With their light, sweet, zesty scents, it’s no surprise that citrus essential oils make the perfect aromatic complement to a summertime adventure. Even better? Their wide range of therapeutic properties offer added benefits to any experience, whether you’re choosing an uplifting and energizing oil to kick off a busy summer day or looking for supportive, calming oil for a relaxing summer night under the stars. Read on for our guide to choosing the perfect citrus essential oil.
History and Background
Thanks to their abundance around the globe, citrus fruits – and their plant components – have been used widely since ancient times. In fact, a 2022 article published in Antioxidants Journal note that parts of citrus plants were prized for their aromatic quality, their versatility for use in baking and cooking, and their medicinal properties. For example, certain tribes chewed the dried roots of a lemon tree to relieve headaches and stomach problems.
In recent times, not much has changed – the demand for citrus products remains steady because of their use in various food and beverages, cosmetic preparations, and therapeutics. This also includes citrus essential oils, which are created by extracting or cold-pressing the oil sacs or oil glands present in the leaves, flowers, and fruit peel, concentrating the plant’s natural benefits for maximum therapeutic effect.
At Inshanti, we believe education is crucial. Combining essential oils of maximum purity and the knowledge of effective use and application is key to enjoying the therapeutic benefits of citrus essential oils to their fullest potential. For more general guidance on essential oils, check out our pages on “About Essential Oils” and our “Essential Oil Buying Guide.”
Your Go-To Guide to Citrus Essential Oils
Bergamot – considered to be one of the most valuable oils for emotional well-being and centering by Inshanti blendmaster Debra Stoltzfus, Bergamot is also prized for its anti-viral properties, which can stimulate the immune system, fight off viruses, and ease inflammation. Diffuse it to enjoy its sweet, tangy citrus aroma and ability to uplift the spirit, or blend it with additional oils for maximum pain relief.
Sweet Orange – who doesn’t smile and inhale when presented with the fresh and zesty citrus aroma of oranges? But more than just a refreshing and uplifting fragrance, sweet orange essential oil normalizes the intestines, so it can be helpful in easing diarrhea, constipation, and other digestive issues. Safe for all ages, this powerhouse can be helpful when tummies are upset from too much candy (or too much picnicking!). Blend with a carrier oil for a supportive digestive rub or use at 1 percent dilution in the bath during a soak.
Green Mandarin – an effective natural antispasmodic perfect for settling stomach issues, green mandarin is still gentle enough to be useful for children, the elderly, or those with sensitive skin. With a tangy, fruit aroma, diffuse it for a mood pick-me-up and to promote restful sleep, or add it to a facial cleanser for its skin-toning ability.
Lime – with an impressive array of benefits, you’ll find yourself reaching for lime essential oil over and over again. Diffuseit to banish depression and to allow its antiviral and anti-infection properties to purify and brighten the atmosphere, or blend it into a massage oil as a pain reliever and lymphatic stimulant that works against fluid retention and cellulite. Finally, lime makes a great addition to home cleaning products or as a flavor agent in cooking.
Lemon– with everyone home for the summer (hello, germs!), are you looking to maximize your cleaning products? No matter the season, lemon essential oil’s impressive antimicrobial fighting power makes it crucial for colds and the flu protection, and its de-greasing abilities are perfect for a sparkling kitchen. Add it to home cleaner or diffuse it into the air for a positive energy boost.
Grapefruit– with impressive diuretic and lymphatic stimulation properties, grapefruit essential oil is perfect to have on hand to relieve swollen joints. Blend 5 –6 drops of grapefruit essential oil to 1 oz. of carrier oil and rub on your skin to alleviate cellulitis or water retention. Or, utilize its antiseptic property and blend with a facial cleanser or shampoo to promote acne healing and clarify oily hair.
From easing those post-BBQ belly blues to banishing summer germs to uplifting spirits, citrus essential oils are the must-haves for your summer. Grab some today and make your summer especially fragrant!