Citrus Limonoids

Limonin and nonmilin research shows that these chemicals can inhibit development of carcinogen-induced tumors in animals models for cancer of the stomach, oral cavitiy, skin, lung and colon.

Cell culture work has shown that limonoids can inhibit the growth of human breast cancer cells. The data from this work indicated that limonoids might ve used to treat some forms of cancer.

Studies with animals and with cells grown in culture indicated that limonin mifht be contributing to the cholesterol-lowering action of citrus juices.

Limonoid Glucosides

Commercial interst in citrus limonoids has concentrated on the limonoids glucosides.

Glucosides are tasteless and soluble in water and are safe for human consumption since they are already present in citrus fruits and products in large amounts.

Glucosides can be prepared from by-products from juice processing plants (seeds and citrus molasses).

Citrus Consumption and Cancer Prevention

Over 20 epidemiological studies have shown that the consumption of citrus is protective against many cancers in humans:

oral, cavity, larynx, esophagus, stomach, lung, pancreas, colon, & rectum

Originally, htis protective effect was thought to be due to vitamin C. However, in some studies, citrus consumption was shown to be more closely linked to cancer risk reduction than vitamin C from other sources.

The conclusion was that citrus fruits contain several chemicals with cancer chemopreventative properties.

This information was provided by:
Dr. Edward Miller
Baylor College Of Dentistry
3302 Gaston
Dallas, TX 77840

Dr. Bhimu Patil
Vegetable & Fruit Improvement Center
1500 Research Pkway, Suite A120
College Station, TX 77845