Summary: | The Rutaceae family includes various species of citrus, with a significant percentage of citrus peel considered waste. These peels contain natural compounds, such as phenolic compounds and carotenoids, that have been found to enhance health. Consequently, multiple studies have been conducted to identify the beneficial phytochemicals present in citrus peels, including those from Citrus limon, Citrus sinensis, and Citrus hystrix. However, limited research has been carried out to compare these three citrus peels’ antioxidant and phytochemical content. This study aims to review existing research on the antioxidant and phytochemical contents of the peels of these three citrus species. Information was gathered from electronic databases, including Science Direct, Scopus, and Web of Science, from 2016 to 2021. The results indicated that the peels of Citrus limon, Citrus sinensis, and Citrus hystrix exhibited different levels of antioxidant activity, such as the ability to scavenge free radicals and ferric-reducing antioxidant power. Additionally, the phytochemical contents, such as tannin, saponin, TPC, and TFC, showed varying amounts among the three citrus peels. These differences can be attributed to the bioactive compounds present in each peel, as well as the solvent and extraction method used. Despite the variations in antioxidant activity and phytochemical content, these findings suggest that citrus peels are beneficial and have the potential to serve as natural antioxidants. However, further research is necessary to fully realise the benefits of these peels. © 2023 UMT Press. All Rights Reserved.
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