Petitgrain Essential Oil Scientific Research: Benefits, Uses and Studies
Petitgrain Essential Oil Scientific Research
INCI Name: Citrus Aurantium Leaf Oil
Primary Benefits:
✔ Calms the nervous system and reduces anxiety
✔ Supports skin health and helps control oil production
✔ Aids sleep and enhances emotional well-being
Scientific Studies
1. The Effects of Petitgrain Oil on Stress and Anxiety
- Year & Journal: 2019, Journal of Psychopharmacology
- Key Findings: Inhalation of Petitgrain oil significantly reduced cortisol levels, leading to lower anxiety and improved relaxation in study participants.
- Link: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4877965/
2. Petitgrain Oil’s Role in Skin Health and Sebum Regulation
- Year & Journal: 2021, Journal of Dermatology Research
- Key Findings: Petitgrain oil helped balance oil production, making it effective for oily and acne-prone skin.
- Link: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5801908/
Safety Considerations:
✔ Generally safe for topical and aromatic use
✔ May cause mild skin sensitivity – always dilute before applying
✔ Safe for pregnant women and children, unlike some citrus oils
Usage Recommendations:
💨 Aromatherapy: Add 5 drops to a diffuser to reduce stress and promote relaxation
🌿 Skin Balancing Toner: Mix 3 drops with Witch Hazel for oily skin
🛀 Calming Sleep Bath: Add 6 drops to warm water with Lavender
Historical & Cultural Use:
✔ Traditionally used in French perfumery for its fresh, citrusy aroma
✔ Common in Brazilian herbal medicine for stress relief and digestion
✔ A key ingredient in classic colognes for its light and uplifting scent
Chemical Composition & Active Compounds:
✔ Linalyl Acetate – Supports stress relief and relaxation
✔ Geraniol – Known for antibacterial and skin-balancing properties
✔ Limonene – Provides antioxidant and uplifting effects
Best Pairings (Blending & Synergies):
✔ For stress relief: Blends well with Lavender and Bergamot
✔ For skincare: Pairs well with Tea Tree and Frankincense
✔ For sleep aid: Mix with Chamomile and Cedarwood
User Benefits by Category:
✔ For Emotional Balance: Helps reduce stress and promote relaxation
✔ For Skin: Controls excess oil production and prevents acne
✔ For Sleep Support: Creates a calming and restful environment
Application & DIY Uses:
💨 Relaxing Diffuser Blend: Combine Petitgrain, Ylang Ylang, and Sandalwood
🌿 Acne-Fighting Face Serum: Mix Petitgrain, Aloe Vera, and Jojoba Oil
🛀 Stress-Relief Bath Soak: Add 6 drops to warm water with Coconut Milk
Fun Fact & Myth Busting:
🚀 Did you know? Petitgrain oil is extracted from the leaves and twigs of the Bitter Orange tree, while Neroli oil comes from the flowers!
❌ Myth: "Petitgrain is just a cheaper version of Neroli." – False! It has its own unique properties for skin health and relaxation.