Orange Sweet (Citrus Sinensis)
History and Character
Smaller than the bitter orange that produces neroli oil, the sweet orange tree is not so hardy and has softer , broader leaves. Native to China, it is now cultivated where ever there is a Mediterranean climate. The oil is pressed out of the orange skin and is mainly produced in Israel, Brazil and North America.
The dried orange peel has been used in Chinese medicine for centuries, the sweet orange being though to increase bronchial excretion. The tree is also a traditional sign of good luck and prosperity. In Europe the oil has been used for nervous disorders, heart problems, colic, asthma, and melancholy.
Energetically, this oil is very happy, positive, young, and playful. Since it is a gentle option for stomach upsets and nervousness that are not deep rooted I use it a lot with youngsters. Orange encourages a more playful outlook on life, helping to move built up stress and frustration. It is a good oil for the perfectionist and those who try too hard. It encourages a more easy going attitude.
Principal Uses - Physical
Constipation - Mouth ulcers - Obesity - Youngsters tummy aches
Behavioural
Anxious to please - Depression - Insecure - Nervous tension -
I most often Use Sweet Orange For:
Young dogs with a nervous disposition who feel stressed by learning to the point of explosion, especially if there is a history of stomach upsets or overeating.
A good "helper" oil when a little lift is needed.
Extraction and Characteristics
Cold-pressed out of the ripe outer peel. The oil is a pale, burnt orange, mobile liquid.
Fragrance: A sweet, fresh, fruity, warm odour.
Actions: Antispasmodic, calmative, carminative, cholagogic, digestive, hepatic, stomachic.
Safety & Cautions
Generally held to be non-toxic, non-irritant and non-sensitizing. Since regular cultivation uses high levels of pesticide and can contaminate the oil it is important to use organic orange.
Maximum dilution: 5 drops in 5ml/ 1 tsp.
Reference: The Aromatic Dog: Nayana Morag