Top 20 Benefits of Orange Essential Oil: Uses for Skin and Hair

Did you know that it takes approximately 50-100 oranges to produce just 15 ml of orange essential oil? This vibrant and aromatic oil, extracted from the rind of the orange fruit, has been a staple in traditional medicine and aromatherapy for centuries. 
Bursting with a sweet, citrusy scent, Orange essential oil is not just a delight for the senses but also packs a plethora of health and beauty benefits.

What experts say -

"Limonene, the primary component of orange essential oil, is not just a pleasant scent. It's a powerful antioxidant that can combat free radicals, making the oil a potent ally for skin health” - Dr Aruna Purohit

Read - Essential Oils 101 – How To Find The Best Ones For You?

Top 20 Orange Essential Oil Benefits For Skin, Hair & Health

Orange essential oil is more than just a fragrant delight; it's a treasure trove of benefits waiting to be tapped. The oil is primarily extracted from the peel of the orange fruit, which contains the highest concentration of beneficial compounds.

What experts say -

"The limonene in orange essential oil doesn't just benefit the skin; it's a boon for hair too. It adds a natural shine and helps in maintaining the natural oil balance of the scalp." - Dr Aruna Purohit

From its mood-lifting aroma to its skin-enhancing properties, this citrus gem has been cherished in various cultures for its wide range of uses. Let's peel back the layers and explore the benefits that this sunny oil has to offer -

1. Energy Booster: 

The invigorating and refreshing scent of orange essential oil can help alleviate feelings of fatigue, rejuvenating the senses and providing a natural energy boost.

2. Antibacterial Agent: 

The oil possesses natural antibacterial properties that make it effective against certain strains of bacteria. This makes it a valuable addition to natural cleaning solutions.

3. Mood Enhancer: 

The uplifting aroma of orange essential oil has been known to alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety, promoting a positive mood and emotional balance.

4. Skin Health: 

Orange essential oil can improve skin complexion by promoting clarity, radiance, and smoothness. Its antiseptic properties can also help reduce acne outbreaks.

5. Anti-inflammatory: 

When applied topically with a carrier oil, orange essential oil can reduce inflammation, providing relief from swelling and redness.

6. Digestive Aid: 

The oil has carminative properties, which means it can help with digestion and reduce gas, providing relief from bloating and abdominal discomfort.

7. Muscle Soother: 

Its anti-inflammatory properties can provide relief from muscle aches, pains, and tension when used in massages.

8. Stress Reliever: 

The calming and soothing aroma of orange essential oil can help relieve stress, tension, and anxiety, promoting a sense of relaxation and peace.

9. Weight Management: 

Some studies suggest that the oil can support metabolism and weight loss efforts, though more research is needed in this area.

10. Boosts Immunity

Orange essential oil is rich in vitamin C, which plays a crucial role in strengthening the immune system. Regular use can help ward off common colds and other illnesses.

11. Freshens Breath: 

The antibacterial properties of orange essential oil can help kill bacteria in the mouth, leading to fresher breath.

12. Respiratory Relief: 

Inhaling the aroma can help relieve congestion, making breathing easier and providing relief from respiratory problems.

13. Oral Hygiene: 

Its antibacterial nature can help combat harmful bacteria in the mouth, promoting good oral health and preventing cavities.

14. Natural Insect Repellent:

The scent of orange essential oil can deter mosquitoes and other insects, making it a natural alternative to chemical repellents.

15. Improves Circulation: 

The oil can stimulate blood flow, ensuring that nutrients reach every part of the body, leading to overall improved health.

16. Promotes Relaxation:

The soothing aroma of orange essential oil promotes peace of mind, relaxation, and a sense of well-being.

17. Antioxidant Properties: 

The oil is a rich source of antioxidants that combat free radicals in the body, preventing premature aging and promoting youthful skin.

18. Air Purifier: 

When diffused, orange essential oil can purify the air by eliminating odors, airborne bacteria, and pathogens, creating a fresh and clean environment.

19. Calming Aroma: 

The sweet and citrusy scent of orange essential oil promotes a sense of well-being, relaxation, and calmness.

20. Free Radical Scavenger: 

Its antioxidant properties help neutralize free radicals, which can cause cellular damage and lead to premature aging.

Remember, while orange essential oil offers numerous benefits, it's essential to use it safely and only use the purest Orange Essential Oil. 

How To Use Orange Essential Oil Safely?

Not all orange oils are fit for consumption. Consult with a professional before ingesting any Orange Essential Oil and limit it to topical use on your own.

Here are few tips to remember for topical application -

• Dilution is Key: Never apply orange essential oil directly to the skin or scalp without diluting it first. Mix a few drops of the oil with a carrier oil like jojoba, almond, or coconut oil. A general guideline is to use 2-3 drops of essential oil per tablespoon of carrier oil.

• Spot Test: Before applying any essential oil mixture to a larger area of your skin, always conduct a patch test. Apply a small amount to a discrete area, like the inside of your wrist, and wait 24 hours to ensure there's no adverse reaction.

• Photosensitivity: Orange essential oil, especially the cold-pressed variety, can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. Avoid direct sun exposure for at least 12 hours after applying any product containing orange essential oil.
  
• Storage: Store orange essential oil in a cool, dark place to maintain its efficacy.

• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Consult with a healthcare professional before using orange essential oil during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.

• Avoid Contact with Eyes: Always be cautious and avoid getting the oil in your eyes.

How To Use Orange Essential Oil For Skin?

Using orange essential oil for the skin can be beneficial due to its antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. Here's how to use orange essential oil for skin:

• Facial Serum: Mix a few drops of orange essential oil with a carrier oil and apply it to your face as a rejuvenating serum. This can help improve skin complexion and reduce acne outbreaks.
  
• Body Lotion: Add several drops of orange essential oil to your regular body lotion or cream for added fragrance and skin benefits.
  
• Bath: Add 8-10 drops of orange essential oil to a warm bath for a relaxing and skin-nourishing experience. This can help soothe irritated skin and provide a calming aroma.
  
• Face Mask: Add a drop or two of orange essential oil to your regular face mask mixture for added skin benefits.

• Acne Treatment: Due to its antiseptic properties, orange essential oil can help reduce acne. Mix a drop with a teaspoon of carrier oil and apply it directly to the affected area.

• Anti-Aging: The antioxidant properties of orange essential oil can help combat signs of aging. Mix it with a carrier oil and apply it to areas with fine lines or wrinkles.

Read - 12 Best Essential Oils For Skin To Heal Skin Naturally

How To Use Orange Essential Oil For Hair?

Orange essential oil, with its pleasant aroma and beneficial properties, can be a great addition to your hair care routine. Here's how to use orange essential oil for hair:

• Scalp Massage Oil: Mix a few drops of orange essential oil with a carrier oil like coconut, jojoba, or almond oil. Massage this mixture into your scalp to stimulate blood circulation, promote hair growth, and reduce dandruff.

• Hair Mask: Add 5-10 drops of orange essential oil to your regular hair mask or conditioner. Apply it to your hair, focusing on the ends, and leave it on for 20-30 minutes before rinsing. This can help strengthen your hair and add a natural shine.

• Shampoo Boost: Add a few drops of orange essential oil to your regular shampoo. This not only imparts a refreshing fragrance but also helps in balancing scalp oils and enhancing hair luster.

• Hair Spray: Mix water, a few drops of orange essential oil, and a teaspoon of a carrier oil in a spray bottle. Use this as a hair spray for a refreshing scent and to tame frizz.

• Dandruff Treatment: Due to its antiseptic properties, orange essential oil can help combat dandruff. Mix a few drops with your regular hair oil or conditioner and apply it to your scalp.

• Hair Growth Serum: Combine orange essential oil with other hair-beneficial essential oils like rosemary and lavender. Mix these with a carrier oil and apply to the scalp regularly to promote hair growth.

• Natural Hair Perfume: If you want your hair to have a light, refreshing scent, you can lightly spritz a mixture of water and a few drops of orange essential oil onto your hair.
  
• Use Hair Products That Contain Orange Essential Oil: We recommend using Sanobar Hair Cleanser and Sanobar Hair Conditioner to get the best benefits of this essential oil for your hair.

Read - 12 Best Essential Oils For Hair That Work Wonders

What To Look For When Buying Orange Essential Oil?

When purchasing Orange essential oil, whether online or from a store specializing in natural products, it's crucial to ensure its quality and authenticity. 

Here's a guide to help you make an informed choice:

• Scientific Name: Always check the label for the scientific name. For genuine orange essential oil, it should read Citrus sinensis. Be cautious not to confuse it with bitter orange essential oil, which goes by the name Citrus aurantium.
  
• Purity: Ensure that the product you're purchasing is 100 percent pure orange essential oil. The label should clearly indicate this. If there are other ingredients, they should be listed.
  
• Packaging: Opt for oils packaged in dark-colored bottles. These bottles protect the essential oil from sunlight, which can degrade its quality and potency.
  
• Aroma Test: If you have the opportunity, take a moment to smell the oil before purchasing. Genuine orange essential oil should have a fresh, sweet, and unmistakably orange scent. If it doesn't, it's best to avoid it.
  
• Claims and Regulations: Be wary of products that make specific health claims. The FDA doesn't regulate essential oils in the same way it does medications. Any product asserting to treat particular health conditions should be approached with caution.
  
• Price: While you don't necessarily want to go for the cheapest option, be wary of prices that seem too good to be true. High-quality essential oils often require a lot of plant material to produce a small amount of oil, so they can be more expensive.
  
• Shelf Life: While orange essential oil has a relatively long shelf life, it's still a good idea to check for an expiration date to ensure freshness.

We recommend buying Kama Ayurveda’s Orange Pure Essential Oil that meets all the above mentioned quality standards as it is made from the best quality oranges sourced from Nagpur in India.