Neroli oil isn’t exactly the most popular, because, to be honest, hardly anyone has heard of it. Yet it deserves attention and recognition. Known as the ‘royal oil’, it delights with its sensual scent and properties that practically anyone can benefit from – whether for their well-being, their body or... their home. It is the perfect choice for those who favour natural, safe and simple solutions. Why is it worth using neroli oil?
Neroli oil – extraction
Neroli oil is extracted from the flowers of the bitter orange (Citrus aurantium L.), belonging to the family Rutaceae. The plant originates from south-east Asia, but is widely cultivated in many countries – the oil is produced on a large scale in Tunisia, Egypt and Morocco.
The harvest of ripe flowers usually takes place in late April or early May. It takes as much as 1,000 kg of raw material to extract 1 kg of oil. And this is by no means a simple task. The flowers are picked by hand – to obtain the highest quality oil, they must not be damaged. The petals quickly lose their scent, so timing is of the essence.
The fresh flowers undergo steam distillation, producing the remarkable neroli oil.
Neroli, – what is it?
Neroli is a small Italian town – it is not a major producer, and the oil does not come from there. So where does the name come from? In the 17th century, Princess Anne Marie Orsini lived there, who was particularly fond of the scent of bitter orange blossoms. She successfully popularised the fragrance, and it soon became famous throughout the region – so the name doesn’t seem to be a coincidence, does it?
An extraordinary orange
Other essential oils are also obtained from the bitter orange – orange oil from the fruit peel and petitgrain from the leaves and twigs. And contrary to appearances – each of them is completely different – both in terms of scent, and properties.
Neroli oil – properties
Neroli oil exhibits high antimicrobial activity, cleanses minor wounds and prevents infections. It also has analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, and in many cases can reduce swelling. It soothes skin irritation, regenerates the skin, and reduces the appearance of scars, discolouration and other minor imperfections.
Neroli oil may be particularly beneficial for women. It alleviates certain symptoms of PMS (– premenstrual syndrome) – such as mood swings, irritability, abdominal pain and bloating. The product also alleviates the symptoms of the menopause – it lowers blood pressure, boosts libido and reduces stress.
Research into its anticonvulsant effects is currently underway. According to scientists, the components of the oil may have a very beneficial effect on the treatment of epilepsy and tonic and clonic convulsions. Neroli oil soothes not only the body but also the senses.
Neroli oil – aromatherapy
Neroli oil has a very distinctive scent. One can easily detect a distinct floral-citrus aroma, sweet and honeyed, yet spicy with a delicate, herbal note. It has a calming effect and alleviates anxiety. It calms and restores emotional balance.
The rich aroma of neroli oil works wonderfully on its own – simply add 8–10 drops of the product to an aromatherapy burner or diffuser to enjoy a good mood.
Neroli oil can also be part of an interesting fragrance blend. What to combine it with?
- lavender
- ylang-ylang
- eucalyptus
- bergamot
- lime
- cedarwood
- rosewood
What if we took it a step further?
Neroli oil in several ways
Neroli oil makes a great base for fresh and energising or, quite the opposite, relaxing and soothing blends, depending on your needs, expectations and (of course!) mood. Perhaps a few suggestions to get you started?
- 3 drops of neroli oil + 2 drops of orange + 2 drops of petitgrain + 1 drop of mandarin
- 3 drops neroli oil + 2 drops of rose + 2 drops of lavender + 1 drop of bergamot + 1 drop of jasmine
- 3 drops of neroli oil+ 2 drops of lavender + 2 drops of patchouli + 1 drop of ylang-ylang
- 4 drops neroli oil + 2 drops of rosemary + 1 drop of lemon + 1 drop of grapefruit
Neroli massage oil
Neroli oil, used regularly during massage, helps to get rid of cellulite and stretch marks, and also prevents new ones from forming. It improves circulation and the overall condition of the skin. You can perform the treatment yourself at home, using just two ingredients:
- 5 drops of neroli oil + 10 ml of carrier oil
Could it be any easier?
Neroli oil for the bath
Neroli oil is also often used during a bath – whether relaxing or therapeutic. Why? It perfectly soothes muscle and joint pain, calms psychological problems Derma and... combats a bad mood. How to prepare a bath? Add approx. 6–8 drops of neroli oil to a bath of warm water – nothing else.
An evening treatment will perfectly soothe the senses and relax you after a hard day; it is exceptionally effective for those struggling to fall asleep.
Neroli oil and a foot bath
Neroli oil is a remedy for tired and aching feet. It will help moisturise the skin and soften calloused skin. To prepare the treatment, add 3–4 drops of (oil to a bowl filled with hot water; you may also optionally add one cup of Epsom salt). Soak your feet for at least 15–20 minutes, then dry them thoroughly and apply your favourite moisturising cream.
Neroli oil in cosmetics
Due to its sensual and very long-lasting scent, neroli oil is used in the production of perfumes and eau de toilette, but it is also a great aromatic addition to all cosmetics. More important than the aroma, however, is the extract’s effect on the skin.
Neroli oil for the face
Neroli oil stimulates the production of type III collagen (), which is the building block of the skin, delays the ageing process, and preventsthe premature formation of wrinkles, and ensures firmness and elasticity. Used regularly, it evens out and improves skin tone, tones, deeply nourishes and regenerates.
Although neroli oil is recommended for dry, sensitive, tired and problematic, skin, it works well for all skin types, offering a range of benefits. The easiest way is to add a few drops to your day or night cream (), but you can also create a whole "range", by making a homemade toner:
- 10 drops of neroli oil + 250 ml of distilled water
Place the mixture in a bottle, and use every morning and evening.
...and a face mask:
- 5 drops of neroli oil + 3 drops of frankincense oil + 3 drops of carrot seed oil + 3 tablespoons of jojoba oil
The mask should be used once a week, applying it to cleansed facial skin. Depending on your preference, the mixture can be washed off after approx. 20 minutes or left on overnight.
Neroli oil at home
Neroli oil perfectly (and almost instantly) masks unpleasant odours. It is worth using this, to create a versatile room freshener. Mix the following two ingredients in a spray bottle:
- 20 drops of neroli oil + 250 ml of distilled water
Remember, to shake the spray before each use.
Neroli oil will also help keep carpets clean. To make an effective cleaner, thoroughly mix approx. half a cup of bicarbonate of soda and 10 drops of neroli oil, then sprinkle the powder over the carpet and rub in gently. After 30 minutes, vacuum as usual.
Neroli oil - contraindications
Neroli oil is a mild and safe product,; however, due to its high terpene content, it causes allergic reactions much more frequently, than other essential oils (. It is advisable to carry out an allergy test, particularly, if you have a citrus allergy).
Pregnant and breastfeeding women, as well as people, who suffer from chronic conditions (or are undergoing long-term pharmacological treatment) should consult a doctor before using the essential oil for the first time.
Neroli oil is particularly valued in aromatherapy. It has a beautiful, complex fragrance and exhibits strong calming properties. And it can be used in many other ways. It works well in any home, replacing air fresheners full of chemicals; it is also an excellent skincare product which, unlike synthetic cosmetics, is natural and safe. The list of uses is constantly growing – perhaps it’s time to add something of your own?
"Plant secondary metabolites and their application in cosmetics" - K. Dudka, M. Baran, E. Karpik, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, Maria Curie-Skłodowska University in Lublin
"Analgesic and anti-inflammatory activities of Citrus aurantium L. blossom essential oil (neroli): involvement of the nitric oxide/cyclic-guanosine monophosphate pathway" - P. Khodabakhsh, H. Shafaroodi, J. Asgarpanah, scientific journal Journal of Natural Medicines
"The scent of nature in cosmetics" - A. Skalska-Stochaj, S. Staszic State Higher Vocational School in Piła
"Performing cosmetic massage in various types of tissue changes" - G. Cichocki, Institute of Utilisation Technology – National Research Institute, Radom
"Biological and pharmacological activity of essential oils in the treatment and prevention of infectious diseases" - S. Król, K. Skalicka-Woźniak, M. Kandefer - Szerszeń, A. Stepulak, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Department of Pharmacognosy, Medical University of Lublin, Department of Virology and Immunology, Maria Curie - Skłodowska University in Lublin, Department of Otolaryngology, Ministry of Internal Affairs Hospital in Lublin
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