Chemical Content and Pharmacology of Sweet Orange (Citrus sinensis) Fruit Peel: A Review

Abstract

The sweet orange (Citrus sinensis) fruit peel is one of the often overlooked part of the sweet orange plant. However, recent research indicates that sweet orange peel possesses various bioactive properties and intriguing health benefits. The purpose of this article is to provide a comprehensive overview of the chemical compounds, pharmacological activities, and potential development of sweet orange peel, serving as an introduction to further research. Sweet orange peel contains a variety of chemical compounds, including essential oils, flavonoids, carotenoids, steroids, terpenoids, alkane groups, and ethyl esters. These chemical compositions confer antioxidant properties to sweet orange peel, which can protect the body from oxidative damage caused by free radicals. In vivo and in vitro studies have demonstrated that sweet orange peel extracts exhibit strong antioxidant activity and may aid in preventing degenerative diseases such as cancer. Additionally, sweet orange peel shows potential antimicrobial activity. Certain compounds in sweet orange peel have proven effective against various types of bacteria and pathogenic fungi.