What’s the big deal with Limonene?
If you’re a fan of citrus essential oils, like Lemon and Lime, you’ve probably heard of limonene. Limonene is a cyclic monoterpene found in several essential oils. A cyclic monoterpene is a molecule with a backbone of 10 carbons atoms, some of which form a ring. Limonene plays a big part in the chemistry of some of your favorite essential oils. From its cleansing properties to its ability to support various body systems when taken internally, limonene has a lot to offer.
Grapefruit and Tangerine oils are almost entirely made up of the constituent limonene—99 percent to be exact. Lemon also possesses a large amount of other terpene compounds in addition to limonene. Why does this high concentration of limonene matter? It plays a role in the detoxifying and purifying benefits of the oils. This is why all three of these oils are excellent in homemade cleaning products, because they both cleanse, and also help minimize exposure to potentially harmful toxins found in store-bought products.
But the benefits of limonene do not end there. According to experimental and clinical research, limonene may help support the function of a long list of bodily systems when taken internally.* These include healthy cellular function, the immune system, the lung and respiratory systems, the gastrointestinal system, a healthy metabolism, and a healthy colon and liver.* If you look at a diagram of each of these systems, you will quickly realize just how much of an impact citrus oils can have over a large portion of your body.* And in addition to being in citrus oils, limonene is also in Black Pepper, Celery Seed, Spearmint, and Dill essential oils.
Research studies have looked into the many benefits of limonene. Check out the list below to learn more.
Topical Use Benefits:
Internal Use Benefits:
May be soothing to the gastrointestinal system.*
May support liver health and metabolism.*
Experimental research has demonstrated that ingestion of limonene may support the body’s immune system.*
Using Limonene
To take advantage of the many benefits of limonene, try some of these uses.
Make your own all-purpose cleaner by adding a few drops of Green Mandarin, Grapefruit, or another citrus oil to a glass spray bottle filled with water and some white vinegar.
Add a drop or two of Lemon, Wild Orange, Lime, or Grapefruit essential oil to a glass of water, tea, or another favorite drink for a citrus twist.
Add a drop of Lemon, Spearmint, or Wild Orange essential oil to your toothpaste for an added burst of teeth-cleaning power.
Beyond Cleansing
Limonene is one of many amazing molecules that plays a role in the powerful benefits essential oils have to share. Limonene has so much to offer, making citrus essential oils a must in any home.
* These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.