The sweet orange oil is one of the most widely sold essential oils in the world. The oil is produced by pressing the fruit peel and fruit wall which contain around 0.3 to 2 percent essential oil.
The sweet orange oil has low viscosity and the color ranges from light to dark orange.
Essential oil of pressed orange peel contains d-limonene (ca. 90 percent), a monoterpene, which is one of the most common terpenes found in nature.
It also contains aldehydes such as citral, citronellal, decanal, octanal and small amounts of the esters neryl acetate and ethyl acetate.
Additional constituents are carotenoids that provide the orange color and flavonoids and pectin that are believed to be responsible for the antibacterial and antifungal properties of the oil.
The essential oil is antiseptic and anti-inflammatory and it has been used traditionally to treat ailments like constipation, gastritis, motion sickness, cramps, colic, obesity, fluid retention, bronchitis, mouth ulcers, nervous tension, depression and stress.
Oranges (the fruit) contain vitamin A, B, and C, calcium, copper, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, zinc, bioflavonoids, natural sugar, and pectin.
They are rich in antioxidants and can be helpful in strengthening the immune system and to treat colds and flu.
Due to the antiseptic properties of the oil, it may inhibit the growth of both bacteria and fungi.
It is thought to increases blood and lymphatic circulation and therefore might be helpful to treat edema and cellulite.
Additionally it has been used for high blood pressure.
The oil is said to be stimulating for the scalp and when used in massage oil it can be both refreshing and relaxing. Orange oil is also thought to be good for digestion.
[Read more about Sweet Orange…]
Herbal Resource
Latest posts by Herbal Resource (see all)
- What is White Mulberry used for? - February 26, 2023
Leave a Reply