Limonene

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Limonene

MW: 136.23
Formula: C₁₀H₁₆

What is Limonene?

Pure limonene is a clear liquid. Limonene is a monoterpene, made up of two isoprene units. Limonene occurs in two optically active forms, l-limonene and d-limonen. Both isomers have different odours: l-limonene smells piney and turpentine like and d-limonene has a pleasing orange scent.

Distribution

Limonene is found in the essential oils of citrus fruits and many other plant species. Industrial limonene is produced by by alkali extraction of citrus residues and steam distillation. This distillate contains more than 90% d-limonene.

Health Benefits of Limonene

Studies have shown that limonene have anti- cancer effects. Limonen increase the levels of liver enzymes involved in detoxifying carcinogens. The Glutathione S-transferase (GST) is a system which eliminates carcinogens. Limonene seems to promote the GST system in the liver and small bowel, thereby decreasing the damaging effects of carcinogens. Animal studies demonstrated that dietary limonene reduced mammary tumor growth.

Facts about Limonene

Limonene is also used as a solvent and cleaner. It can replace white spirit and other solvents.

Synonyms

Methyl-4-isopropenyl cyclohexene, Cajaputene, Carvene, Cinene, Dipentene, Efchole

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