Petitgrain - Citrus aurantium

Petitgrain oil was once extracted from unripe bitter oranges, harvested when they were still very green and tiny - hence the name Petit Grains - little grains. This was an uneconomic method of extraction, and the oil is now extracted from the leaves or young shoots. Bitter Orange [citrus aurantium] or Seville Orange is an evergreen tree up to about 30ft tall, with leathery, dark green leaves, fragrant white flowers, and orange fruit. There are different varieties of Petitgrain which come from the Sweet Orange, and other citrus trees.

Petitgrain, like Neroli oil [extracted from the Bitter Orange flowers] is an effective anti-depressant, and is particularly useful for cases of S.A.D. It has been described as a good comfort oil, and is an excellent choice for treating insomnia which has resulted from loneliness or unhappiness. Because of its comforting properties, it is an ideal remedy for convalescence.

In skin remedies, the oil is a gentle astringent and tonic - good for treating acne, and cases of oily dandruff and greasy hair. Add to a bath for a relaxing, deodorant bath - the oil also helps check excessive perspiration.