Learning about D-limonene
Most citrus oils contain at least 60% d-limonene. The largest amounts of d-Limonene are found in the citrus oils such as Grapefruit, Orange, Clementine, and Tangerine which contain amounts ranging from 80-95%. Lemon, Mandarin, and Tangelo oils contain amounts ranging from 65-80%.
The Research
Why do we care? Research on d-limonene is significant.
Immunostimulant effects of d-limonene that have been seen in rodent studies include stimulating lymphocyte proliferation (4) increasing the total white blood cell count (5), increasing the number and phagocytic activity of macrophages (1,2), and stimulating antibody production (5). Natural killer cell activity was enhanced in vitro by d-limonene (3).
Using Citrus Oils at Home
Here are a two ways I use citrus essential oils in my daily life for immune support:
1) Kitchen and Bathroom Disinfectant
Clean all kitchen and bathroom surfaces
Ingredients:
20 drops Lemon (Citrus limon)
20 drops Orange (Citrus sinensis)
20 drops Grapefruit (Citrus paradisi)
Directions: Blend essential oils in a 16 oz spray bottle filled with 14 oz of water and 2 oz of white vinegar.Spray freely and wipe with towel or sponge
2) Solid Deodorant
Makes about four 1 oz deodorant tubes.
Ingredients:
1 oz Beeswax
3 oz Jojoba
20 drops Orange (Citrus sinensis)
20 drops Grapefruit (Citrus paradisi)
Tools:
Kitchen scale
Pyrex style large measuring bowl
Medium stove top pot
Glass stirring rod or spoon
Four 1 oz deodorant tubes
Directions:
- Use the Stove Top Melting Method to liquefy and combine the base carriers. (place Pyrex measuring cup in soup pot and fill the pot 1/4 of the way with water. Boil water, add beeswax and jojoba to Pyrex and allow to melt).
- After removing the melted wax from heat, add the essential oils and stir.
- Immediately pour the liquid into the deodorant tubes and cover.
- Allow deodorant to solidify for at least five minutes before applying.