Anne Marie Orsini: She had a thing for Neroli

Anne Marie Orsini depicted by artist Nicolas de Largillière

During the 9th century, Middle Eastern and Mediterranean people began to propagate citrus trees for their delectable fruits which had resulted from the ancient trade routes from South East Asia, India and China. The fruit, juice, rind, leaves and blossoms were all preserved to create a variety of culinary products including perfumes.

By the 16^th century, other than intentional plantations, citrus aurantium trees (also known as seville orange) began showing up in the gardens of elitists - specifically for their scent, and as a representation of high social status.

During the 17th century Anne Marie Orsini the duchess of Bracciano and Princess of Nerola Italy (hence the name Neroli) was coined for introducing the distillation of the bitter orange blossoms (Citrus aurantium var. amara) due her overwhelming fondness for the enchanting aroma.

Neroli Essential Oil is specifically derived from Citrus aurantium var. amara and I would say that it is probably my most favourite scent. Neroli possesses a light sweet floral aroma that is dusty and tobacco like, punctuated by the tiniest splash of crisp green.

Real Neroli is used extensively in what I would call 'True Aromatherapy' where one would receive a consultation with a Professional Aromatherapist and where the therapist would use Real Neroli Oil in some form of a body treatment such as a relaxation massage or facial.

Neroli Oil is also used extensively in high-end perfumes, However, when you see Neroli being used in other commercial products such as soaps, candles or linen sprays, I can with absolute certainty tell you, that an artificial version of Neroli is being used because Real Neroli Oil is very expensive. If you are looking to purchase a good quality Neroil - check out Eden Botanicals.

Neroli Oil is often adulterated with Petitgrain (its cousin) which is distilled from the leaf of the orange tree. Petitgrain smells similar to Neroli Oil but not as powdery or sweet. It's notes are more raw, green and herbacious. The leaf produces an abundance of essential oil making Petitgrain very affordable in comparison to Neroli

Neroli Research: There is a significant amount of research indicating that the scent of Neroli has positive effects on stress and anxiety. Neroli oil is relatively high in Linalool a highly fragrant constituent that occurs in many aromatic plants. Linalool is said to have anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties,  however, there is no empirical evidence that Neroli oil possesses any skin care properties or protection.

Orange Blossoms

In my opinion it is the carrier oils (cold pressed vegetable oils) that are used in skin care products that possess properties which help to soothe, hydrate and improve the texture and elasticity of the skin. The addition of Real Neroli to a skin care product is to seduce the user into buying more - because the scent is absolutely addictive. Hope you're having a Scentsational Day. Follow me at Instagram

The information and statements on this site are intended for educational purposes only and not intended to prescribe, cure, prevent, treat or diagnose any disease or condition.

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