Phytochemistry and biological activities of Citrus sinensis and Citrus limon: an update

• Published in: Journal of herbal medicine 2023-09, Vol.41, p.100737, Article 100737
• Main Authors: Zahr, Sarah, Zahr, Rayan, El Hajj, Rana, Khalil, Mahmoud
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Anticancer; Antimicrobial; Antioxidant; Citrus; Phytochemical
• ISSN: 2210-8033
• DOI: 10.1016/j.hermed.2023.100737

Citrus is among the main tree crops cultivated worldwide, with orange and lemon being well-known species. In this review, a thorough investigation of the literature was conducted to compare the phytochemistry of sweet orange and lemon fruits and reveal their nutritional and health implications. This review gives a thorough and critical evaluation of the composition and traditional medical uses of Citrus sinensis and Citrus limon with their pertinent bioactivity. Electronic databases such as Science Direct, Google Scholar, PubMed, Scopus, Wiley Online Library, and ClinicalTrials.gov were the main sources for selecting similar articles by using search phrases related to the composition and pharmaceutical uses of C sinensis and C limon. C sinensis and C limon are health-promoting fruits rich in secondary metabolites and vitamins. Significant distinctive qualitative and quantitative phytochemical profiles were reported. Oranges and lemons are considered potential sources of antioxidant agents scavenging free radicals and preventing their degenerative effects because of polyphenols, flavonoids, limonoids, carotenoids, and vitamin C. Additionally, different parts of oranges and lemons have shown efficiency against various pathogenic bacteria, fungi, and cancer. An updated summary of C sinensis and C limon bioactive compounds content, antioxidant, antibacterial, antifungal, and anticancer activities is provided to help further studies discover chemicals critical for therapeutic usage. However, more pharmacological research is necessary to assess the safety, efficacy, and optimal dosage of citrus phytochemicals. [Display omitted] •Citrus sinensis and Citrus limon are good sources of secondary metabolites.•Significant distinctive phytochemical profile is reported for each species.•C sinensis and C limon are used in traditional medicine.•Oranges and lemons exhibit antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anticancer activities.•C sinensis and C limon are promising candidates for developing new drugs.