petitgrain

Petitgrain

Petitgrain is obtained from the bitter orange tree, as is neroli

Common Name:

Petitgrain

Botanical Name:

Citrus aurantium

Family:

Rutaceae

Location:

Africa, Haiti, Paraguay.

Extraction:

Steam distillation

Parts Used:

Leaves, Twigs

Color and Odor:

The essential oil is colorless with a hint of yellow. It has a fresh, invigorating fragrance with a sweet herbaceous undertone.

Background:

The essential oil of petitgrain was formerly distilled from the small (cherry sized), unripened fruits of the orange tree. This practice reduced the yield of the mature fruits, so petitgrain is now obtained from the leaves and twigs of the orange tree. It is an important ingredient in the original Eau-de-Cologne toilet water.

Properties:

Sedative, antidepressant, antispasmodic, antiseptic, digestive, nervine, stimulant, tonic.

Planet:

Element:

Direction:

Magical Influences:

Uses:

Nervous System—Sedative effect calms the nerves and aids insomnia.
Skin—Good for irritated or spotty skin.
Emotions—Petitgrain promotes mental clarity, preparing the intellect for further work by sharpening the thought processes. It strengthens the emotionally delicate, restoring faith and calming the anger of those experiencing a sense of betrayal.

Blends:

NERVOUS	SKIN	EMOTION
Petitgrain 7	Petitgrain 3	Petitgrain 6
Lavender 2	Geranium 2	Juniper 3
Chamomile (R)2	Bergamot 2	Orange 3

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