Scents & Sensibility Newsletter - Volume II - Issue 4 - February 1, 2001

Scents of Amour - Neroli (Citrus Aurantium)

Princess, Anne-Marie de la Tremoille of Nerola, a powerful and influential woman in seventeenth century Italy, is credited with popularizing this exotic essential oil. The Italian princess was said to use this oil from the Bitter Orange Tree to scent her gloves and her bath and wore the oil as a perfume; the oil has been referred to as Neroli ever since.

Neroli the Aphrodisiac

Neroli, like Jasmine and Rose, is a well known aphrodisiac, calming anxiety, reenergizing and instilling confidence. A natural tranquilizer,. Neroli can be hypnotic and euphoric, particularly when applied through a massage oil. The white blossoms are a traditional sign of purity and are used in bridal bouquets as they are believed to soothe and calm the bride's nerves. Neroli can also relieve premenstrual stress and soften the irritability and emotions that sometimes accompany menopause. Neroli has a heady, sweet, fruity scent and is used as a middle to base note in many of the worlds finest perfumes.

The light yellow oil is steam distilled from the blossom of the bitter orange tree, some times known as the Seville orange. It requires one ton of blossoms to make two pounds of essential oil, making it one of the world's most expensive oils.

While normally used as a middle or base note, neroli can be used as a top note as it is in Paloma Picasso perfume. Neroli blends with many scents including frankincense, geranium, jasmine, lavender, lemon, lime, myrrh, rose, sandalwood and ylang ylang.

Neroli the Healer

The therapeutic effects of Neroli have been acknowledged since at least the first century. As an antiaging agent Neroli helps regenerate skin cells and is particularly effective on mature skins. Neroli also helps with acne, scarring and stretchmarks.

Neroli is an antidepressant, antiseptic, antisposmodic, bactericidal, deodorant, emollient and tonic. It can be used as a heart regulator, blood cleanser and to improve circulation. Neroli also eases the pain of neuralgia and headaches. Synephrine, a constituent of citrus aurantium is used in many cold medications and is also touted as an aid in weight loss.