OPTIMIZATION OF ESSENTIAL OIL EXTRACTION FROM LEMON (CITRUS LIMON) PEELS USING SOXHLET APPARATUS WITH ETHANOL AS SOLVENT

This study focuses on the extraction and optimization of essential oil from lemon (Citrus limon) peels using the Soxhlet extraction method with ethanol as the solvent. Lemon peels, often discarded as waste from juice processing, are rich in valuable bioactive compounds, particularly limonene, which has wide applications in food, cosmetics, and pharmaceutical industries. The research aims to evaluate the effect of extraction conditions, especially time, on the yield and quality of the oil, as well as to perform phytochemical screening of the extract. Fresh lemon peels were prepared, dried, and subjected to Soxhlet extraction under controlled conditions. The results showed a relatively high oil yield of 76–77% under optimized conditions, indicating the efficiency of ethanol as a solvent. The extracted oil exhibited characteristic color and aroma, confirming the presence of essential oil components. Phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of bioactive compounds such as flavonoids, tannins, saponins, alkaloids, terpenoids, and phenols, which contribute to the oil’s medicinal and industrial value. The study demonstrates that lemon peel waste can be effectively converted into valuable essential oil, supporting environmental sustainability and waste-to-wealth initiatives. The findings highlight the potential of Soxhlet extraction as a viable and efficient method for essential oil recovery, while encouraging further research into improved, eco-friendly extraction techniques.