Essential Oil Spotlight: Neroli

Neroli (Citrus aurantium) essential oil is extracted from flowers of the bitter orange tree. Its scent is somewhat floral with citrus undertones. It smells sweet, delicate, and slightly bitter at the same time.

The orange flower was named after the princess Anne-Marie, countess of Neroli, who used it to perfume her bath water. It is now considered one of the finest perfumery ingredients and is particularly important in eau-de-cologne toilet water. The flowers were once popularly used in bridal bouquets to symbolize innocence and fertility.

Some properties of this oil include antibacterial, antidepressant, anti-infectious, antiparasitic, antiseptic, antispasmodic, antiviral, aphrodisiac, deodorant, sedative, and tonic.

Historically, neroli has been regarded by the Egyptian people for its great attributes of healing the mind, body, and spirit. It brings everything into the focus of one and at the moment.

Today, neroli essential oil is commonly used for anxiety, emotional balance, relaxing, sensitive skin, and stress. It may also support the digestive system and may help inhibit bacterial infections, parasites, and viruses. Other possible uses include insomnia, menopause, PMS, stress-related conditions, and skin conditions.

The body systems affected by neroli essential oil include the digestive system and skin.

Applications of Neroli Essential Oil and Safety Data

Topical Application: Neroli essential oil can be used neat (with no dilution). Apply to reflex points and/or directly on area of concern.
Aromatic Application: Diffuse, or inhale the aroma directly. The aroma of neroli has some powerfully soothing psychological effects. It is calming and relaxing to the body and spirit. It may also help to strengthen and stabilize the emotions and bring relief to seemingly hopeless situations. It encourages confidence, courage, joy, peace, and sensuality.
Internal Application: Neroli essential oil can be taken internally. Try diluting 1 drop of neroli essential oil in 1 tsp. (5 ml) honey or 4 oz. (125 ml) of beverage (such as non-dairy milk). It is not to be used for children under 6 years of age and should be used with caution and in greater dilution for children over 6 years of age.
Safety Note: Consult with a physician before using if pregnant or being treated for a medical condition.

5 Ways to Use Neroli Essential Oil

1. Diffuse
Here are a few great diffuser blends to help you calm down when stressed, anxious, or needing to sleep:

  

2. Use in a Massage Oil
Neroli essential oil is very calming to the body and mind. When you get feeling too stressed or anxious, try massaging one of these blends into your tense muscles.

Common carrier oils to use for massage include Fractionated Coconut Oil, Coconut Oil, Sweet Almond Oil, or Jojoba Oil.

3. Roll on for quick help in calming down or soothing digestive pains.

Stress and anxiety follow us wherever we go, so making this Stress Relief Roll-on for on-the-go use can help during those difficult times. Neroli is also beneficial for those who suffer from insomnia or sleep issues, as it helps to relax the mind and calm any emotions that prohibit sleep. Try the Sleep Restfully Roll-on when you have restless nights. Aside from its calming and relaxing properties, neroli is also helpful for the digestive system and may help inhibit bacteria, infections, parasites, and viruses. If you are experiencing digestive pains, chronic diarrhea, colic, or intestinal spasms, try rolling the Digestive Support blend on your abdomen.

4. Add to a Relaxing Bath
Neroli calms and slows the mind and is useful for insomnia, hysteria, and all states of anxiety and depression. Combine one of the following oil blends with 1/4–1/2 cup (60–120 g) epsom salt, and evenly disperse throughout the tub. Alternatively, you can add these essential oil combinations to these bath bombs. These blends can also be used in a diffuser, roll-on, or linen spray.

5. Create a Peaceful Atmosphere for Romance or Meditation

The reputed aphrodisiac quality of neroli stems from its ability to calm any nervous apprehension that may be felt before a sexual encounter. Neroli can be a means of overcoming sexual difficulties that rise from anxiety or tension. The traditional use of orange blossom in bridal wreaths arose from this property of neroli, though it has long been forgotten.
Try diffusing this blend or use it in a linen spray:

Neroli also helps in creating a peaceful atmosphere when it is used in meditation. Diffuse neroli essential oil (or the Peaceful Romance blend above), and rub a drop of the oil over the heart to achieve a calm heart and relaxed mind.

5. Nourish Your Skin
Neroli is beneficial for all skin types, especially if there is dryness, redness, or irritation. Neroli stimulates the regeneration of new cells and the elimination of old ones, improving skin’s elasticity. It is generally helpful for all kinds of skin problems such as thread veins, scarring, and stretch marks. Try using the blend below as a facial cream or skin cream to help nourish your skin.

Sources:
Modern Essentials: A Contemporary Guide to the Therapeutic Use of Essential Oils, 9th Edition, p. 96.
Healing Oils: 500 Formulas for Aromatherapy by Carol & David Schiller
Aromatherapy: An A–Z by Patricia Davis
Aromatherapy Blends & Remedies by Franzesca Watson