Distribuzione dei limonoidi nelle diverse parti del frutto di bergamotto

Distribution of aglyconic and glycosidic limonoids in seeds, albedo (the inner part of the fruit), flavedo (the external part of the fruit), pulp and juice bergamot was eavaluated. Extracted limonoids were characterized by TLC and HPLC analyses. In bergamot seeds a sufficient quantity of aglyconic limonoids was found. In bergamot juice the extent of glycosidic limonoids was from 7 to 19 fold than other citrus species and it was 4 g/Kg, as average value. Regarding the recently reported importance of these substances from the double points of view of prevention of human diseases and their use as natural repellents, by-products from bergamot industries could be a useful and not expensive source for their extraction.