Orange Bitter - Bitter orange essential oil
Imagine a bunch of fresh, flavorful oranges infusing the air with an energizing and invigorating scent as you begin your morning session ... creating a sense of peace, calm, and attunement to the day. This is one of the many amazing benefits of bitter orange essential oil. The essential oil comes from the skin of the fruit of the bitter orange tree (Citrus aurantium var. Amara), which is obtained by cold pressing, its sister Petitgrain comes from the leaves and twigs of the same tree, and Neroli comes from its fragrant white flowers.

Although the therapeutic properties of bitter orange essential oil are considered to be very similar to sweet orange essential oil, some aromatherapy users believe that bitter orange essential oil appears to be more effective and often produces better results than sweet orange essential oil.

Bitter Orange essential oil is not as well known in aromatherapy as its sweet version (Sweet Orange), yet this essential oil offers a wide range of health benefits for both trained aromatherapists and home enthusiasts. As the name suggests, this essential oil has a refreshing citrus scent with a hint of bitterness, its aroma is reminiscent of a cross between the sweetness of sweet orange essential oil and the slight bitterness of grapefruit essential oil. Bitter orange essential oil is phototoxic, so avoid UV radiation and tanning beds for 24 hours after use.
In Chinese medicine, it is used to treat loss of appetite, coughs and colds, and to stimulate the digestive system. Bitter orange essential oil has antibacterial, antiseptic, astringent and anti-inflammatory properties. It helps to fight diarrhea, bloating and stomach pain, as well as colds. Not only does this oil smell refreshing, but it has a calming, uplifting effect on the mood, while being mildly sedating and good for stress and insomnia.