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Petitgrain Essential Oil
(Citrus aurantium)
Therapeutic Grade Natural Source
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From Ananda Aromatherapy, pure essential oil steam distilled from the leaves of the bitter orange tree, naturally grown in Italy. This is a very high grade Petitgrain that can be substituted
for Neroli in many uses.
What makes Ananda's oils different? Learn about our conscientious selection process here... |
Petitgrain
essential oil at one time was extracted from small, green unripe bitter oranges the size of a cherry - hence the name 'peititgrain' or 'little grain'. This soon proved to be uneconomical as the production of this oil diminished the yield of bitter orange oil from the mature fruit later in the season. Today the oil is is distilled from the fresh leaves and young branches of the tree. This same tree yields Bergamot oil (pressed from the ripe bitter orange peels) and Neroli (distilled from the blossoms). Distillation of neroli and petitgrain essential oil can be undertaken at the same time - As the trees in full flower are trimmed, the blossoms are separated from the stems and leaves.
Petitgrain oil is a pale yellow liquid with a wonderful bright floral orange scent, with a woody undertone - though not as sweet, for example, as Sweet Orange
essential oil. Petitgrain aroma is uplifting and helps to refresh the senses, clear confusion and reduce mental fatigue.
Petitgrain essential oil has been traditionally used in aromatherapy for acne, excessive perspiration, greasy skin and hair, and general toning of the skin. It is non-photosensitising like other
citrus oils can be. Petitgrain essential oil may also help dyspepsia and flatulence; further, it may support the nervous system in cases of insomnia, nervous exhaustion and other stress-related
conditions.
Oils from the bitter orange tree are generally relaxing and strengthening. With Neroli, the fresh, comforting floral aroma inspires courage, quiet resolve and happiness. Petitgrain inspires strength and commitment. Its fresh, woody aroma is stabilizing and reassuring.
Neroli and petitgrain together make a wonderful blend; the neroli adds the quintessential floral note to the already lovely petitgrain aroma. Individuals who are sad and lacking confidence may find this blend to be gently inspiring. For a mister, combine 20 drops of neroli and 20 drops of petitgrain with 4-8 ounces of water. Place the mix in a bottle with a spray bottle. Shake the bottle, then lightly mist the face or your surroundings and inhale the aroma.
This blend can also be used in a diffuser, or diluted in a carrier oil and used as an uplifting massage blend.
Petitgrain essential oil is one of the classic ingredients in 'eau-de-cologne', and is often employed as a fragrance component in perfumes, colognes, cosmetics and the like, and can be used to add
an orange flavor to many foods. In some cases, the aroma is used instead of it's more expensive partner Neroli. |
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Suggested
Uses: |
Diffuse, dilute to
10% and apply topically. |
| Possible Actions: |
Has traditionally been used as an anti-infectious, antibacterial
(coli bacteria), anti-parasitic, nerve tonic, digestive tonic, anti-depressive, antihypertensive - as well
as a beautiful and simple fragrance. |
Possible
Indications: |
Can offer support for the digestive system in cases
of certain infections and upset due to nervous tension. May help Calms other stress-related conditions. May
relieve menstrual discomfort. |
| Cautions: |
Always test a small amount first for sensitivity or allergic reaction. If
pregnant or under a doctor's care, consult a physician. |
Blends and
Recipes: |
Blends well with: Cedarwood
Oil, Geranium Oil, Jasmine
Oil, Lavender Oil, Lemon
Oil, Rose Oil, and Sandalwood
Oil. |
About
Ananda Aromatherapy
Essential Oils: |
All oils from Ananda Aromatherapy are therapeutic grade,
meaning they are produced to the highest quality standards possible. Our essential oils are
chosen for their integrity (all chemical constituents important for aromatherapy are intact), ecological
'soundness' (most are organic or wild grown), and wonderful
aromas. You may order a sample of any oil before trying larger amounts. Most samples are about .75ml; exotic oils such as Melissa, Rose, Angelica and Jasmine are only a few drops, but certainly enough to enjoy their aroma! |