionally, limonene is available in concentrated supplements in capsule and liquid form. 
These are often marketed for their supposed health benefits.

This citrus compound, Limonene, is also used as an aromatic oil for its calming and therapeutic properties.

Limonene is used in a range of products, including food, cosmetics, and eco-friendly pesticides. 
Limonene can also be found in supplement form, as it may boost health and fight certain diseases.

LIMONENE AT A GLANCE:
Limonene at a Glance
*Monoterpene commonly found in citrus oils
*Primarily used as a fragrance in cosmetics
*Oxidizes when exposed to air
*Can cause skin sensitization

WHAT IS LIMONENE USED FOR?
Limonene is used in a range of products, including food, cosmetics, and eco-friendly pesticides.
Limonene is used as an additive in foods such as sodas, desserts, and candies to provide a lemony flavor.

Limonene has long been used as a naturally occurring, holistic treatment that is used to treat various health ailments and issues such as gallstones, stomach, and digestive problems, weight loss, issues related to inflammation, anxiety, and even cancer prevention.

Creams infused with limonene are shown to be incredibly effective in inflamed and irritated tissues on the skin’s surface. 
Research shows that creams that use high doses of limonene are effective for contact dermatitis, exposure to skin-irritating substances, and other skin issues.

Limonene is one of the most frequent fragrances used in cosmetics formulations.
Limonene is used as a botanical insecticide and eco-friendly insect repellent due to its strong aromatic property.

Some household products containing Limonene include soaps, shampoos, lotions, perfumes, laundry detergents, and air fresheners.
Limonene is used as an aromatic oil for calming, stress-reducing, and therapeutic purposes.

BIOSYNTHESIS OF LIMONENE:
In nature, limonene is formed from geranyl pyrophosphate, via cyclization of a neryl carbocation or its equivalent as shown.
The final step involves loss of a proton from the cation to form the alkene.

PROPERTIES OF LIMONENE:
*Natural hydrocarbon classified as a monoterpene
*Non-polar, hydrophobic compound
*Limonene exhibits antibacterial, antifungal, and antioxidant properties

BENEFITS OF LIMONENE:
*Renewable, derived from citrus fruit peels
*Environmentally friendly alternative to petroleum-based solvents
*Limonene provides pleasant aroma and flavor enhancement
*Potential therapeutic effects, including anti-inflammatory and stress-relief benefits

IN PLANTS, LIMONENE:
Limonene contributes to the characteristic odor of orange peel, orange juice and other citrus fruits.
(+)-Limonene is a major component of the aromatic scents and resins characteristic of numerous coniferous and broadleaved trees: red and silver maple (Acer rubrum, Acer saccharinum), cottonwoods (Populus angustifolia), aspens (Populus grandidentata, Populus tremuloides) sumac (Rhus glabra), spruce (Picea spp.), various pines (e.g., Pinus echinata, Pinus ponderosa), Douglas fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii), larches (Larix spp.), true firs (Abies spp.), hemlocks (Tsuga spp.), cannabis (Cannabis sativa spp.), cedars (Cedrus spp.), various Cupressaceae, and juniper bush (Juniperus spp.).
Limonene contributes to the characteristic odor of orange peel, orange juice and other citrus fruits.
To optimize recovery of valued components from citrus peel waste, (+)-limonene is typically removed.

CHEMICAL REACTIONS OF LIMONENE:
Limonene is a relatively stable monoterpene and can be distilled without decomposition, although at elevated temperatures it cracks to form isoprene.
Limonene oxidizes easily in moist air to produce carveol, carvone, and limonene oxide.

With sulfur, Limonene undergoes dehydrogenation to p-cymene.
Limonene occurs commonly as the (R)-enantiomer, but racemizes at 300 °C. 

When warmed with mineral acid, limonene isomerizes to the conjugated diene α-terpinene (which can also easily be converted to p-cymene). 
Evidence for this isomerization includes the formation of Diels–Alder adducts between α-terpinene adducts and maleic anhydride.

Limonene is possible to effect reaction at one of the double bonds selectively. 
Anhydrous hydrogen chloride reacts preferentially at the disubstituted alkene, whereas epoxidation with mCPBA occurs at the trisubstituted alkene.

In another synthetic method, Markovnikov addition of trifluoroacetic acid followed by hydrolysis of the acetate gives terpineol.
The most widely practiced conversion of limonene is to carvone. 

The three-step reaction begins with the regioselective addition of nitrosyl chloride across the trisubstituted double bond. 
This species is then converted to the oxime with a base, and the hydroxylamine is removed to give the ketone-containing carvone

SEVERAL HEALTH BENEFITS OF LIMONENE:
Limonene has been studied for its potential anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anticancer, and heart-disease-fighting properties.

*Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits
Limonene has been shown to reduce inflammation in some studies.
While short-term inflammation is your body’s natural response to stress and is beneficial, chronic inflammation can harm your body and is a major cause of illness. 

It’s important to prevent or reduce this type of inflammation as much as possible.
Limonene has been shown to reduce inflammatory markers that relate to osteoarthritis, a condition characterized by chronic inflammation.

A test-tube study in human cartilage cells noted that limonene reduced nitric oxide production. 
Nitric oxide is a signaling molecule that plays a key role in inflammatory pathways.

Limonene has demonstrated antioxidant effects as well. 
Antioxidants help reduce cell damage caused by unstable molecules called free radicals.
Free radical accumulation can lead to oxidative stress, which may trigger inflammation and disease.

One test-tube study revealed that limonene may inhibit free radicals in leukemia cells, suggesting a decrease in inflammation and cellular damage that would normally contribute to disease.
Although promising, these effects need to be confirmed by human studies.

*May have anticancer effects
Limonene may have anticancer effects.
In a population study, those who consumed citrus fruit peel, the major source of dietary limonene, had a reduced risk of developing skin cancer compared to those who only consumed citrus fruits or their juices.

Another study in 43 women recently diagnosed with breast cancer experienced a significant 22% reduction in breast tumor cell expression after taking 2 grams of limonene daily for 2–6 weeks.

Additionally, research in rodents found that supplementing with limonene inhibited the growth of skin tumors by preventing inflammation and oxidative stress.

Other rodent studies indicate that limonene may fight other types of cancer, including breast cancer.
Although these results are promising, more human studies are needed.

*May boost heart health
Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the United States, accounting for nearly one in four deaths.
Limonene may lower your risk of heart disease by reducing certain risk factors, such as elevated cholesterol, blood sugar, and triglyceride levels.

WHAT IS LIMONENE USED FOR?
Supplement use should be individualized and vetted by a healthcare professional, such as a registered dietitian, pharmacist, or healthcare provider. 
No supplement is intended to treat, cure, or prevent disease. 
Aside from its household uses, limonene may have some health benefits.

Research on limonene has increased in recent years. However, most studies on limonene's health benefits have been performed on animals or in lab settings. 
Very few human studies exist, which means there is still much to learn about how limonene may work in different people.
Through research, it's become apparent that limonene has several properties that may benefit human health. 

EDIBLE PARTS AND MEDICINAL BENEFITS OF LIMONENE:
*Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Activity
As a terpene, limonene contains chemical substances with known antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity.
Anti-inflammatory substances can help reduce inflammation in the body, while antioxidants help prevent and reduce cell damage.

Due to these properties, limonene has been looked into for its possible effects on health conditions such as neurodegenerative diseases. 
In vitro research shows that limonene's antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities may protect your brain from damage and certain diseases.

It's important that more research be carried out in this area,however. 
Human trials are necessary to learn how limonene supplementation may reduce inflammation and prevent cell damage in humans.

*Anticancer Potential
Some people with cancer choose to use various dietary supplements as complementary treatments to chemotherapy, radiation, and other cancer treatments. 
Limonene has been studied for its potential anticancer properties.
A small number of human studies on limonene's role in breast cancer have been conducted. 

In these studies, limonene supplementation has yet to be found to produce significant benefits in humans with cancer. 
For the most part, though, human studies on this subject have been very small and of poor design, so more research is needed.

*Antiviral Properties
There is some evidence that limonene may have a role in the treatment of viruses like the flu, COVID-19, and herpesvirus.
A laboratory study found that both L- and D-limonene act as a disinfectant against influenza A virus H1N1. 

Limonene was found to be the major component in the essential oil from orange peels and responsible for the antiviral properties displayed in the study.
Other lab research has suggested that limonene has antiviral properties against COVID-19, although much more research is needed.

Limonene has also been found to have a potential role in treating human herpesvirus. 
In an in vivo study, limonene was shown to directly inhibit herpesvirus. 
Limonene was most effective when added to cells just before herpes virus infection.

Research on the role of limonene as an antiviral agent is in the very early stages. 
More research must be conducted to determine if limonene can in fact treat or prevent any viruses in humans.

*Heart Protection
Despite these positive findings, it is essential that more research be conducted, especially in humans, to determine if limonene does indeed have a role in heart health.

5 POTENTIAL HEALTH BENEFITS OF LIMONENE:
Five potential health benefits of limonene include:

*Reduces inflammation (anti-inflammatory):
Some studies report that limonene may help reduce the number of factors connected to chronic inflammation, thus lowering the risk of certain conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, and certain types of cancer.

*Has an antioxidant effect:
Early trials suggest that limonene acts as an antioxidant in the body, absorbing and removing damaging free radicals and unstable molecules before they can injure cells. 
Moreover, dietary limonene may help lower the risk of signs of aging by reducing the amount of oxidative stress on the body.

*Has an anticancer effect:
Research studies on rodents suggested that supplementing with limonene inhibited the growth of skin tumors by preventing inflammation and oxidative stress.
Early research shows that limonene is linked to cancer-killing and tumor growth-inhibiting properties, especially in breast cancer.

*Improves heart health:
Laboratory studies suggest that consuming limonene lowers the risk of heart diseases by reducing triglycerides, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels. 
Limonene promotes an increase in good cholesterol levels and is connected to a lower risk of atherosclerosis and coronary events.

*Decreases stress and anxiety

USES AND EFFECTIVENESS OF LIMONENE:
*Cancer. 
One form of limonene (D-limonene) seems to build up in tumors in people with advanced cancer when it is taken by mouth. 
The high levels of limonene in the tumors may slow down the progress of the cancer, but their effect on the person's survival is uncertain.

*Obesity.
Short-term swelling (inflammation) of the airways in the lungs (acute bronchitis).

*Other conditions.
More evidence is needed to rate the effectiveness of limonene for these uses.

OTHER BENEFITS OF LIMONENE:
Aside from the benefits listed above, limonene may:

*Reduce appetite. 
The scent of limonene has been shown to significantly reduce appetite in blowflies. 
However, this effect has not been studied in humans.

*Decrease stress and anxiety. 
Rodent studies suggest that limonene could be used in aromatherapy as an anti-stress and anti-anxiety agent.

*Support healthy digestion. 
Limonene may protect against stomach ulcers. 

Summary
Limonene may offer antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and anti-heart-disease benefits, among others. 
However, more research in humans is needed.

PHYSICAL and CHEMICAL PROPERTIES of LIMONENE:
Chemical Name: Limonene
Molecular Formula: C10H16
Molecular Weight: 136.24 g/mol
EC Number: 227-813-5
CAS Number: 138-86-3
Appearance: Colorless liquid
Density: ~0.841 g/cm³ at 20°C
Melting Point: -74.35°C
Boiling Point: 176°C
Flash Point: 50°C (closed cup)
Solubility: Insoluble in water, 
soluble in organic solvents (e.g., ethanol, ether)

Odor: Characteristic citrus smell
Chemical formula: C10H16
Molar mass: 136.238 g·mol−1
Appearance: colorless liquid
Odor: Orange
Density: 0.8411 g/cm3
Melting point: −74.35 °C (−101.83 °F; 198.80 K)
Boiling point: 176 °C (349 °F; 449 K)
Solubility in water: Insoluble
Solubility: Miscible with benzene, chloroform, ether, CS2, and oils

Soluble in: CCl4
Chiral rotation ([α]D): 87–102°
Refractive index (nD): 1.4727
Thermochemistry:
Std enthalpy of combustion (ΔcH⦵298): −6.128 MJ mol−1
Molecular Weight: 136.23 g/mol
XLogP3-AA: 3.4
Hydrogen Bond Donor Count: 0
Hydrogen Bond Acceptor Count: 0
Rotatable Bond Count: 1
Exact Mass: 136.125200510 g/mol
Monoisotopic Mass: 136.125200510 g/mol

Topological Polar Surface Area: 0Ų
Heavy Atom Count: 10
Formal Charge: 0
Complexity: 163
Isotope Atom Count: 0
Defined Atom Stereocenter Count: 0
Undefined Atom Stereocenter Count: 1
Defined Bond Stereocenter Count: 0
Undefined Bond Stereocenter Count: 0
Covalently-Bonded Unit Count: 1
Compound Is Canonicalized: Yes

Physical description: A colorless liquid with an odor of lemon.
Boiling point: 352°F
Molecular weight: 136.2
Freezing point/melting point: -40°F
Vapor pressure:
Flash point: 115°F
Vapor density:
Specific gravity: 0.842 at 69.8°F
Ionization potential:
Lower explosive limit (LEL): 0.7%
Upper explosive limit (UEL): 6.1%
NFPA health rating: 2
NFPA fire rating: 2
NFPA reactivity rating: 0

FIRST AID MEASURES of LIMONENE:
-Description of first-aid measures
*General advice:
Show this material safety data sheet to the doctor in attendance.
*If inhaled:
After inhalation: 
Fresh air.
*In case of skin contact: 
Take off immediately all contaminated clothing. 
Rinse skin with
water/ shower.
*In case of eye contact:
After eye contact: 
Rinse out with plenty of water. 
Call in ophthalmologist. 
Remove contact lenses.
*If swallowed:
After swallowing: 
Immediately make victim drink water (two glasses at most). 
Consult a physician.
-Indication of any immediate medical attention and special treatment needed.
No data available

ACCIDENTAL RELEASE MEASURES of LIMONENE:
-Environmental precautions:
Do not let product enter drains.
-Methods and materials for containment and cleaning up:
Cover drains. 
Collect, bind, and pump off spills. 
Observe possible material restrictions. 
Take up dry. 
Dispose of properly. 
Clean up affected area.

FIRE FIGHTING MEASURES of LIMONENE:
-Extinguishing media:
*Suitable extinguishing media:
Carbon dioxide (CO2) 
Foam 
Dry powder
*Unsuitable extinguishing media:
For this substance/mixture no limitations of extinguishing agents are given.
-Further information:
Prevent fire extinguishing water from contaminating surface water or the ground water system.

EXPOSURE CONTROLS/PERSONAL PROTECTION of LIMONENE:
-Control parameters:
--Ingredients with workplace control parameters:
-Exposure controls:
--Personal protective equipment:
*Eye/face protection:
Use equipment for eye protection. 
Safety glasses
*Body Protection:
protective clothing
*Respiratory protection:
Recommended Filter type: Filter A 
-Control of environmental exposure:
Do not let product enter drains.

HANDLING and STORAGE of LIMONENE:
-Conditions for safe storage, including any incompatibilities:
*Storage conditions:
Tightly closed. 
Dry.

STABILITY and REACTIVITY of LIMONENE:
-Chemical stability:
The product is chemically stable under standard ambient conditions (room temperature) .
-Possibility of hazardous reactions:
No data available