Studies on the Metabolism of d-Limonene (p-Mentha-1,8-diene): II. The Metabolic Fate of d-Limonene in Rabbits

Abstract

1. The metabolic fate of d-limonene (p-mentha-1,8-diene) was investigated in the rabbit.

2. Following oral administration of [¹⁴C]d-limonene to three male rabbits, about 72% and 7% of the dose was excreted in urine and faeces during 72 h, respectively.

3. Metabolites isolated from the urine after administration of d-limonene were p-mentha-1,8-dien-10-ol, p-menth-1-ene-8,9-diol, perillic acid, perillic acid 8,9-diol, p-mentha-1,8-dien-10-yl-β-D-glucopyranosiduronic acid and 8-hydroxy-p-menth-1-en-9-yl-β-D-glucopyranosiduronic acid.