Technical data
- Product Name: Bitter Orange
- Latin name: Citrus aurantium
- Extraction: Cold-pressed
- Origin:
- Parts used:
- Origin of parts:
- CAS: 68916-04-1
Features
- Scent: Fresh, zesty orange with a distinctly bitter, tangy edge and dry, slightly floral-woody undertones.
- Scent type: Citrus smells
- Note: Top
- Color: Yellow to orange, sometimes with a slight cloudiness or sediment typical of expressed citrus oils.
- Viscosity: Thin; a mobile, free-flowing liquid.
Blends with
Mediterranean Morning
Purpose
- A fresh, uplifting diffuser blend to start the day.
- Recipe
3 drops Bitter Orange + 2 drops Petitgrain + 1 drop Lavender in the diffuser.
Spiced Citrus Evening
Purpose
- A warm, cosy diffuser accord for winter nights.
- Recipe
3 drops Bitter Orange + 1 drop Cinnamon + 1 drop Clove in the diffuser.
Dillution guideline
- Because this oil is phototoxic, keep skin dilution at or below approximately 1.25% in a carrier oil for anything applied to sun-exposed skin. Rinse-off products and diffusion are not affected.
- Patch test
Apply a small diluted amount to the inner forearm and wait 24 hours before wider use.
- Children
Keep out of reach of children; for children over 3, use only at very low dilution and consult a qualified aromatherapist. Take extra care given the phototoxic risk on young skin.
- Pregnancy
If pregnant or nursing, consult a healthcare professional before use.
- Pets
Keep away from pets; this oil is very high in limonene, which is of particular concern for cats. Diffuse only in ventilated, well-aired spaces and never apply to animals.
- Photosensitivity
PHOTOTOXIC. Cold-pressed bitter orange peel oil contains furocoumarins (notably bergapten) and can cause severe burns or lasting pigmentation on skin exposed to sunlight or UV. Avoid sun and sunbeds for at least 12-18 hours after applying to skin, keep well within the phototoxic dilution limit, or choose a steam-distilled (furocoumarin-free) grade for daytime skin use.
- Ingestion
Do not ingest unless under qualified professional guidance.
- Storage
Store tightly closed in a cool, dark place away from heat and light; citrus oils are limonene-rich, oxidise readily, and are best used within about 12 months of opening.
