Citrus Fruits—Morphology, Taxonomy, Composition and Health Benefits

Citrus is the umbrella term used for fruits belonging to family Rise (Rutaceae) which is the largest genus in any fruit family. It is the most traded horticultural product in the world. The economically important species of this genus are lemon, lime, sweet orange, sour orange, tangerine, grapefruit, citren and shaddoch. Among all species, sweet orange is the major fruit crop of this genus accounting for about 70% of total global citrus production. Citrus fruit is one of the top preferred flavours of the world and is valued due to its rich nutritive profile. It is well known that citrus fruits and citrus products are a profuse source of vitamins, minerals, fibre, pectin that are essential for normal functioning of human body. Besides these, some biologically active non-nutrient substances are also present in appreciable amounts which help in smooth functioning of various metabolic processes in body. Open image in new window Order: Sapindales Family: Rutaceae Genus: Citrus Local name: Neembu, Mosumbi, Sangtra