The poison that smells like oranges is Carbolic acid which is a sweet smelling clear liquid and is added to several different products.
Another chemical that smells like oranges is Limonene.
Limonene, a compound of the terpene family, is present in the essential oil of citrus peel.
The limonene structure has a chiral center, and thus it is found in nature as two enantiomers the (R)- and (S)-limonene. Isomer (R)- has the characteristic smell of oranges, while the (S)- smells like lemons.
Limonene is a colorless liquid aliphatic hydrocarbon classified as a cyclic monoterpene, and is the major component in the essential oil of citrus fruit peels.
The-isomer, occurring more commonly in nature as the fragrance of oranges, is a flavoring agent in food manufacturing.
d-Limonene has been designated as a chemical with low toxicity based upon lethal dose (LD50) and repeated-dose toxicity studies when administered orally to animals.
However, skin irritation or sensitizing potential was reported following widespread use of this agent in various consumer products.
Ingestion of Limonene compound may cause abdominal burning, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dysuria, hematuria, unconsciousness, shallow respiration, and convulsions.
Inhalation of this type of compound may cause dizziness, rapid and shallow breathing, tachycardia, bronchial irritation, unconsciousness and convulsions.
Limonene has anti-anxiety activity via adenosine A2A receptor-mediated regulation of dopaminergic and GABAergic neuronal function in the striatum.
While limonene is generally considered safe for most people, it is not without its potential side effects.
Skin irritation, respiratory issues, gastrointestinal problems, interactions with medications, hormonal effects, and allergic reactions are all possible.