Essential Oils

Petitgrain

citrus aurantium

General Description
Petitgrain, which means small grains (or fruits), is distilled from the fresh leaves and young branches of the tree. Historically, petitgrain was distilled from the immature, hard green fruit of the tree, hence its name. This soon proved to be uneconomical as the production of this oil diminished the yield of bitter orange oil from the mature fruit later in the season. Gradually the oil from the leaves and twigs became known as petitgrain. Today an oil is occasionally distilled from unripe fruit that has fallen from the tree.The scent is both stimulating and relaxing. France and Paraguay produce an excellent quality oil. A type of Petitgrain is also produced in small quantities using leaves, twigs and small unripe fruit of the lemon, sweet orange, mandarin and bergamot trees. Petitgrain oil is used as a flavoring agent in many foods, especially confectionery. There is also use as a fragrance component cosmetics, perfumes and colognes.

How It's Made
The steam distillation of the leaves and twigs from the same trees that provide Neroli Bigarade oil produces Petitgrain oil.

Aroma: Fresh, nutty scent.

Strength: Fairly Strong

Properties

Digestive Prevents Flatulence Increases Appetite Helps with Cramps Helps with Heartburn Reduces Nausea Nervous System Helps with Stress-Related Disorders Helps with Insomnia Helps with Nervous Strain Skin Reduces Acne Reduces Excessive Perspiration Tones Skin Helps with Oily Skin