Bitter Orange

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Bitter Orange is a tree of the Rutaceae family, it is native to the Asian continent, later imported throughout the Mediterranean, North America and South America. In Italy it has found its ideal habitat in the warm regions of the south.

It is characterized by dark green leaves and white flowers. The spherical fruit is similar to that of the sweet orange (the oranges we eat), but differs from the latter in the appearance of the peel, which has a more pronounced roughness and a more intense and volatile aroma; it is precisely from the peel that the essential oil is extracted, with its numerous beneficial properties.

The essences extracted from flowers (Neroli) and leaves and twigs (Petit Grain) are widely used in cosmetics and perfumery from the same plant.

Used for therapeutic purposes, it counteracts acne, eczema, psoriasis and other skin problems, thanks to its antiseptic and antibacterial power, also regulating the production of sebum, on the skin and scalp. In addition, the bitter orange has bitter-tonic, digestive and eupeptic properties.

Antiseptic, antifungal, repellent: excellent for the sanitation of household environments.

In cosmetics it can be found in several forms:

- Petit Grain essential oil (Citrus Aurantium Amara Leaf / Twig Oil), which is obtained by steam distillation of the leaves and branches of Citrus aurantium (plant of the Rutaceae family); or you can get an essential oil from bitter orange peel (Citrus Aurantium Amara Peel Oil).
The uses of Bitter Orange essential oil are many: it can be spread in the environment, used on the skin with compresses, in ointments, etc ...
According to aromatherapy, this essence is able to relieve stress, counteract anxiety, depression and insomnia. In cosmetics, Petit Grain is recommended as an adjuvant in case of oily hair and skin impurities. Used in the form of ointment or massage oil it helps to treat muscle contractures and stress by toning the affected areas. The widespread use of Bitter Orange essential oil is also known as an adjuvant in counteracting skin imperfections such as cellulite. Moreover, thanks to its astringent and purifying properties it is very useful in all treatments for the body.

In case of skin application it is recommended to avoid exposure to the sun for 12 hours, as all essential oils obtained from citrus fruits are photosensitizers.

- Bitter orange flower hydrolat (Citrus Aurantium Amara Flower Water). It is a clear liquid distillate of pale yellow or pale orange color, obtained by steam distillation of the organic flowers of “Citrus Aurantium“. It contributes to the overall relaxation of the body and offers a very sweet fragrance.