From folk medicine to functional food: a review on the bioactive components and pharmacological properties of citrus peels.

Citrus peels, which are an environmental menace in many developing countries have been in use in folk medicine for the management of some degenerative conditions, though there was limited information on the mechanism of such medicinal properties. These medicinal properties also promote the peels as functional foods; since they are generally regarded as safe and are consumed in some countries in forms of candies, wines, infusions and additives. Studies on the mechanisms for the antioxidant, anti-diabetic, cardioprotective, neuroprotective and anticancer activities of the peels have established the intereaction with some key enzymes relevant to the management of such diseases. The phenolic compounds and volatile compounds which have been linked with the biological activities of the peels have been characterized. This review looks at the bioactive compounds of citrus peels and the mechanisms for the biological activities of the peels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]