About the Oil
Neroli essential oil is distilled from the white blossoms of the bitter orange tree. Known for its beautifully sweet, citrusy-floral scent, it’s one of the most luxurious and mood-enhancing essential oils available. Because it takes a large number of delicate blossoms to produce even a small amount of oil, neroli is considered rare and precious.
Why You Would Use the Oil
Neroli is best known for calming the nervous system and uplifting the spirit. People reach for neroli when they want to:
· Feel more relaxed and emotionally grounded
· Ease symptoms of stress, anxiety, or overwhelm
· Support hormonal balance during menopause or menstruation
· Improve sleep and restfulness
· Boost sensuality and emotional connection
· Promote radiant skin and antioxidant protection
· Soothe discomfort, especially during labor or emotional intensity
Clinical Findings
| Study | Participants & Duration | Key Results | Reference |
| Menopause & Stress Study | 63 postmenopausal women inhaled neroli twice daily for 5 days | Improved physical symptoms in postmenopausal women | Choi et al., 2014 |
| Labor & Delivery Study | 88 women in labor |
Neroli aromatherapy reduced pain and helps at all labor stages |
Scandurra et al., 2022 |
| Anxiety Review | Review of multiple clinical trials and safety data | Confirmed calming effects | Bisson et al., 2024 |
Behind the Science (Made Simple)
Neroli works with your body’s natural chemistry—helping it come back into balance.
· Protects and revitalizes: It contains antioxidant compounds that help fight oxidative stress—great for both inner and outer glow.1
· Supports mood and hormones: Especially helpful during times of hormonal change, like menopause or the menstrual cycle. Some evidence shows it can even gently support estrogen and cortisol levels. 2
· Eases tension and pain: Shown to reduce discomfort during childbirth and potentially other types of physical or emotional stress. 3
· Calms and helps to relax: Some preliminary research has explored its connection to hormonal and emotional balance. 4
How and Where It Grows
The bitter orange tree grows in warm, sunny climates—especially Mediterranean regions like Tunisia, Morocco, and southern Europe. The blossoms bloom briefly in spring and are harvested by hand, making neroli oil both time-sensitive and labor-intensive to produce. Distillation happens right away to preserve the flower’s delicate aroma and benefits.
Use in Ancient Medicine
In traditional European, Chinese, and Ayurvedic medicine, bitter orange and its blossoms were used to calm nerves, aid digestion, and even support heart function. Neroli oil, specifically, has been used as a natural sedative and mood stabilizer for centuries.
Symbolism
Neroli has always been associated with love, purity, and serenity. Brides often wore orange blossoms in their hair to symbolize new beginnings, innocence, and fertility. Energetically, neroli is thought to open the heart—offering emotional release, comfort, and a deep sense of connection with oneself and others.
INFORMATION provided is intended for informational purposes only and is not meant to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Statements have not been evaluated by Health Canada or the FDA. Please consult a qualified healthcare provider before using essential oils for therapeutic purposes.
References
1. Sarrou E, et al. Volatile Constituents and Antioxidant Activity of Peel, Flowers and Leaf Oils of Citrus aurantium L. Molecules, 2013. [DOI:10.3390/molecules180910639]
2. Choi SY, et al. Effects of Inhalation of Essential Oil of Citrus aurantium on Menopausal Symptoms, Stress, and Estrogen. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2014. [DOI:10.1155/2014/796518]
3. Scandurra C, et al. The Effectiveness of Neroli Essential Oil in Relieving Anxiety and Perceived Pain in Women during Labor. Healthcare, 2022. [DOI:10.3390/healthcare10020366]
4. Bisson GS, et al. The Anxiolytic Potential of Citrus Aurantium Essential Oil: A Focused Critical Review. Brazilian Journal of Aromatherapy and Essential Oils, 2024. [DOI:10.62435/2965-7253.bjhae.2024.bjhae11]
