United States
New Zealand
I have extended family who live in the Bay of Plenty and Poverty Bay. Whenever I visit, I am reminded of what it is to be surrounded by abundant fresh fruit and veges.
Tomatoes and watermelons on roadside stands with large painted signage. Gizzy citrus captures the sun’s energy and turns it into a vitamin C-rich treat for us. Avocados fall from giant trees, chocker full of healthful fatty acids and antioxidants. Fruiting figs waiting to be paired with basil and buffalo burrata - delicious!
I leave for Dunedin with a suitcase packed to the brim, trying not to look weighed down as I pass the Air New Zealand crew while lambasting my relatives for taking their lemon trees for granted.
Dunedin is not a citrus-friendly place with our harsh winter frosts; however, I live by the sea now, and the ocean currents scare Mr Frost away. Optimistically, I have planted potted lemon and lime trees and am most excited to celebrate my tiny lime beginnings. Soon, I will be able to celebrate with a lime-infused mojito. Dunedin does grow good mint. I promise to share the occasion with you.
Alcohol aside, citrus contains a range of aromatic compounds. Crushing and inhaling the vapour will cause some of these compounds to enter your bloodstream. This adds a whole new dimension to nature walks! If you have smelt cannabis before, you will be familiar with the pungency of terpenes. The good news is that those terpenes are found in many plants, including citrus.
The most abundant citrus terpene is limonene which creates a bright, citrusy aroma and is known for its uplifting and mood-boosting effects. It is also anti-inflammatory and has antioxidant properties.
𝛃-Pinene is the pine forest terpene, also found in citrus and recommended as therapeutic in forest bathing, the Japanese practice of inhaling forest air for mental health. 𝛃-Pinene also has bronchodilator and anti-inflammatory effects.
γ-Terpinene adds a complex, herbal, and slightly woody note to the citrus aroma. It's been studied for its potential antioxidant and antimicrobial properties.
Citral is a combination of two terpenes, geranial and neral. It contributes to limes' strong citrus scent and has been studied for its potential antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects.
I am not only excited about my limes for their mojito potential. We have two Callaghan interns this year, and one of them, Mat, is supporting us in developing a new sleep product. We are experimenting with terpenes (and other compounds) and how to make them more stable to keep you relaxed through the night if you have insomniac tendencies. More on that in the new year!
In the meantime, if you live up north and take your citrus for granted, take a moment, rub some leaves or fruit and inhale the plant’s richness; you never know where that may take you!