Tangerine Peel Oil
Also known as: Tangerine Peel Oil, Citrus reticulata Blanco (Tangerine), Citrus reticulata essential oil
Overview
Tangerine Peel Oil is an essential oil extracted from the peel of the tangerine fruit (*Citrus reticulata*). It is characterized by its high content of d-limonene, a monoterpene responsible for its distinctive citrus aroma. The oil is typically obtained through distillation methods, including hydrodistillation and electromagnetic heat hydrodistillation. Traditionally, it has been used for digestive issues, colds, and coughs. Current research is exploring its neuropsychological effects, particularly its potential antidepressant properties. The oil is also widely used in aromatherapy and as a flavoring agent. The bioactive terpenes, especially d-limonene, have demonstrated biological activity in preclinical studies. While research is emerging, high-quality randomized controlled trials (RCTs) specifically on tangerine peel oil are limited, with most evidence stemming from animal studies and narrative reviews. Evidence from related citrus peel extracts provides some support for its potential benefits.
Benefits
The primary benefit of Tangerine Peel Oil is its antidepressant-like effects, demonstrated in animal models. Inhalation of *C. reticulata* essential oil reduced immobility time in forced swimming and tail suspension tests in reserpine-induced depressed mice, suggesting a reduction in depressive behavior. These effects are associated with increased expression of neurobiological markers related to mood regulation, such as 5-HT1A receptors, glucocorticoid receptors, and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in mouse brain tissue. Secondary benefits, suggested by broader citrus peel extract studies, include potential neuroprotective and cognitive benefits, though direct evidence for tangerine peel oil is limited. These preclinical models suggest potential benefits for depression, but human data are currently lacking. While animal studies show statistically significant behavioral improvements, human clinical effect sizes are not yet established.
How it works
Tangerine Peel Oil's mechanism of action primarily involves the modulation of the serotonergic system through the upregulation of 5-HT1A receptors. It also regulates glucocorticoid receptors, which are implicated in stress hormone pathways. Furthermore, it enhances BDNF expression, promoting neuroplasticity and neuronal survival. These actions primarily affect the central nervous system, particularly hippocampal neurons involved in mood regulation. The known molecular targets include the 5-HT1A receptor, glucocorticoid receptor, and BDNF pathways. Inhalation allows for central nervous system effects, but systemic absorption and pharmacokinetics in humans are not well characterized.
Side effects
Tangerine Peel Oil is generally regarded as safe when used appropriately in aromatherapy or topical applications at proper dilutions. Common side effects include potential mild skin irritation or sensitization if applied undiluted topically. Uncommon side effects (1-5%) may include allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Rare side effects (<1%) have not been reported in the literature. There are no well-documented drug interactions, but caution is advised with CNS-active medications due to its potential serotonergic modulation. Contraindications include avoiding use in individuals with citrus allergies or skin sensitivity. The safety of Tangerine Peel Oil during pregnancy, lactation, and in children has not been well-studied, warranting caution in these populations.
Dosage
The minimum effective dose of Tangerine Peel Oil has not been established for humans; animal studies have used inhalation exposure protocols. Optimal dosage ranges are undefined, but typical aromatherapy doses range from a few drops in diffuser devices. The maximum safe dose is also not established, but excessive inhalation or topical use may cause irritation. In animal models, effects were observed with repeated daily inhalation. For use, the essential oil should be diluted in carrier oils for inhalation or topical application. Volatile compounds are absorbed via the respiratory tract during inhalation. No specific cofactors are identified as required for its activity.
FAQs
Is tangerine peel oil effective for depression in humans?
Evidence is limited to animal models; human clinical trials are needed to confirm its effectiveness for depression in humans.
Can it be used safely in aromatherapy?
Yes, it can be used safely in aromatherapy when properly diluted and with caution in sensitive individuals to avoid potential skin irritation or allergic reactions.
How quickly might benefits appear?
Animal studies suggest benefits may appear after days of repeated exposure; however, human data are lacking, and the time course in humans is unknown.
Are there any drug interactions?
No known major interactions have been documented, but caution is advised when using it with serotonergic drugs due to its potential to modulate serotonin levels.
Research Sources
- https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/1934578X221093916 – This preclinical RCT in mice with reserpine-induced depression found that inhalation of *Citrus reticulata* essential oil significantly reduced depressive-like behaviors. The study also showed increased hippocampal neuron counts and upregulated expression of 5-HT1A, GR, and BDNF, suggesting a potential mechanism for its antidepressant effects.
- https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/14/9/1847 – This narrative review on citrus peels and brain health suggests that citrus peel extracts may offer neuroprotective and cognitive benefits. These benefits are possibly due to antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, but the review notes that direct evidence specifically for tangerine peel oil is limited.
- https://www.mdpi.com/2304-8158/13/5/677 – This methodological study focuses on essential oil extraction and demonstrates that a novel electromagnetic heat hydrodistillation method improves the yield and quality of tangerine peel essential oil. While the study provides valuable insights into extraction techniques, it does not include clinical data on the efficacy of the oil.
