Introduction:
Neroli oil took its name from Anna Maria de La Tremoille, who was once the Duchess of Bracciano and the Princess of Nerola. She is given credit for introducing this essential oil to Italy’s most affluent members of society, in the 17th century. During that period of time, Neroli oil was often used in bath water or as a perfume on stationary and clothing. Its rich, floral scent gained almost instant popularity and was used commercially by J.M. Farina, the famous Italian perfume manufacturer. In 1709, he began selling an essential oil blend of Bergamot, Lavender, Lemon, Petitgrain, Rosemary and Neroli. He called this magical blend "Eau de Cologne", which is still quite well known throughout today’s modern world.
Before making its way to Italy, Neroli oil completed a journey spanning several centuries. It is believed that Neroli oil originated in South-East Asia, before traveling to India, Burma and China. Neroli oil was considered a valuable trading item. Because of this, it continued to spread to other regions of the world including Africa, Arabia and Syria. Then, thanks to the Moors, it made its way further north and further west. Neroli oil was eventually carried into the Mediterranean region. And, by the end of the 12th century bitter orange trees were being cultivated in Seville, Spain for the production of this highly sought essential oil.
Like rose oil, this oil’s valid expense is driven by the enormous amount of blossoms necessary to produce Neroli essential oil. In fact, 1 ton of orange blossoms are required to produce one quart of Neroli oil. Neroli oil is the extracted essential oil of fragrant blossoms from the bitter orange tree (Citrus aurantium sub.sp amara). However, before the orange blossoms may be used in the distillation process to produce essential oil, all traces of debris, including green leaves and twigs, must be removed by hand.
Features/Benefits:
Neroli oil is a middle (heart) note. Middle notes are essential oils that possess flowery or spicy scents and may promote emotional balance. Neroli oil is well known for its mentally and physically relaxing properties. Mentally, Neroli oil may be used to calm panic, shock, depression, mental exhaustion or anxiety and may also assist with insomnia. These benefits may be achieved by deeply inhaling the fragrance or by rubbing a drop or two directly onto the solar plexus. Physically, Neroli oil may assist with menstrual cramps by adding it to a bath or by diluting it to 10% in pure apricot oil, which can then be gently massaged into the abdomen. It is also believed that Neroli oil contains anti-bacterial and anti-parasitic properties, which may make it possible to support intestinal disorders. As well, Neroli oil possesses anti-spasmodic properties that may settle a racing heart and heart palpitations.
Above and beyond the physical benefits just mentioned, Neroli oil might be most respected for its ability to assist the body with healthy skin. For best results Neroli oil should be blended with a hypoallergenic carrier lotion or base cream rather than a carrier oil. When applied regularly to the skin, Neroli oil has been noted to improve varicose veins, skin elasticity and the body’s ability to develop new skin cells, while working to soften the skin, wrinkles and scars. Neroli oil may also be able to regulate oiliness, minimize enlarged pores and clear blemishes.
Finally, Neroli oil has a uniquely strong scent that appeals to both men and women, which allows Neroli oil to claim the benefits of an aphrodisiac, providing a combination of physical and mental benefits.
Neroli oil blends well with: Cedarwood oil, Cinnamon oil, Clary Sage oil, Clove oil, Geranium oil, Jasmine oil, Lavender oil, Lemon oil, Myrrh oil, Rose oil, and Sandalwood oil.
Copyright © 2007 Tawne Bachus
Disclaimer: The information in this article is not provided by a medical professional and is not intended as a substitute for medical advice. Please consult your physician before beginning any course of treatment.
Tawne Bachus is the current Vice President of Essential Dynamics, Inc. (http://essential-dynamics.com), a leading provider of undenatured whey protein, essential oils and other products for essential living. For more information on these three subjects, please visit the Essential Dynamics Blog Home Page (http://blog.essential-dynamics.com) or to purchase these products online, please visit Essential Dynamics Online Shopping Cart (http://shop.essential-dynamics.com).
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