Botanical Overview
Meyer’s citrus (Citrus junos) is a species in the Rutaceae family. The citrus family (Rutaceae) includes trees and shrubs with gland-dotted leaves that release aromatic oils when crushed. The flowers are typically white with four or five petals, and the fruits are often modified berries with a leathery rind. Most species produce alkaloids and limonoids with medicinal activity. Phytochemical data for this species are limited at present.
General Description
Yuzu has been cultivated mainly in East Asia, though it has also recently been grown in New Zealand, Australia, Spain, Italy, and France.
Family Context
The Rutaceae family is primarily tropical and subtropical. Notable medicinal members include:
- Kabusu — 76 documented uses
- Petitgrain — 76 documented uses
- Rue — 54 documented uses
- Orange — 47 documented uses
Active Compounds
Phytochemical research has identified 1 compound in this species: dl-germacrene.
Research Status
Although this species has documented phytochemical constituents, its ethnobotanical and clinical documentation remains incomplete. Additional phytochemical investigation could identify novel bioactive compounds in this plant.