Benefits Of Orange Essential Oil

Orange essential oil is popular and versatile. "Orange oil is uplifting to the spirit but calming to the body," explains certified aromatherapist Su Nimon of Journey Studios in Canton, Ohio. "It has a wonderful blend of properties and a rich, fruity scent that almost everyone loves." Orange essential oil is made by cold-pressing the rind of the orange itself, producing an oil that can be distilled and preserved. Aromatherapists use this multipurpose oil in a wide variety of applications.

Contains Vitamin C

Orange essential oil contains vitamin C because it comes from oranges. When we inhale any essential oil, the particles are so minute the interaction takes place in the capillaries of our lungs. The vitamin C in orange essential oil has direct access to the bloodstream through the lungs, rather than an oral vitamin that must be ingested and broken down in the stomach. "But don't inhale too much," warns Nimon. "Our lungs were not designed for that."

Helps Eliminate Gas, Relieve Muscle Tension

Orange essential oil is a carminative, which means it helps the body eliminate gas from the intestines. As an antispasmodic, it helps relieve muscle tension. Orange oil is also an anticoagulant, anti-inflammatory and antiseptic, according to the website Mountain Rose Herbs. When used as a diuretic, orange oil can help flush toxins from the body, according to the website Organic Facts. It can also be used to treat dermatitis and acne.

Helps Promote Relaxation

Orange essential oil is often used to help treat anxiety, insomnia and nervousness. "It is refreshing and relaxing when used in massage or in the bath," says Nimon, who is also a licensed massage therapist. The scent of orange is stress-reducing and uplifting. Sleep aid blends often contain orange oil for its pleasing scent. "I use orange essential oil in a blend to combat Season Affective Disorder in the wintertime," says Nimon. "It makes people think of sunshine and vacation." Orange oil is also an antidepressant that can be used to lift the mood, according to the website Organic Facts.

Blends Easily

Because almost everyone enjoys the scent of orange, Nimon often blends with other essential oils that have a less appealing scent. "Orange oil makes other oils more palatable," she says. "The effects of different oils are added in layers, but the properties of each separate oil remain intact."

Can Help Control Pests

Ants hate orange essential oil because it alters their pheromone trail and makes it difficult for them to find their way back to the nest, according to Nimon. For a natural pest control spray, combine orange essential oil with water and a little alcohol and spray it around the baseboards of your home.

Warnings

Orange essential oil is photosensitive, which means it causes your skin to darken in direct sunlight, according to Nimon. Avoid exposure to the sun after applying orange oil to your skin. Before applying orange or any essential oil to your skin, test a small area first. Do not ingest essential oils. They're for external use only. Essential oils are not intended to replace any medical treatment prescribed by your physician.