Many
essential oils are derived from citrus fruits. These oils are known for their fragrance and their soothing properties.
Petitgrain essential oil is one such oil. It is extracted through a process of distillation of the leaves of the bitter orange tree. Originally a native of China, this evergreen tree grows in abundance across the world, today.
Petitgrain oil has a soft floral yet woody fragrance. Due to its many therapeutic properties it is a widely used ingredient in several pharmaceutical products. Its medicinal values combined with its fragrance allow it to be a popular component in various cosmetic products too. Petitgrain oil has many therapeutic properties, these include:
Anti-Septic – Petitgrain oil is an antiseptic. It has the ability to fight off bacteria and microbes attacking the body. This is very important in the case of wounds, cuts, ulcers and lesions. Open wounds are susceptible to bacterial infections. These infections are known to spread rapidly if left unchecked. Also, if the wound gets septic, it can lead to severe complications. Petitgrain essential oil keeps the wound clean and protected.
Skin Care – Petitgrain essential oil can be found in many cosmetic ingredients because of its many benefits to the skin. Petitgrain oil helps maintain skin moisture. The older we get, the harder it is for our skin to remain hydrated. This results in wrinkles and dry skin. Petitgrain oil can help avoid this condition. This oil is also effective in fighting off acne and pimples by controlling the oil balance of the skin. When used after a shower, it leaves the skin moisturized, soft and refreshed.
Natural Deodorant – Petitgrain essential oil makes for a great natural deodorant. Its faint woody fragrance helps to mask any body odor. Body odor is caused by bacteria in the sweat prone regions of the body. Petitgrain inhibits this bacterial growth and therefore also targets the root cause of the odor.
Controls Spasms – Petitgrain oil helps control spasms in the body. Spasms can be incredibly painful and are the result of involuntary contractions of the muscles, nerves and tissues in the body. Being a natural relaxant, petitgrain oil eases and soothes the stressed muscles and nerves, providing relief to the body.
Nerve Tonic – Petitgrain oil works wonders on frayed nerves. Stress, anxiety and tension take a heavy toll on the nerves. This in addition to regular wear and tear leaves the nerves prone to afflictions. Petitgrain essential oil helps tone and strengthens the nerves. It also soothes them and fights off stress and anxiety.
Antidepressant – Petitgrain oil has a soothing and refreshing effect on the mind. This helps in the treatment of depression and other stress related disorders. Petitgrain oil has a soothing effect on the nervous system. This helps curb anxiety and tension. It also helps cure insomnia.
