Petitgrain Essential Oil

Latin name Citrus aurantium var amara – Family species Rutacea

Petitgrain is also seen with other various spellings such as Petitgraine, Pettigraine, and Pettitgrain, and is also sometimes referred to as Citrus bigaradia (or bigardia), Petitgrain Bigarade, and Petitgrain Paraguay. Petitgrain has a history of being used in eau de colognes.

“The aroma is relaxing for insomnia and tension, and regenerating for convalescence and weariness. The popular fragrance is deodorizing, counters greasiness and acne in skin creams, and is ideal for massage, bath oils, hair rinses, and perfumes.” –Crabtree & Evelyn Fragrant Herbal: Enhancing Your Life with Aromatic Herbs and Essential Oils

“It [Petitgrain essential oil] has a positive effect on the nervous system and is helpful in cases of stress, depression, nervous exhaustion and stress-induced insomnia.” –Alternative Health Therapies: The Complete Guide to Aromatherapy, Massage, and Reflexology

Oil Selection Guide

Color – Pale yellow to amber
Viscosity – Watery
Scent – Sharp, warm, floral, sweet, green, fresh, citrusy, woody, herby undertone
Perfume Aroma – Top / middle note

Oil Source Information

Plant Type – Tree
Parts Used – Leaves, twigs, unripe fruit
Countries of Origin – France, Italy, Tunisia, United States, North Africa, Haiti, Paraguay, Brazil, Morocco
Extraction Method – Steam distillation

Known Chemical Constituents

linalyl acetate, linalol, geranyl acetate, nerol, terpineol, nerolidol, geraniol, farnesol, limonene

Applications and Uses

Petitgrain is used in aromatherapy and as fragrance in soaps, cosmetics, detergents, colognes, and perfumes. It can also be found as a flavoring in commercial food and drinks.

Petitgrain blends well with

Precautions / Contraindications

See Essential Oils Safety and Usage.

References and Resources

See Aromatherapy References and Resources page.

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