Orange, Bitter

Product Details

Botanical name

Citrus aurantium amara or Citrus bigardia

Extraction method / Source

Peel of the fruit is Cold Pressed -- Pressing without heat preserves the aromatic and therapeutic qualities of the oil.

Aroma

Dry, bitter/sweet citrus with woody undertones

Note classification

Top

Odor Intensity

1

Key constituents

Limonene, myrcene, camphene, pinene, ocimene, cymene and several trace constituents

Plant description

Botanical family: Rutaceae (citrus)

Bitter Orange is an evergreen tree native to Africa, Syria and Arabia. It produces dark green leaves and highly fragrant white blossoms which develop into small orange fruits with bitter pulp. Bitter orange trees were brought to Europe in the 13th Century by traders, and the trees are now grown extensively in China, India and the USA.

Regions of Production

India, Italy

Growing Practices

Trees cultivated without the use of chemical fertilizers or pesticides

History / Fun Facts

A key constituent of Bitter Orange essential oil is limonene. Limonene has been studied extensively for its properties which retard tumor growth. Three very different essential oils are made fron the bitter orange tree, which is also known as Seville orange. Neroli is distilled from the fresh blossoms, Bitter Orange is pressed from the peel of the fruit, and Petitgrain is distilled from the leaves and twigs. Bitter Orange essential oil is used as a fragrance in soaps and skin and hair products, and as a flavoring for teas, pharmaceuticals, liqueurs and confections.

Properties

Anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, antispasmodic, astringent, anti-tumoral, bactericidal, carminative, deodorant, digestive, fungicidal, stimulant, stomachic

Please refer to the Glossary for terms which may be new to you.

Uses / Benefits

Recommended for treating colds, influenza and sore throat. Relieves constipation and flatulence. Useful for managing oily skin. Helps reduce fluid retention. Recommended for relief of nervous tension.

Suggestion: Substitute Bitter Orange for Sweet Orange in a blend if you wish to avoid the sweetness found in Sweet Orange.

Fragrant influences

Calming, refreshing.

Modes of Administration

Inhalation: Diffusion, Direct inhalation, often used in a nasal inhaler

Blends well with

Bay, Black Pepper, all citrus oils, Clary Sage, Ginger, Lavender, Myrrh, Neroli, Vetiver

Safety

May irritate sensitive skin. May make skin sun-sensitive or cause darkening of the skin when exposed to sunlight. Avoid using during pregnancy and for small children.

Notice

This information is for educational purposes only. It has not been evaluated by the US Food and Drug Administration. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any condition or disease. Although we strive to provide information which is accurate and up to date, we cannot guarantee the accuracy or completeness of this information.

Precautions

Pure essential oils are highly concentrated plant extracts. Do not use them undiluted, or in the eyes or mucus membranes. If applying an essential oil to the skin, always dilute it with a proper carrier oil and test on a small patch of skin before applying to a large area. Do not take them internally except under the direction of a qualified professional trained in Aromatherapy. Always familiarize yourself with the safety, contraindications and proper preparation of each essential oil before use. Note that when using essential oils for children and the elderly, very low concentrations should be used. Keep all essential oils away from children and pets.

References

TIMELESS Essential Oils guarantees the purity and quality of all our therapeutic oils. The current Certificate of Analysis is available upon request. All essential oils are best stored in an airtight container away from heat and light.