Citrus Fruits as Sustainable Sources of Bioactive Molecules

Citrus fruits represent a rich source of bioactive compounds with remarkable nutritional and therapeutic value. Their abundance of flavonoids, phenolic acids, vitamins, and antioxidant constituents has attracted significant scientific interest due to their diverse biological activities and protective effects against chronic diseases. Recent investigations have highlighted the role of citrus-derived compounds in modulating oxidative stress, inflammation, lipid metabolism, endothelial dysfunction, and metabolic disorders, including diabetes and diabetic cardiomyopathy. Moreover, citrus phytochemicals exhibit promising neuroprotective, anticancer, cardioprotective, and dermatological properties. Advances in metabolomic and phytochemical analyses have further enhanced the understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying these health benefits. This compilation explores the antioxidant constituents, phytochemical diversity, and therapeutic potential of citrus fruits, emphasizing their importance as functional foods and promising natural agents in disease prevention and health promotion.