Orange Oil, also known as the "sweet orange essential oil" is derived from the peel of the orange fruit that grows on the Citrus Sinensis plant. Though it is not as common an essential oil as compared to tea tree essential oil or peppermint oil, the orange essential oil has been sought out for centuries because of its health-related benefits.
Benefits of Orange Oil
Orange Essential Oil contains two main components that contribute to its benefits. One of the most prominent active ingredients is D-Limonene which makes up roughly 90% of the oil extracted. Known for its powerful antioxidant properties, Limonene helps actively fight the presence of free radicals that can cause damage to the skin and the body as a whole. Another component in the oil which is not present in a significant quantity but is still very potent is Myrcene. Myrcene makes up roughly 0.5-3 % of the total extract's composition. This component helps fight inflammation and is thus very beneficial in the treatment of inflammatory diseases and helps in relieving pain.
Thus, briefly, some of the major benefits of Orange essential oil are:
- Acts as an anti-inflammatory agent, and reduces any inflammation of the skin.
- Kills bacteria and pathogens that may cause harm to the body and skin.
- It helps promote healthy blood circulation in the body.
- Promotes healthy skin by helping even the skin tone and texture, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
- Acts as a great source of relaxation for those who are suffering from hypertension or anxiety as it helps to calm one down significantly.
- It improves the immune function of the body which prepares the body to strongly counteract any infections and ailments.
- For those who suffer from frequent cold and allergies, orange oil will help build resistance of the body towards the infection.
- Said to be helpful in treating low libido as the oil can increase the testosterone levels in men and estrogen levels in women.
- Stimulates the digestive system and thus helps those who suffer from poor digestion, diarrhea and lack of hydration in the body.
You can check out Anveya's Brazilian Orange Essential oil relieves inflammation and uplifts your mood. This sweet citrus blend extracted from fresh orange peels has a cleansing and anti-ageing effect on your skin.
ANVEYA ORANGE ESSENTIAL OIL, 100% PURE, 15ML
- Great for SKIN, FACE & ACNE
- Hair Health: Prevents CLOGGED PORES or the formation of fungal infections.
- Mood-Lifting AROMATHERAPY: Enjoy the fresh, citrusy aroma
Uses of Orange Essential Oil
Given the numerous health benefits of the essential oil, it can be used in a lot of different ways to specifically target a particular health concern. Here are some of the common uses of the Orange essential oil that finds application in one's day to day life.
1. Immunity Enhancer
A monoterpene is a chemical compound that is found in abundance in different plants, fruits and vegetables. One such monoterpene is D-Limonene which is monocyclic in nature. Forming the bulk of the orange oil extract, it is present in the peel of the fruit. Just as other monoterpenes, D-Limonene acts as a defender against oxidative stress and helps in faster regeneration of cells. This, in turn, helps major functions of the body to keep running smoothly and help one to lead a balanced life.
Also Read : 9 Benefits of Orange Oil for Health (Infographic)
2. Natural Antibacterial
Any essential oil that has been made from citrus fruits such as the orange essential oil act as natural antibacterial agents that fight against microbes. According to extensive research that was conducted on the benefits of orange oil in terms of its antibacterial properties, it was found that the oil could restrain the proliferation of E-coli bacteria. This E-coli bacterium is a common bacterium that is found in abundance in foods that are packed, especially canned meat and packed vegetables and fruits. When consumed, the bacteria can lead to serious health issues such as kidney failure, liver poisoning and in some cases even death. The use of Orange oil can reduce the chances of this occurring. Another bacterial infection that can be curbed by using this oil is that caused by Salmonella which attacks one's digestive system which in turn leads to gastrointestinal infections, fever and diarrhea.
3. Kitchen Cleaner
The Orange essential oil is antibacterial in nature not only ensures that it prevents the contamination of foodstuffs, but it can also keep your home clean. The oil has a very strong yet naturally sweet and citrusy fragrance that acts as a perfect additive to your home cleaners. All you have to do is add a couple of drops of the essential oil into a spray bottle along with water and cleansing oil such as bergamot oil. Spray this all over your countertops, kitchen appliances and even your cutting board if you want to. You can even replace the bergamot oil with a carrier oil such as coconut oil if you desire. Wipe it after a few minutes from the surface and you will be left with a clean and delicious smelling kitchen in no time. Another added advantage of using this oil as a kitchen cleaner is that it is completely safe if consumed, so you do not have to worry about that at all.
4. Circulation Booster
The Orange essential oil, when used in conjunction with any carrier oil such as coconut oil or almond oil can be used as a homemade massage oil. Rubbing it onto the body, especially onto the abdominal area can stimulate blood flow, thus improving the circulation of blood to all the parts of the body. The advantage of doing this is that it helps fight high blood pressure. This, in turn, reduces the risk of many heart-related diseases as the blood flow to the heart is regulated. Apart from this, the blood-dialling properties of the oil work wonder in helping improve one's libido. Other advantages of boosting blood circulation are instant relief from migraine-related headaches as well as PMS-related symptoms.
5. Anti-inflammatory
When studies were conducted on the benefits of Orange essential oil in 2009, according to conclusions drawn by the research team in the European Journal of Medical Research, it was found that the orange oil had the high anti-inflammatory properties. Thus, the orange oil's anti-inflammatory properties make it a perfect remedy against pain and infections. It can also be used to provide relief against chronic pulmonary diseases.
6. Pain Reducer
Another advantage of the anti-inflammatory properties of the Orange essential oil is that it acts as a natural remedy against bone and joint pain. The oil helps to turn off the inflammatory response of the body towards any pain that is felt in the joints, muscles and bones in the body. At the same time, the fragrance of the oil will help put one in a pleasant and positive mood which in turn helps to increase the tolerance towards pain in the body. Eventually, it also helps one sleep better when sore. All you have to do is rub a couple of drops of the essential oil mixed in with carrier oil onto the sore muscles before you sleep at night. You will wake up feeling a lot better and refreshed as well.
7. Mood Booster
The orange essential oil has a direct impact on the olfactory system of the brain which in turn helps evoke quick emotional responses. Diffusing Orange oil in your home or adding a couple of drops of the oil into your bath water is said to directly lift your mood, bringing about a sense of calmness and relaxation. This is attributed to the fact that the oil helps to regulate the stress hormone cortisol. Cortisol is a hormone that is responsible for one's reaction to stressful situations. Thus, the essential oil uplifts one's mood and calms one down by making sure that the cortisol hormone is under check.
8. Skin Saver
Generally, citrus fruits such as lemons and oranges are used as natural ingredients in skin products as they contain high amounts of Vitamin C which help protect and heal the skin. Thus, the Orange essential oil is no different in promoting healthier skin. The Vitamin C present in the oil releases antioxidants which protect the skin against damage that is caused by free radicals emitted from the Sun's rays, pollution and other toxic compounds. Apart from this, the oil also fights the first signs of premature ageing of the skin such as the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines as it helps regulate the collagen production of the skin which is responsible for its elasticity.
All you really have to do is apply a few drops of the Orange essential oil mixed in with a carrier oil such as almond oil. You can even combine it with oils such as tea tree oil and frankincense oil that have further added benefits for the skin. However, it is important to do a patch test of the oil on the skin to make sure that you do not develop an allergy to it.
Also Read : Orange Oil for Skin - Benefits and Side Effects
9. To control acne
Apart from promoting an overall healthy skin, more specifically, the Orange essential oil also helps counteract the formation of acne and pigmentation. The anti-inflammatory properties combined with the richness of Vitamin C prevent redness, swelling and pain that occur as a result of acne. The oil also helps dry out any acne that is already present when used consistently. You can apply a tiny amount of the oil onto a cotton ball and apply it directly to the affected area for best results. You can even mix it with oils such as cinnamon oil and geranium oil in case you want to make it more potent.
10. Digestion Booster
The anti-inflammatory and circulatory properties of the essential oil make it a perfect solution to fight any digestion-related issues such as constipation and stomach cramps. To get instant relief from stomach cramps, massage a couple of drops of warm oil onto the abdominal region. Orange oil is a mild diuretic which means that it helps prevent bloating in the body and increases the production of urine. Which helps flush out toxins from the body in the form of excess sodium from the digestive tract, making sure that your kidneys, liver, bladder and lymphatic system are healthy.
11. For improving dental hygiene
The antibacterial and antimicrobial properties of the orange oil also make it helpful in ensuring that dental hygiene is maintained. Gargling water mixed with a few drops of the oil and salt can instantly provide relief to a sore throat while also protecting the teeth and gums from any infections. This gargling also works in case you have a mouth ulcer or a cold sore. Alternatively, you can simply swoosh the oil in your mouth or practice oil pulling by mixing it with coconut oil.
Orange Oil Side Effects & Precautions to be taken
When essential oils are used in terms of health benefits, it is always a wise idea to buy one that is of high quality rather than one that has a cheaper price tag. This is simply because it is important to know the source of the essential oil and the Orange essential oil is no different. A high-quality bottle of oil will ensure that the fruit has not been sprayed with any harmful pesticides that may degrade its quality by imbibing into it, harmful toxins. Organic production processes ensure that the distillation method is done without the use of any chemical solvents. Thus, natural, high-quality and organic Orange oil is the way to go.
Apart from this, another precaution to take is that some citrus oils are photosensitive which means that they will degrade if exposed to direct sunlight. Though the Orange oil does not have a high photosensitivity quotient, it is still better to not expose it directly to the sun or to go out in the sun immediately after applying this oil.
Dilution is another important factor to keep in mind while using any essential oil. It is recommended to always mix the oil with a carrier oil such as coconut oil, almond oil or olive oil. Combine 1-2 drops of the Orange oil with 1-2 tbsp. of carrier oil before you use it to make sure that the oil is not too potent, especially while applying it directly onto the skin.
Orange Oil recipe
Making cold-pressed orange oil extract at home is pretty easy and ensures that it is all-natural as well. To make the oil, you need the peels of the Orange fruit, rather than the fruit itself.
- Peel the orange and dry the peels out in the sun until it becomes completely dry.
- Remove the white pith completely.
- Then cut the peels into small pieces so that you can use it in the garlic press.
- Heat the cut peels in the water at 45-50 degrees Celsius (110-120 degrees Fahrenheit).
- Pack the peels in the garlic press and squeeze them into a container.
- Approximately 20 peels are needed to extract a good amount of oil.
Recipe using Orange Essential Oil
1. Homemade Honey Citrus Shampoo Recipe
This homemade shampoo is the perfect blend of natural ingredients that is sure to restore your hair to its former glory, especially if you have been suffering from dandruff. It helps kill any bacteria, balances out the natural pH of the scalp while restoring natural oils and hydration to the hair. It ensures that the hair is not stripped of the oils that it needs and thus, looks healthy and lustrous.
Also Read : Orange Oil For Hair - Benefits, Usage and Side Effects
Ingredients
Equal ratios of Orange essential oil and Lemon essential oil i.e. about 5 drops of each
- 1 cup of water
- 5 tbsp. raw and preferably organic honey.
Directions
- Combine all the ingredients into a bowl and mix it into a consistent liquid.
- Transfer into a container and use in place of your shampoo.
2. Orange Oil and Honey Acne Treatment Recipe
For those who are suffering from dry, flaky and irritated skin, this homemade facemask using Orange oil is your best bet. It will not only calm your irritated skin but will also diminish the appearance of blemishes, acne, blackheads, dark pigmented spots and whiteheads that occur as a result of a bacterial infection on the skin. Inflammation and redness will also significantly reduce.
Ingredients
- 1:1 ratio of pure coconut oil and apple cider vinegar
- 15-20 drops of Orange essential oil
- 3 tbsp. of raw honey.
Directions
- Mix all the ingredients by using a hand blender into a smooth and consistent paste
- Apply this pack all over your face
- Let it rest for a couple of minutes before you can wash it off using lukewarm water.
- If you do end up making an excess of this mixture, you can store it in an airtight container in a cool place.
Thus, by using one simple essential oil, a variety of health issues can be treated and prevented as well. This makes the Orange essential oil budget-friendly beneficial oil that is a must-try for anyone who is suffering from the above issues and is looking for natural relief from those.
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