Sweet Orange Essential Oil

Botanical name: Citrus Sinensis

Origin: Mexico

Plant species: There are many different species of citrus sinesis, the sweeter versions are navel, jaffa, and Valencia, which are where sweet orange oils are sourced from

Method of extraction: Cold pressed from the outer skin of the fruit

Benefits

Physical:

Settles digestive system.  Prevents and eases spasms and cramps.  Excellent for constipation, flatulence, diarrhoea and irritable bowel.  Normalises peristaltic actions of intestines.  May be used to improve bile flow and fat metabolism.  Stimulates lymph fluids, which can help with swollen tissue.  Properties of this oil overlap with neroli and is considered to have a mild sedative and antidepressant effect.  May be helpful with anxiety, nervousness and insomnia.  For a relaxing effect, it may be used with bergamot, geranium, lavender, neroli and sandalwood.

Psychological:

Sweet orange is a joyful oil, positive.  It harmonises feelings and wakens creativity.  It’s great when you are taking life too seriously and you’ve forgotten how to laugh.  Also, when you feel tense, nervous or withdrawn.  Helps to reduce fear of the unknown and help greet new adventures.

TCM Benefits

Helps to circulate stagnant qi, especially in the liver, stomach and intestines. One of the best all round oils for the digestive system.

Helps to balance the wood element, by supporting the liver in the smooth flow of qi.  Stagnant qi and imbalance in the wood element creates anger, and sweet orange will help us to relax whenever we feel anger, irritability and irritation

Energetic Benefits

Bursting with vitality

Brings happiness to the heavy heart and those who are lost

Gives us the determination to invigorate our sense of being

Nourishes the soul

Helps us to be confident and loving

Helps when feeling gloomy, when there is no light at the end of the tunnel

Access light-heartedness

Radiate inner warmth that helps you too loosen up and find your sense of humour

Clinical studies support effectiveness as an antidepressant, antimicrobial, antiseptic and anxiolytic oil

Traditional uses:

The dried peel has traditionally been used for centuries since Ancient China for coughs, colds and anorexia

How to use

Bath – full body, foot

Topical – compress, massage, ointment, skin care

Inhalation – direct inhalation, diffuser, vaporiser

Safety

GRAS – generally recognised as safe

According to Battaglia, sweet orange oil is not considered to be phototoxic

Do not ingest essential oils unless under the direct supervision of a qualified aromatherapist or medical herbalist – even if an oil is sold to you as food grade.

Do not apply undiluted oils to the skin