Antioxidant Compounds and Health Benefits of Citrus Fruits
Omolara Adenaike *
Department of Biological Science, Oduduwa University, Ipetumodu, Osun State, Nigeria.
Grace Onyukwo Abakpa
Department of Environmental Biotechnology and Bioconservation, National Biotechnology, Development Agency (NABDA), Abuja. Nigeria.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Citrus fruits are spread worldwide, grown across the globe and are well- appreciated for their refreshing juice and health benefits. This review aimed at investigating the applied health therapeutic uses of some citrus fruits exploited in the treatment of several health challenges as antitumor, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, antiviral, antimicrobial activities against cardiovascular diseases and macular degeneration. Citrus fruits abilities on the exploited benefits are not far from their rich bioactive compounds and phytochemical contents such as minerals, vitamins, flavonoids and carotenoids. These phytochemicals may act as antioxidants, boosting the action of protective enzymes in the liver, reverse lipid for oxidation of genetic material and improve immune system. We reviewed literature for the antioxidant compounds and health benefits of some citrus fruits (namely, oranges, lime, lemon and grapefruits) from electronic database search obtaining information from research studies and reports. We recommend more research into more varieties of citrus predominantly in the tropics.
Keywords: Bioactive compounds, Citrus fruits, health benefits, phytochemicals, Vitamin C