Extracted from the blooms of bitter orange trees (Citrus aurantium), neroli essential oil has a beautiful sweet citrus fragrance. Bitter orange trees are indigenous to China and Central Asia although these can now be found in other parts of the world including Algeria, Bulgaria, Morocco, Italy, Spain, Turkey and Tunisia.

It is useful in treating depression, as well as high blood pressure, hemorrhoids and circulatory problems. Neroli essential oil is also known to have positive effects on sensitive, dry skin.

Benefits of Neroli Essential Oil

Neroli oil has a wide variety of  health benefits, resulting in a broad range of therapeutic uses, including:

• Antidepressant – Thanks to its incredibly uplifting aroma, neroli essential oil has been shown to naturally improve a person’s mood, invoking relaxed feelings of joy and happiness. For this reason, the oils is incredibly popular in aromatherapy.
• Aphrodisiac – The scent of neroli oil doesn’t just increase libido and awaken sexual arousal, but it also helpful in treating erectile dysfunctions. Traditionally, newly-wedded couples would spread Neroli on their wedding bed to enhance sexual intimacy and sooth their uneasiness.
• Antiseptic – Even a small cut or wound can be at risk of getting infected. Neroli oil can help protect wounds from infections effectively.
• Bactericidal – Neroli oil can kill bacteria and keep the body free from microbial infections. It is also useful for treating bacterial skin conditions and rashes
• Cicatrisant – Neroli possesses a whole host of anti-scarring properties. This is particularly useful in “erasing” acne scars, stretch marks, and other marks caused by pox and wounds.
• Cytophylactic – The cytophylactic effects of Neroli help maintain the health of skin cells and promote the growth of new ones. This keeps the skin’s elasticity, allowing it to remain supple while reducing unsightly lines and wrinkles.
• Disinfectant – Neroli oil is useful in disinfecting the body. When taken internally, it can help in treating infections of the colon, prostrate, urinary tracts and kidneys. When applied on the skin, it can cure infections and protect it from getting infected anew.
• Antispasmodic – This therapeutic effect helps relax the muscles of the body. This makes Neroli oil effective in providing relief from cramps and spasmodic aches.
• Sedative – Neroli benefits both the mind and body. Its calming and relaxing effect can help sedate the body’s organ systems and its metabolic functions. When used in combination with other essential oilssuch as lavender and chamomile, it has been shown to increase sleep quality and reduce night-time anxiety.
• Tonic – Neroli is an excellent overall tonic. It can help maintain the body’s metabolic rate and circulation while boosting the immune system.

With all its benefits, Neroli oil is very easy and safe to use on all types of skin. Non-sensitizing and non-irritating, this is one of the few citrus essential oils that is not phototoxic (i.e., damaging to the skin when exposed to light after application). If you’re into the sweet tangy smell of citrus, check out lemon essential oil.

Neroli Essential Oil Side Effects

Neroli essential oil does not seem to produce any side effects, but like many essential oils, it is not recommended for use with pregnant women or children. Some essential oils may cause irritation or allergic reactions in people with sensitive skin so it is wise to do a patch test before using regularly.