Neroli is an essential oil very well known and widely used in aromatherapy. It is extracted by steam distillation from the flowers of orange trees (Citrus aurantium). The oil has a rich floral aroma, with a citrus note. It is used as a basis in perfumes, various aroma products and in cosmetic products.
The history of Neroli
Neroli oil dates back to the 17th century and was adored by Italian aristocrats. The Duchess of Bracciano – Anne Marie de la Tremole – put a few drops on her gloves and a few drops in the bathroom. It was also known as the Oil of Romance because it was used in wedding ceremonies because of its aphrodisiac property.
Useful properties
Neroli oil is present in many beauty products. Besides its gentle aroma has a number of useful properties, here are some of them:
- Refreshes the skin – neroli has a moisturizing effect and enhances the natural process of cell regeneration. It acts antibacterially and is used to treat acne and skin irritations. Rich in anti-oxydance by fighting free radicals, protecting and soothing the skin from inflammation.
- Helps with stress, anxiety and depression – the aroma of orange blossom oil acts therapeutically in mental disturbances. Inhaling helps him relax and free the mind from anxiety. Neroli causes the brain to release Serotonin and reduce cortisol levels, which is the stress hormone.
- Anti-inflammatory action – with external use soothes inflammation of the skin.
- Reduces pain at birth – research shows that the aroma of neroli reduces anxiety and pain in contractions from the first stage of birth.
- Regulating high blood pressure – reducing stress and the hormone cortisol, the oil helps to lower blood pressure as well.
The use of Neroli
Traditionally, neroli oil is used in cosmetics and aromatherapy. You can apply it directly to the skin or a few drops in the bath, in a diffuser or aromalamp, as well as combine it with other oils. If you mix it with base oil is great for massage as an addition to aromatherapy.
Although essential oils are very useful can also be toxic by causing an allergic reaction, therefore it is good to follow some precautions:
- Before using essential oil, it is nice to take a tolerability test – smear your hand on the inside of the elbow or wrist and wait 24 hours, if there is no reaction to the skin, you can use the oil calmly;
- Mix essential oils with base oils before applying to the skin, because they are quite strong. The amount is 3 to 6 drops of essential oil in about 30ml. basic (it can be olive oil, argan oil, almond oil, etc.).
