Characteristics of Bitter Orange

The bitter orange tree – Citrus aurantium, is native to Southeast Asia and is now widely cultivated in most parts of the world. It belongs to the citrus family and is also known as bitter orange, sour orange, Seville orange or citron orange.
It is a moderately growing tree that reaches up to 3 meters in height. It is considered to be a hybrid between mandarin and grapefruit.
It grows wild in ravines and is a hardy plant, resistant to frost and drought, without special requirements. The tree’s flowers bloom early in spring and their exquisite fragrance attracts bees, which is why it is often cultivated as a beekeeping tree for the
production of bitter orange honey.
The bitter orange fruit is rich in vitamin C, flavones, antioxidants, calcium, potassium, sodium, iron and magnesium. From the flowers of the bitter orange tree the essential oil neroli is produced, known for its wonderful penetrating aroma.

History of the Bitter Orange Tree

The bitter orange tree was first cultivated in the Mediterranean zone by the Arab conquerors around the 10th to 11th century. Later the tree travelled to Asia and America. The presence of neroli essential oil is recorded for the first time in 1563. It is said that it got its name (neroli) from the princess of Nerola, Anna Maria, who was the one to introduce it to
Italy. The blossoms of the bitter orange tree have been used in the past as bridal wreaths and as a symbol of purity.
In Greece and Cyprus the bitter orange tree grows within cities, beautifies the pavements and is widely used in spoon sweets and marmalades. In aromatherapy it has been valued as an anxiolytic, at the same time relaxing, for its antidepressant and aphrodisiac properties. An infusion ideal for cough, insomnia and good digestion is prepared from the dried blossoms of the bitter orange tree.

Ingredients

Essential oil from the fragrant blossoms of the bitter orange tree produced by hydrodistillation. Chemical composition of neroli essential oil. Limonene 27.5%, (E)-nerolidol 17.5%, α-terpineol 14%, alpha-terpinyl acetate 11.7%, (E,E)-
farnesol 8%

Directions for use

- Compress: Add 7 drops of neroli to 100 ml of warm water and apply to the area of the body where tension has accumulated. Avoid the face area.
- Inhalations for a blocked nose: Put water in a pan to evaporate over low heat and add 5 drops of neroli and a few eucalyptus leaves for clear and free breathing.
- Sensual body oil: Use evening primrose oil together with castor oil and add gardenia and neroli essential oils. Apply to the body before going out in the evening and leave a captivating scent in your wake.
- Refresh your home by adding a few drops of neroli to a ceramic burner.
- Blends well with rose, lemon balm, lavender, orange, mandarin, sandalwood, jasmine.

Useful tips

- The use of essential oils should be avoided during pregnancy, breastfeeding and in young children.
- Avoid direct contact with skin, eyes and mouth.
- Always use essential oils diluted in a carrier oil or other medium.