Limonene: The Bright Spirit of Citrus
C₁₀H₁₆ • Monoterpene
Limonene isn't just a molecule — it's the scent of summer peeling itself open in your hands. It's the sharp tang of a lemon rind zested into a pot of tea. But under that cheerful aroma lies one of nature's most fascinating chemical stories — a shape-shifter, a protector, and a paradox of health and hazard.
Therapeutic Areas
Natural Sources
Key Research Insights
Comprehensive Research Database
22 peer-reviewed studies exploring limonene's therapeutic potential across multiple conditions
Safety Profile & Considerations
Understanding both the benefits and the boundaries of limonene use
Safety Advantages
- Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) by FDA
- Used safely in foods and cosmetics for decades
- No human carcinogenicity concerns
- Well tolerated in clinical trials up to 8 g/m²/day
- Favorable toxicity profile compared to synthetic alternatives
Important Considerations
- Industrial solvent at high concentrations
- Can be irritating in pure form
- Dose-dependent effects - context matters
- Male rat kidney tumors (not applicable to humans due to α2u-globulin mechanism)
- Potential skin sensitization with repeated exposure
The Paradox of Natural Medicine
The same molecule that lifts your mood in aromatherapy can strip paint at industrial concentrations. This paradox reminds us that natural doesn't always mean harmless - dose, context, and purity matter immensely.
Dose-Response Relationship
Explore More Research
Dive deeper into our comprehensive database of terpene research and discover more natural compounds with therapeutic potential.