Orange Essential Oil
Posted on 14th Aug 2014
Citrus sinensis
Sweet orange also known as Citrus sinensisbelongs to the family of citrus which are used in aromatherapy as essential oils- these are Mandarin, Lime, Lemon, Grapefruit, Bergamot, Petitgrain, and Neroli. Except for Petitgrain and Neroli, the rest are extracted with oil through their peelings. Oranges just like mandarins are a favorite gift and decoration during Chinese Christmas and New Year because it is believed to be good luck and bringer of good fortune due to its color. The small orange plants are even used as feng shui elements making the energy flow in the house harmonious and positive. Unlike Mandarin oil which is orange in color, Orange oil is pale yellow in color.
Here are some of the ailments and their orange oil remedies (1):
1. Sadness or depression - Just add 3 drops of orange oil to a vaporizer and enjoy the uplifting spirits of the scent. Alternatively, you could mix 3 drops of this oil into a pint or 500mL of water and put it in a spray bottle or atomizer. Spray it to the area as you wish.
2. Lack of appetite - Vaporize three drops of orange oil in the dining or kitchen area.
3. Orange Essential Oil- Add 3 drops of this oil to a teaspoon of carrier oil and gently massage in upward circular motion the area where there’s cellulites. If the area is below the knee, massage starting from the ankle up to the knee. If the cellulite’s below the buttocks, start from behind the knee up to the affected area.
Some words of caution. Do not confuse the orange oil with Neroli and Petitgrain oils which are taken from orange as well but on a different tree part (Neroli is from the flowers, Petitgrain is from the leaves and stalks). Keep the oil refrigerated to prolong its shelf life to about a year. Also, avoid using this oil during baths as it could irritate your skin and mucous membranes.
Do visit our store at 2W 14th St. New York, NY for a wide selection of essential oils and aromatherapy candles. See you there!
Reference:
(1) Bowles, E.J. (2003). The A to Z of Essential Oils What They Are Where They Come From How They Work. NY: Barron’s Educational Series, Inc.