Limonene

Limonene is a colorless liquid hydrocarbon classified as a cyclic terpene. It is commonly found in the essential oils of citrus fruits and is used in a wide variety of products due to its pleasant aroma and flavor. The chemical formula of limonene is C10H16, and it has a molecular weight of 136.23 g/mol.

Chemical Properties

Limonene is a chiral molecule, which means that it exists in two different mirror-image forms known as enantiomers. The most common enantiomer found in nature is the (R)-(-)-limonene, which is responsible for the characteristic smell of lemons and oranges. The (S)-(+)-limonene enantiomer, on the other hand, is found in certain species of pine trees and has a more pine-like scent. Limonene is highly soluble in organic solvents such as ethanol, ether, and chloroform, but only slightly soluble in water. It has a boiling point of 176 °C and a melting point of -74 °C.

Uses

Limonene has a wide range of applications in various industries, including food, cosmetics, and cleaning products. In the food industry, limonene is used as a flavoring agent in beverages, chewing gum, and candy. It is also used as a solvent for extracting flavors and fragrances from natural sources. In the cosmetics industry, limonene is used as a fragrance in perfumes, lotions, and shampoos. It is also used as a solvent for dissolving oils and waxes in skincare products. Limonene is also used in cleaning products due to its ability to dissolve grease and oil. It is a common ingredient in household cleaners, degreasers, and industrial solvents. Aside from its commercial uses, limonene also has some medicinal properties. It is used as a natural remedy for heartburn, acid reflux, and indigestion. Limonene is also being studied for its potential anticancer and anti-inflammatory properties.

Safety

Limonene is generally recognized as safe by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and is approved for use as a food additive. However, it can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions in some individuals. Ingesting large amounts of limonene can also cause gastrointestinal discomfort. Limonene is also a mild skin irritant and can cause eye irritation if it comes into contact with the eyes. It is important to handle limonene with care and to wear protective equipment such as gloves and safety goggles when working with it.

See also

• Terpene
• Essential oil
• Citrus
• Fragrance oil