Biological dynamics and application prospects of Citri Reticulatae Pericarpium (CRP): a medicine and food perspective review

Citri Reticulatae Pericarpium (CRP) is a plant widely used in medicine and food in China, offering extensive health-promoting benefits. Consequently, it plays a pivotal role in the healthcare sector and exhibits a variety of clinical effects, including anti-inflammatory, anticancer, cardiovascular protective, intestinal regulatory, and lipid-lowering activities. Its efficacy is attributed to a diverse range of chemical components. However, variations in geographical origin, storage duration, aging time, and harvesting period can lead to changes in these chemical constituents, thereby influencing the final flavor and commercial value of CRP. Currently, research in this field remains relatively fragmented. Therefore, this review summarizes the dynamic changes and mechanisms of action of the major bioactive metabolites in CRP based on these different factors. Concurrently, it analyzes the microbial activity and safety of the dominant strain, Aspergillus spp., and elaborates on the development and application prospects of CRP-derived products. The objective is to enhance the medicinal value of CRP in clinical therapy, explore its optimal flavor profile for food applications, and deepen its potential in innovative healthcare and daily chemical products. This work aims to promote the high-quality development of the CRP industry and propose further research directions for the innovative development and application of CRP-based products.