NEROLI (CITRUS AURANTIUM VAR AMARA)

This month's oil is suitably spring-like, breathtakingly expensive and worth every penny!!

There are two types of orange tree - the sweet orange (citrus sinensis) and the bitter orange (citrus aurantium) - it is the latter that produces this delightful oil from its delicate white flowers.

Neroli has a strong floral aroma that is both light and refreshing, calming and uplifting.  Sadly, there is a possibility that this lovely oil was named after Nero, but is more likely to have been named after the 17th century Italian princess of Nerola, Anna Maria de la Tremoille, who wore the oil in her gloves.

A key ingredient in classic eau de cologne, which in itself is a gentle tonic to the nervous system, Neroli seems to be most useful in conditions that are nervous in origin.  Reputed to be a superb sedative for cases of insomnia, an antidepressant and anti-anxiety remedy.  Mojay recommends this oil for "individuals who are emotionally intense and who are sometimes unstable and are easily alarmed and agitated".  This suggests that Neroli is useful for emotional shock and hysteria.

Another area where Neroli excels is that of the skin, since it is non-allergenic and reduces redness and irritation.  It is an oil that is good for all skin types, but especially for dry, sensitive skin and broken capillaries.  It also has the reputation for stimulating the growth of healthy new skin cells.

Neroli has been shown to reduce heart muscle contraction, so is useful in cases of palpitations and high blood pressure.

In respect of the digestive system, Neroli is effective in relieving smooth muscle contractions within the digestive tract, so should be useful in cases of diarrhoea, especially if caused by nervous tension.  In addition, orange flower water is recommended as a possible remedy for colic in children.

Lastly, this oil is non-toxic, non-irritating and non-sensitising, so is just about perfect ... apart from the price!!

Every blessing

Marie