Petitgrain

Botanical ID

Citrus Aurantium Amara

Plant part used

Leaves & twigs

Place of origin

France, North Africa & Paraguay

Description

The oil of Petitgrain is produced from the leaves and twigs of the same tree that produces bitter orange and Neroli oil.

Characteristics

A fresh floral citrus scent and a woody herbaceous undertone.

Method of extraction

Steam distillation.

General

Petitgrain name means ‘little grains’ as it was originally distilled from unripe fruit rather than the leaves. It is a classic ingredient in Eau de Cologne.

Blends well with

Bergamot, Cedarwood, Clary sage, Geranium, Lavender, Lime, Jasmine, Neroli, Orange, Palmarosa, Rosemary, Rosewood, Sandalwood and Ylang Ylang.

Indications

Mind & Spirit – Calms anger and panic. Considered to be uplifting and refreshing, (similar to Neroli which is used for more severe states of depression). Petitgrain relates more to the conscious intellectual aspect of the mind whereas Neroli activates the highest psychic or spiritual levels of the mind.

Body – Sedative effect on the nervous system, relaxing for rapid heartbeat or insomnia. Has deodorizing properties.

Skin & Hair – Tonic effect on the skin and helpful for clearing skin blemishes and pimples.