What do orange, lemon and grapefruit have in common? In addition to vitamins, they also have the amazing ability to instantly improve your mood! How to use their power in aromatherapy? Aromatherapist and phytotherapist Aneta Jirchářová writes about this, and she will guide you through the world of citrus essential oils.
The power of citrus scents
Citrus essential oils are popular for their fresh scent, which brings an instant dose of joy, good mood and concentration. They are obtained from the peel of citrus fruits such as oranges, tangerines, lemons, limes, grapefruits and bergamot. Their essential oil is stored in the cavities in the pericarp, and after pressing we obtain the precious essential oil. Many of us have certainly encountered citrus essential oil. It was enough to peel a Christmas orange, when we could not avoid splashing the liquid in our eyes, which was stored in the peel and waiting to be released.
Beware of the phototoxicity of pressed citrus oils
Pressed essential oils However, they have one disadvantage, namely their phototoxic properties, which is a high sensitivity to sunlight on the skin. Photosensitizing substances that mix with sweat and meet the sun's rays can cause unpleasant rashes on the skin, even painful blisters, in some cases leaving behind strong pigment spots. Unfortunately, this situation is most dangerous in the summer, when the sun is strongest. Fortunately, we don't have to give up citrus essential oils in the summer and can safely replace them with distilled citrus essential oilsDuring distillation, photosensitive substances disappear and are therefore safe.
The wide spectrum of effects of citrus oils
Citrus essential oils have a wide range of effects. They help fight viruses and bacteria, making them a great helper in preventing or during a cold. The scent of citrus is known for its uplifting effects, which can improve mood and reduce stress. And they can also support digestion and soothe an upset stomach.
Orange for a good mood
The magic of oranges that will put an instant smile on our faces. Essential oil of sweet orange It will improve your mood, dispel nervousness and bring joy to difficult days. Refreshing scent blood orange It brings joy of life, optimism and the necessary self-confidence.
Mandarin and tangerine for a peaceful sleep
Tropical tangerine essential oil, in whose bottle lies a charge of refreshment and playful childish joy. Depending on the degree of ripeness, from unripe to fully ripe mandarin, we can obtain various essential oils that will delight us with their refreshing and inspiring aroma. We must not forget the essential oil of tangerine, which has a calming effect and is suitable, for example, for easy falling asleep.
Lemon for tough days
Lemon essential oils, these are strong doses of energy and concentration. Just like mandarin, lemon can share with us two essential oils – from green or yellow lemon. The aroma of essential oil from unripe lemon peel will help us in situations when we are not sure of our decision. On the other hand, essential oil from ripe lemon peel helps us concentrate and dissolves negative emotions.
Lime for an exotic refreshment
Lime scent It slaps us in a good way if we start nodding off and not noticing things or people around us.
Bergamot for a calm mind
Exotic bergamot essential oil, which must not be missing in the so-called aroma suitcase. The scent of bergamot brings positive energy, calms an overwhelmed mind and smoothes out sharpened emotions.
Grep for inspiration every day
And finally, grapefruits, which bring inspiration and self-confidence. For example Pink grapefruit essential oil It helps us release the feeling that we have let ourselves down and does not allow us to blame ourselves for it. It lets it go, helps us learn from our mistakes and move on. And White grapefruit essential oil It refreshes both body and mind. It is suitable for those who "drive away their frustration with food".
Citrus Clan
You can see for yourself that the citrus clan is truly powerful and there is definitely plenty to choose from depending on your current emotional state. So don't hesitate and discover the magic of citrus essential oils for yourself!
Read Anet's previous article about "Natural Repellent" here.
For more information about Anet Jirchářová, click on her Aromatherapy flower website.
Buy 100% citrus essential oils here.
