Antimicrobial Activity of Limonene

Abstract

Essential oil was extracted with steam distillation from the peels of orange, grape-fruit and lemon. The limonene was quantitatively analysed by thin layer chromatography. The extract from the citrus fruits contained from 90 to 95°O limonene. The effect of limonene on growth and metabolism of Staphylococcus aureus and Aspergillus oryzae were studied. Limonene suppressed growth and oxygen uptake of Staphylococcus aureus but had no effect on Aspergillus oryzae. If these compounds are present as natural constituents of citrus plants, then they may be a good source of both preservative and flavoring agents.