Bioactive Compounds and Biological Activities of Kumquat (Fortunella spp.)

Abstract

Kumquat (Fortunella spp.), is called "the little gems of the citrus family", belongs in the genus Fortunella of the Rutaceae family. Kumquat is known native to China. It is widely cultıvated in China, Japan and America. Recent studies have been reported that kumquat fruit possesses health promoting effects duo to its bioactive compounds including ascorbic acid, carotenoids, essential oil, dietary fiber and flavonoids. The fruit can be consumed as fresh and also processed into different products such as; jam, marmalade, wine, liqueur, fruit tea etc. Its essential oil and extracts can be used in food, pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries. Since the health benefits of kumquat fruits were understood, its cultivation and production have been increased in Turkey in recent years. In present study, the studies on the bioactive compounds and biological activities of kumquat fruit are reviewed.