Neroli Oil

Neroli oil is an essential oil prepared from the leaves of the bitter orange tree (Citrus aurantium). The flowers of this tree are too delicate and so are handpicked. As these flowers cannot withstand steam distillation, usually, water distillation is preferred for making this oil. Neroli oil has a pale yellow color and is thin in consistency. It has a pleasant floral smell, which is sometimes compared to that of bergamot. This oil has been used for its fragrance for a very long time and even today, it is one of the ingredients in many commercial fragrances. Eau-de-cologne is one of the popular products that contain neroli oil as an ingredient.

Neroli Oil Uses

As mentioned above, neroli oil is being used for its fragrance and is a part of many perfumes. Apart from that, it is used in aromatherapy as an essential oil. This oil is also used for massaging. Even some cosmetic products have it as an ingredient. It is also used in some flavors and in the preparation of some beverages, like the OpenCola. The main chemical components of this essential oil are camphene, b-pinene, a-pinene, nerol, neryl acetate, a-terpinene, farnesol, geraniol, linalool, linalyl acetate, methyl anthranilate, nerolidol, indole, etc. This oil is considered non toxic and non irritant. It can be used in burners and diffusers and can also be used as a blended massage oil. Neroli oil is found to blend well with other essential oils, especially, sandalwood, jasmine, ylang ylang oil, lavender, rosemary, etc.

Neroli Oil Health Benefits

Neroli oil is said to possess anti depressant, aphrodisiac, deodorant, disinfectant, sedative, carminative, anti spasmodic and digestive properties. It is claimed to be one of the most effective anti depressant oils and is used extensively in aromatherapy for soothing and calming effect. It can uplift your mood and ease tension and anxiety. It is said to be good for people with stress and depression. Neroli oil is found to be effective in treating headaches, insomnia, vertigo, etc. It is also used for skin care. This oil is said to be beneficial for removing stretch marks and scars. Apart from that, it increases the elasticity of the skin and promotes blood circulation. So, it is used as an ingredient in various lotions, creams, under eye creams, etc. It is also claimed that neroli oil acts as a tonic for the female reproductive system. It is applied on the abdomen for relief from menstrual cramps. Even digestive disorders are said to be treated with neroli essential oil. It can either be applied on the abdomen for reducing bloating and abdominal discomfort or can be taken as infused tea or supplement. Use of neroli oil is recommended for those with intestinal disorders, like, colitis, diarrhea, etc.

This was a brief description about neroli oil, its uses, including health benefits. However, internal use of this essential oil must be in accordance with the instructions of a qualified herbal practitioner. Even though, it is safe to use this essential oil, in some people, it may cause side effects like, headache and uneasiness. It is also advisable for pregnant and nursing women to refrain from using this oil.