How do you get it?
Neroli oil is obtained from bitter orange flowers by steam distillation. Three types of essential oil are extracted from bitter orange:
- Bitter orange oil, obtained from the peel of the fruit;
- Neroli;
- Petitgrain oil, which is extracted from the leaves.
The name of the oil comes from the Italian town of Nerola, located in the Lazio region. According to legend, Princess Marie-Anne de la Trimoile, who lived in this town in the 16th century, preferred the scent of bitter orange flowers to all other scents.
This scent was the favorite of Emperor Napoleon.
Bitter orange or bitter orange is the result of hybrid pollination of a mandarin with a pomelo. It is believed that this happened in Southeast Asia. It is not found growing wild anywhere.
Cultivated in:
- Mediterranean countries;
- Western part of India;
- East Africa;
- Himalayas;
- Morocco.
Grows on:
- Caribbean Islands;
- South USA;
- Caucasus.
Grow as a houseplant.
When flowering, one plant can produce up to 30 kilograms of delicate small waxy flowers. It takes almost 850 kilograms to produce 1 liter of oil. The flowers are collected by hand so as not to damage them, as in this case they quickly lose their aroma.
Origin of Neroli essential oil and its components
One interesting fact about the bitter orange tree ( Neroli oil INCI: Citrus aurantium
) is that it is home to three completely separate types of essential oil.
The peel of ripe (and near-ripe) fruits is a source of orange essential oil
, while the leaves and tender young shoots are a source of
petitgrain essential oil
.
And finally, Neroli essential oil
is extracted by steam distillation from the flowers of the tree, which are white in color, small in size and leave a slight waxy sensation on the fingers after tactile contact. The bitter orange tree originally grew in eastern Africa and tropical Asia, but today the plant is cultivated throughout the Mediterranean region and the southern states of Florida and California. The trees bloom profusely in May and, with proper care, can produce up to 30 kg of fresh flowers each.
When extracting the oil from the collected petals, time is of the essence as... The oil evaporates very quickly from the petal cells after they are picked from the tree. To maximize the oil yield from the raw material, the petals are collected by hand, trying to avoid excessive squeezing. Of course, there is no question of mechanical assembly. The main, major components of Neroli oil are Linalool
(28.5%),
Linalyl acetate
(19.6%), Nerolidol (9.1%), E-farnesol (9.1%), Alpha-terpineol (4.9%) and
Limonene
(4.6%) . A classic subjective question arises: what does neroli essential oil smell like? The aroma of neroli oil is rich and enveloping. Sometimes it is even called “bewitching neroli”, because... many esotericists actively use this oil in their practices. However, we prefer a scientific approach, as you will see as you continue reading the article.
Chemical composition
Active Ingredients:
- Linalool;
- Linalyl acetate;
- β-pinene.
The oil owes its intense aroma to:
- Indola;
- Methyl anthranilate.
In addition to these compounds, the following were found:
- Nerolidol;
- e-farnesol;
- α-terpineol;
- Limonene;
- α-pinene;
- Camphene;
- Jasmole;
- Geraniol.
One of the best scents known in aromatherapy: pleasant citrus with fresh floral notes. Very intense. In aromatherapy it is often referred to as a flower oil rather than a citrus oil.
The consistency is slightly viscous. Light yellow or coffee brown.
General description of neroli oil and composition
Neroli oil is a viscous, golden-colored liquid with a distinct aroma of citrus and flowers.
The most important components of the essential oil are:
- linalool;
- linalyl acetate;
- nerolidol;
- e-farnesol;
- alpha-terpineol;
- limonene.
Neroli essential oil – beneficial properties and uses:
- linalool is an antiseptic, reduces the production of fatty secretions, discolors age spots, helps in the treatment of acne;
- limonene – cleanses the skin, tightens pores, removes oily shine;
- dipentene – participates in the synthesis of collagen fibers, improves blood flow;
- pinene – reduces irritation, relieves redness, helps skin regeneration;
- nerol – kills harmful microflora, activates regeneration processes, gives the skin smoothness;
- geraniol – strengthens capillary walls, reduces wrinkles;
- jasmone – gives the skin elasticity and density;
- camphene – retains moisture.
It has an intoxicating aroma - rich, enveloping, deep, consisting of a mixture of citrus and floral scents.
The presence of cold and warm tones allows us to classify the oil as complex. Initially, upon inhalation, a light, cool, woody aroma is felt. It is replaced by floral notes, then a rich, warm scent spreads, which is similar to floral caramel.
Combination with essential oils
To obtain new interesting aromas, it is possible to combine neroli with other essential oils. Combines with the scent of cedar, lemon, ginger, pine, myrrh, mandarin, patchouli, white sandalwood, Roman chamomile, clary sage.
A varied blend allows you to independently create a clean, chemical-free deodorant with a feminine or masculine character.
Beneficial features
The combination of chemical compounds gives the oil:
- Calming;
- Sedatives;
- Antimicrobial;
- Antiseptic;
- Anti-inflammatory;
- Antispasmodic;
- Antioxidant
properties.
The main benefit of the oil is its ability to relieve stress by regulating cortisol levels.
Recommended for relieving long-term conditions:
- Anxiety;
- Hysteria;
- Shock;
- Depression;
- Increased mental stress.
Helps with insomnia, especially when anxiety prevents you from falling asleep. In this case, it works better as a bath before bed.
One of the physical properties of neroli is to relieve spasms of smooth muscles, especially in the digestive system. It is a good remedy for chronic diarrhea caused by nervous tension.
Capable of reducing:
- Blood pressure;
- Cortisol levels;
- Acute or chronic inflammation;
- Sensitivity to central and peripheral pain;
- Symptoms associated with menopause.
According to research, inhaling neroli oil:
- Reduces diastolic blood pressure;
- Improves heart rate;
- Increases libido
in menopausal and postmenopausal women.
Antimicrobial and antioxidant properties protect against bacteria, fungi and yeast. Research has shown that neroli is active against at least two types of yeast, three types of fungi, and six types of bacteria.
Protects particularly well against infections caused by blue oil sticks and other bacterial infections compared to standard medications such as nystatin.
Can be used as a temporary emergency measure to treat tetanus.
All you need to do is apply a diluted solution of essential oil to the wound to prevent the development of infection until you contact a medical facility.
Properties
Thanks to the rich aroma of flowers and their composition, neroli essential oil has a wide variety of properties. And this is why neroli oil is useful. Among the beneficial qualities of neroli, the following are particularly worth highlighting: sedative, analgesic, antiseptic, bactericidal, antispasmodic, tonic, antidepressant, restorative, cytophylactic, carminative.
- It is useful to use as an additional remedy in the treatment of the cardiovascular system. Neroli helps reduce the symptoms of arrhythmia, tachycardia, has a cardiotonic effect, potentiates coronary blood flow, cleanses blood vessels of cholesterol plaques, and improves blood circulation.
- Neroli oil helps solve problems associated with the gastrointestinal tract. With its help, your digestive and excretory systems will work like clockwork. It will help get rid of colitis and diarrhea, eliminate enzyme deficiency.
- For female diseases, it helps cope with premenstrual and menopausal syndrome, relieves muscle cramps and joint contractures, eliminates irritability and tearfulness, promotes weight loss, and normalizes the functioning of the endocrine system.
- It is a powerful aphrodosiac, stimulates sexual function, is useful against frigidity and impotence, and helps solve sexual problems.
- Neroli essential oil is effective in the fight against colds and infectious diseases, in particular, influenza and herpes; it is a mild diuretic and will help overcome insomnia.
Neroli oil has many properties due to which it is widely used for medicinal purposes.
Neroli contains nitrogen compounds, natural alcohols and esters. The oil has a pronounced floral-citrus aroma.
The cold, slightly tart smell with a citrusy bitterness was liked by perfumers of the past and is still held in special esteem in the lines of expensive perfumes. Due to its high price and rich aroma, orange oil is used only in very small doses in the manufacture of perfume of the highest price category.
Neroli essential oil uses in medicine:
- as a tranquilizer, it calms the mind and gives self-confidence;
- as an antispasmodic it helps with diarrhea and colitis, stimulates digestion;
- As an antiseptic, the oil has excellent bactericidal properties;
- As an aphrodisiac, it increases sexual desire in men and women.
Cosmetology has adopted the unique properties of neroli to smooth and moisturize the skin, hair and nail plates.
Useful properties in cosmetology
Neroli oil with anti-aging effect. Suitable for all skin types:
- Improves complexion;
- Stimulates cell renewal;
- Regulates the secretion of sebum;
- Increases elasticity;
- Nourishes the skin;
- Smoothes wrinkles;
- Evens out the tone.
Recommended for dermatological problems caused by stress. Useful in anti-acne cosmetics. Prevents the formation of scars and stretch marks. Suitable for treating damaged blood vessels.
Contraindications for use
Neroli oil has a high concentration of active substances, so it is not used in its pure form, but mixed with a base oil. Even when used in low concentrations, a tingling and slight burning sensation is felt on the skin.
Before use, an allergic reaction test is required. To do this, apply diluted oil on the wrist for half an hour. If there is no irritation, it can be used for cosmetic purposes.
Contraindications to the use of neroli oil:
- pregnancy and breastfeeding;
- age under 12 and over 70 years;
- individual allergic reaction;
- course of chemotherapy.
The best time to use is before bed.
Application
Neroli essential oil is used:
- For medicinal purposes;
- In cosmetology;
- In aromatherapy;
- For aromatization of household products.
Massage
Soothes and relieves muscle tension. Mix 3-5 drops of neroli with 10 ml of base oil.
Infections
An effective antiviral remedy for influenza and herpes.
Inhalations and air aromatization
Fights bacteria, fungi and viruses, has antiseptic, antibacterial and deodorizing properties.
Place 1-2 drops on a scarf or cotton pad and breathe.
For steam inhalations, add 1-2 drops to a bowl of hot water. Cover your head with a towel and breathe deeply for 5-7 minutes, closing your eyes.
Aromatherapy
Relieves stress and nervous tension; The magical aroma gives a feeling of slight relaxation, balances mood swings, and gives a feeling of self-confidence.
Bath. Add 3-5 drops of oil mixed with 1/4 cup of honey, milk or salt to a filled bath (37-38 C). The duration of the procedure is 10-15 minutes.
Fireplace. 3-5 drops diluted with water. Can be used in air humidifiers to aromatize rooms.
Bath
Has a positive effect on people suffering from insomnia, especially associated with stress and anxiety. Has a calming effect on palpitations.
Sauna, Russian bath: mix 5-6 drops of oil with 1-2 tablespoons of honey, milk or salt, dissolve in 500 ml of water. Pour onto the stones in the bathhouse.
Skin care
Recommended primarily for older people as a rejuvenating agent, improves elasticity, smoothes wrinkles and nourishes tired skin. Useful for:
- Irritated;
- Sensitive;
- Flabby;
- Dry;
- Mature
skin.
In the right concentration it is safe even for sensitive skin.
Prevents existing stretch marks and fights existing ones.
Has a healing effect on the skin when:
- Eczema;
- Dermatoses;
- Cellulite;
- Acne and pimples;
- Herpes;
- Cracks;
- Scars;
- Spider veins.
Enrichment of cosmetics - activates skin cell renewal and supports regeneration.
Mix 2-5 drops of oil with 10-15 ml of cream, lotion, gel, shampoo.
The intense aroma of neroli is suitable for use at home:
- Air fresheners;
- Deodorants;
- Soap;
- Cleaning and detergents.
Features of application
Precious neroli oil has a wide range of applications. It is very popular in cosmetology - for caring for delicate and super sensitive skin. The beauty industry is the area where orange blossom oil is most commonly used.
Neroli ether is included in the formulas of many elite cosmetic and perfume compositions - for example, the aroma of the iconic Chanel No. 5 perfume is built around the mysterious note of orange blossom.
Orange blossom oil is also effectively used in home cosmetology: small doses are added to face, body and hair care products, used in therapeutic and rejuvenating masks, inhalations, aromatic baths and other procedures.
The composition of the legendary Chanel No. 5 perfume is built around the aroma of neroli
For hair
In combination with various base oils and other natural ingredients, neroli essential oil works great to improve the quality of hair, making it thick, healthy and strong.
Neroli will make hair strong and shiny
Fast growth
Stimulates hair follicles, nourishing them, creating conditions for accelerated hair growth.
Ingredients:
- olive oil and honey - 1 tablespoon each;
- chicken egg (or just the yolk);
- neroli - 2 drops.
Application:
- Mix all ingredients until smooth.
- Rub part of the composition into the hair roots, massage the scalp, then comb along the entire length of the curls.
- Cover your head with cling film, insulate it, and after an hour and a half, wash it off with your usual shampoo.
Strength and shine
Penetrating deeply into the hair structure, it treats it from the inside, restores elasticity, strengthens and gives a beautiful shine.
Ingredients:
- olive oil - 1 tablespoon;
- wheat germ oil - 25 drops;
- neroli - 2 drops.
Wheat germ oil is a good base for hair restoration
Application:
- Prepare the oil mixture, heat it a little and distribute along the length of the hair without touching the scalp.
- Insulate the mask and leave it to work for an hour, then rinse well with warm water and shampoo.
For skin
Regular use of neroli gives a very strong effect to get rid of such serious skin problems as acne, chronic rashes and even stretch marks. And the caring, renewing and rejuvenating properties of this essential oil remain beyond any competition. To obtain a stable result, masks with neroli are recommended to be done weekly.
Neroli oil will turn every woman into a princess
Cosmetic ice
A wonderful natural stimulant for all skin types; Suitable for both young girls and mature ladies.
Ingredients:
- bee honey - 1 teaspoon;
- mineral water - 1 glass;
- neroli - 1 drop.
Cosmetic ice with neroli and honey is an excellent tonic and stimulant for all skin types.
Application:
- Grind honey with ether and dilute with water so that no sediment remains.
- Freeze ice in a silicone mold.
- Use morning and evening, after rubbing along the massage lines, do not rinse or wipe the skin.
For excess fat
Normalizes the water-lipid balance of the skin, evens out its structure and improves color.
Ingredients:
- blue clay - 1 tablespoon;
- mineral water - 1 tablespoon;
- neroli - 2 drops.
Mask with neroli and clay is ideal for oily skin
Application:
- Dilute the clay powder with mineral water so that there are no lumps left, add ether.
- Apply the mask evenly, avoiding contact with the skin around the eyes and lips.
- After drying, rinse with heated mineral water and wipe with herbal decoction or tonic.
For pimples, acne and dermatitis
It has a healing - anti-inflammatory, disinfecting and regenerating effect.
Ingredients:
- grape seed oil - 1 tablespoon;
- neroli - 1 drop.
Neroli with grape seed oil is an effective cure for acne and pimples.
Application:
- Mix the oils and apply to problem areas of cleansed skin once or twice a day.
- Pimples, blackheads and other small areas of inflammation can be precisely cauterized with neroli in its pure form.
Against cellulite
Oil wraps with neroli tighten and smooth the skin, eliminating the “orange peel” effect.
Ingredients:
- coconut, jojoba and almond oils - 1 tablespoon each;
- neroli - 1 drop.
Orange flower oil is the enemy of “orange peel” on the body
Application:
- Stir until the coconut oil is completely dissolved.
- Rub into problem areas of the body in the evening; To improve the result, wrap with cling film.
- The duration of action is at least one and a half hours, if possible, leave it to act overnight.
- Upon completion of the procedure, take a warm shower.
A drop of neroli defeats cellulite - video
As an aphrodisiac
Neroli essential oil is one of the strongest oil aphrodisiacs - it increases potency in men and reduces frigidity in women. It is no coincidence that the oil of their orange flowers is called the “aroma of love” - neroli reveals the magical buds of sensuality, making women more feminine and men more masculine.
The oil is very popular in mixtures for erotic massage, scented candles and baths. Just a few drops of ether in the aroma lamp - and the love magic of orange blossom will fill your home and make an unforgettable romantic evening.
The aroma of neroli will make a romantic evening unforgettable
For five centuries now, many beautiful ladies have been convinced that the miraculous ether of neroli protects their youth and beauty from envious glances and merciless time - all you have to do is not part with the treasured medallion containing a few drops of aromatic oil. For other methods of using the “love potion”, the following dosage of neroli is recommended:
- 10 drops - dissolve in water for an aromatic bath;
- 1 drop per square meter of room - for use in an aroma lamp;
- 6 drops per tablespoon of base oil - for erotic massage.
Use in medicine
This is a very powerful drug for treating many ailments and regulating the functioning of the body as a whole. Neroli is a thin, “feminine” oil that regulates endocrine metabolism. This ester is especially good for ovarian dysfunction, as well as for other disruptions in the hormonal system. Gives excellent results for normalizing cardiovascular activity and digestion; equalizes blood pressure levels.
Neroli essential oil - guardian of women's health
Treatment regimens with neroli oil - table
Purpose | Treatment regimen |
Colds and flu |
|
Spasm relief and pain relief |
|
Elimination of inflammation in muscles and joints |
|
Cuperosis |
|
Stretch marks and scars |
|
Eczema and herpes |
|
Application for health and beauty - video
How to use recipes
Bitter orange flower oil has many uses. Here are some recipes on how to use neroli at home.
To relieve anxiety, stress, anxiety, add a few drops to the aroma lamp diffuser.
To relieve depression, relieve hysteria, panic, hysteria, add 3-4 drops to the water when bathing.
To relieve stress during rush hour travel, inhale the aroma of the oil with a drop on a handkerchief.
For insomnia, to improve sleep, apply 1-2 drops on a cotton pad and place it next to the pillow.
To improve blood circulation, mix 2-3 drops with a tablespoon of base and rub the body.
You can relieve headaches or neuralgia with a cold compress. Wet a towel with cold water and apply a few drops of neroli. Apply to forehead.
To relieve premenstrual syndrome, add to bathing water.
Adding oil to an aroma lamp will help reduce high blood pressure. You can inhale the aroma from the bottle.
To relieve cramps, mix 4-5 drops with the base product and massage the lower abdomen.
Bitter orange flower essential oil can be used to reduce fears and anxiety associated with childbirth. Add a few drops to a spray bottle and spray around the room. The diluted oil can be rubbed into the lumbar area.
For acne
Thanks to its antibacterial properties, it relieves inflammation caused by acne. Moisten a cotton pad with water and apply 1 drop. Apply to the affected area no more than once a day.
To improve regeneration
Mix 1-2 drops of oil with face cream (unfragranced) or cosmetic oil. Use for daily care.
Reducing stretch marks
Add 3-5 drops of neroli per 10-15 ml of base substance to cream, lotion or cosmetic oil.
Precautionary measures
Neroli oil has contraindications, there are few of them. Essential oils should be used with extreme caution by pregnant women and children. Individual intolerance and allergic reactions that go away on their own are possible. After applying the essential oil to the skin, a slight tingling effect appears.
With a huge number of properties important for human health, neroli deserves to take pride of place among your favorite essential oils.
Legends and stories associated with neroli
Orange tree flowers have symbolized pure love, luck and immortality in Eastern philosophy since ancient times. The ancient Greeks attributed them as an emblem of Diana - the goddess of the plant world, femininity and fertility.
For centuries, brides have decorated their wedding dresses with small bouquets of orange blossoms. This is how the well-known fleur-d'orange appeared. Although it is believed that the name for neroli oil was given by an Italian countess who adored the orange aroma. By the way, Chanel No. 5 perfume also contains neroli oil.