There is no one who does not like the fresh, sunny and summer energy scent of orange. An essential oil is extracted from it, the aroma of which is identical to that of the freshly cut fruit. It is bright, sparkling and refreshing and at the same time beckons with its softness, gentleness, sweetness and soothing effect. All these effects are guaranteed if sweet orange oil is used, which must be distinguished from bergamot oil which is known as bitter orange.
Here's how it's made and what sweet orange oil is used for.
Production, chemical composition and characteristics of orange essential oil
Orange oil is an essential oil obtained from the sweet orange plant, whose Latin name is Citrus sinensis. When we peel an orange, small splashes of its peel fill the surrounding space with an incredibly sweet and pleasant aroma. This is the aroma that orange essential oil has, obtained by cold pressing the peel of the fruit.
Orange oil, most commonly called sweet orange essential oil, may also be extracted from the fruit or leaves and flowers of the Citrus sinensis plant.
Unlike orange juice, essential oil is extracted from the orange through a process that also includes the use of ethanol.
It has high volatility, is distinguished by its yellow or orange color, similar to an orange and watery viscosity. Its shelf life is about 6 months. The main chemical components of orange oil are: pinene, sabinene, myrcene, limonene, linalool, citronellal, neral and geranial.
The oil is not toxic or irritating, does not sensitize the body, but may have a phototoxic effect. Therefore, it is not recommended to be used during prolonged exposure to the sun.
Benefits of orange essential oil
Stops the growth of some bacteria and fungi
The application of the essential oil with only 1 percent concentration destroys the Escherichia coli bacteria. It has also been shown that when low concentration orange oil is added to infected human cells, it kills the bacteria without harming healthy cells.
This essential oil can prevent fungi from forming on food that spoil it. It is effective against a significant number of fungi that affect vegetables.
Effectively reduces stress and anxiety levels
Aromatherapy with orange essential oil reduces levels of the stress hormone cortisol and lowers heart rate in children.
Inhalation of orange essential oil helps fight depression.
It relieves pain when applied topically or in aromatherapy treatments.
A mixture of orange essential oil and ginger oil can provide pain relief when applied topically to knee pain, bone fractures and more. Inhaling the aroma of the oil has an even stronger therapeutic effect.
Helps with sport activities
Inhalation of orange oil improves lung function and thus supports sport activities. Exercises require less time and effort to perform them with such help.
Reduces levels of harmful cholesterol and weight
As surprising as it sounds, orange essential oil can help in the fight against weight. Inhaling its aroma lowers cholesterol and aids weight loss efforts. This also has a healthy effect on the whole body.
Combating insecticides
Essential oil of orange has properties as an insect repellent. The oil applied to the larvae and pupae of house flies destroys them.
It has antioxidant and anticancer effects
This oil has the power to destroy cancer cells in the colon. This is due to the limonene component contained in the oil. Limonene inhibits the growth of certain cancer cells and this property makes it a cancer-fighting agent. It also works in lung and prostate cancer.
Applications of Orange Oil for Emotional and Spiritual Needs
Orange oil is used for depression, sadness, hopelessness. It energizes the body, reduces fear of the unknown and brings joy and positivity.
The fresh and sweet aroma infuses positive feelings and helps overcome postpartum depression, improves mental clarity and concentration and is recommended for harmonizing body, mind and spirit.
Medicinal uses of orange oil
This oil brings happiness and warmth to the mind and has a strong relaxing effect, helping children sleep more soundly at night. Orange oil acts effectively on the immune system and helps with colds, flu and as a cleansing agent for toxins from the body, and this action is among the most commonly used.
Orange oil is a good diuretic and is therefore used as a water balancer and in the body to prevent obesity. Its action, as a stimulant of the lymphatic system, works favorably for detoxification, supports the immune system and leads to the general well-being of the body.
It is widely used in constipation and acts as a general tonic, removes digestive problems.
Inhaler Application
In steam therapies, orange oil helps with nervous tension and stress. It creates a feeling of happiness and warmth, calms the nervous system and stabilizes sleep.
Application of orange oil in cosmetics
Application in massage oils in the bath
When applied to a massage or bath, orange oil tones and heals the body, eliminates toxins, and stimulates the immune and lymphatic systems.
Application in creams and lotions
Applied in creams and lotions, the oil supports the lymphatic system and the detoxification of contaminated skin. It works well for dermatitis, acne, as well as for soothing dry and irritated skin. Its overall toning effect on the skin comes from helping the formation of collagen, which is necessary for healthy, youthful-looking skin.
Side effects and contraindications for using orange oil
- If orange oil is used for aromatherapy purposes, the room must first be well ventilated.
- It should not be applied topically near the eyes.
- Storing the oil in a safe place is mandatory to avoid accidents.
- Pregnant and breastfeeding women can use orange essential oil only after consulting their doctor.
- Since citrus essential oils are phototoxic, it is not good not to use this oil immediately before going outside.
- Oxidized orange oil should not be used. It can cause a serious allergic reaction.
- Orange essential oil in light colored bottles should not be purchased and used as it deteriorates when exposed to sunlight. Dark bottles protect the oil from it and are therefore a must for storage.
Combination of orange oil with other oils
Orange oil combines well with other essential oils such as pepper, cinnamon, clove, ginger, frankincense, sandalwood and vetiver.
Some more interesting uses of orange essential oil
- At home, this oil is used as an additive to various types of drinks, desserts and candied nuts and fruit.
- In industry, it is used to make soaps, body lotions, creams, anti-aging and anti-wrinkle products, lifting products, sprays, deodorants, fragrances.
- In the food industry, it is used as a concentrate for soft drinks, in biscuits, chocolate, confectionery and bakery products.
