Can you guess where you might find limonene?
It’s no surprise that this terpene is most commonly found in the peels of citrus fruits. Limonene has a clean, bright, uplifting smell that can be found in everything from beauty products to desserts. It’s commonly used in foods, often as a zest, to add a burst of lemony flavor. The refreshing scent makes it a great addition to household cleaning products, candles, or air fresheners.
Citrus fruits have been used in homeopathic medicine for centuries. Limonene is believed to help elevate mood and restore energy, making it a popular component of many essential oils. Animal studies show that limonene may boost serotonin and dopamine pathways and that it has strong anti-stress and anti-inflammatory characteristics and antibacterial qualities. Emerging research even supports the potential anti-cancer effects of limonene.
When used in aromatherapy, essential oils that contain limonene are believed to help ease the symptoms of anxiety and depression, stress, inflammation and even the common cold.
Hungry for Terpenes?
Experiment with some of these limonene-rich ingredients:
- Juniper
- Peppermint
- Rosemary
- Dill
- Mint
- Sage
- Celery
- Cardamom
Feel, live and taste the ways you can benefit from limonene!
Feel
Limonene works well as a topical against acne due to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Be careful to dilute it with a carrier oil, such as jojoba or coconut oil, before applying it directly to your skin.
Live
You can use herbs and citrus fruits rich in limonene to make home-made, chemical-free insect repellant for your garden plants. Limonene is also a main component of citronella, a common natural mosquito repellant.
Taste
Need a pick-me-up? Try adding some citrus to your water or tea for an extra detoxifying and mood-elevating boost. It can also help relieve mild heartburn or digestive reflux.
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