BIOACTIVE COMPOUNDS OF LEMON AND THEIR ROLE IN PREVENTIVE MEDICINE: A COMPREHENSIVE SCIENTIFIC REVIEW
Keywords:
Lemon; Citrus limon; ascorbic acid; bioflavonoids; antioxidant activity; essential oils; immunomodulation; phytochemistry; nutraceuticals; anti-inflammatory effects.Abstract
Lemon (Citrus limon (L.) Burm.f.) is one of the most biologically valuable citrus fruits widely used in traditional medicine, nutrition science, and modern nutraceutical applications. Its phytochemical composition is rich in ascorbic acid, bioflavonoids (including hesperidin and diosmin), organic acids, pectins, essential oils, and various macro- and microelements. These bioactive compounds exhibit potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, hepatoprotective, and immunomodulatory properties. This article provides a comprehensive analysis of the phytochemical profile of lemon, the pharmacological significance of its major bioactive constituents, and its role in preventing oxidative stress–related disorders. Additionally, the paper discusses the potential therapeutic value of lemon-derived formulations in metabolic syndrome, immune dysfunction, chronic inflammation, and stress-associated physiological disturbances. The review highlights current scientific evidence supporting the integration of Citrus limon into modern clinical practice, functional foods, and nutraceutical development.
