Petitgrain essential oil has a strong, fresh aroma of orange blossoms, although more citrus than floral, combined with a woody-herbaceous and bitter undertone.
Petitgrain Essential Oil
Citrus aurantium
Petitgrain essential oil is extracted from the leaves, twigs, and sometimes flowers of the orange tree. The name petitgrain is derived from the original practice of extracting the oil from young, green oranges that were the size of peas.
Variations of Petitgrain Oil
Although petitgrain essential oil is typically distilled from orange trees, variations may be distilled from mandarin, lime, or other citrus trees. These variations each have their own distinct aroma, often characteristic of the fruit borne by the tree.
Benefits of Petitgrain Essential Oil
Petitgrain essential oil contains antiseptic, anti-spasmodic, antidepressant, nervine and sedative properties. It is used primarily in the perfume and cosmetics industries due to its ability to maintain the moisture and oil balance of the skin and its antiseptic effectiveness in treating acne and pimples. Antiseptic properties of petitgrain essential oil also make it an ideal ingredient in soap and deodorant products because of its ability to curb bacteria growth and body odour while leaving a fresh, citrusy, floral scent.
Petitgrain essential oil is known as an effective nerve tonic as it soothes and strengthens the nerves and the nervous system. It can function well as a sedative as it promotes nerve health and helps calm anxiety and irritations that contribute to insomnia. The scent of petitgrain essential oil is also uplifting and can help overcome depressive moods, anxiety and stress.
Therapeutic Properties of Petitgrain Essential Oil
Buying Petitgrain Essential Oil
Typically, Petitgrain essential oil sells for around $20 per ounce.
Petitgrain Blends Well With...
Any of the similar essential oils, plus Grapefruit, Frankincense, Bergamot, Geranium, Jasmine, Rose, Palmarosa, Sandalwood, Ylang Ylang, Lavender
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Sources
Essential Oil Safety
The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Essential Oils
Essential Oils: A Handbook for Aromatherapy Practice
Aromatherapy for Healing the Spirit
Aromatherapy and the Mind
The Aromatherapy Workbook