Being bitter isn’t always a bad thing! In this month’s installment of “Essential Oils A to Z” I will be discussing the wonders of Bitter Orange and Black Pepper.
Bitter Orange
Cold pressed from the peel of Citrus aurantium, this oil has been traded throughout the world, including the Mediterranean, Middle East, North Africa and the Caribbean. Bitter Orange is a top note oil with a sweet aroma with bitter undertones reminiscent of Grapefruit. This oil combines well with Bergamot, Cinnamon Bark, Clary Sage, Clove Bud, Lavender, Lemon, Myrrh, Nutmeg and Sandalwood.
Bitter Orange is beneficial for a multitude of reasons. One such way is to help reduce fingernail biting, simply combining with Coconut Oil and applying to nails. Like some other citrus oils, Bitter Orange is beneficial to the digestive system and can help with issues like flatulence, nausea and loss of appetite, as well as promote weight loss. To help digestive issues, combine with a carrier oil and gently massage into the abdomen. Bitter Orange is also wonderful in helping to increase alertness and alleviate stress and anxiety. Combine with other citrus oils like Bergamot or Lemon, or calming Lavender, and use in a diffuser for an extra clarifying punch. Use at home or in the office.
Black Pepper
The berries of the Piper nigrum are steam distilled to create this crisp and fresh oil. Originated in India, Black Pepper is a middle note oil that blends well with Bergamot, Clary Sage, Clove Bud, Coriander, Fennel, Frankincense, Geranium, Ginger, Grapefruit, Juniper, Lavender, Lemon, Lime, Mandarin and Ylang Ylang.
Black Pepper is a magnificent oil to use to help curb certain bad habits, like smoking and drinking alcohol excessively. Additionally, this oil is great for the digestive system and eliminating waste and toxins from the body. To receive these benefits, add a small drop to your favorite dish as you are cooking. Black Pepper is a warming oil that is also quite invigorating, making it great to help stimulate the mind and body. Add a few drops to a diffuser blend to promote mental clarity.
That is all for this edition of Essential Oils A to Z, but be sure to come back next month when we discuss Blood Orange and Cajeput.
*For informational purposes only. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
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1 comment
I love to use black pepper when I cook. The taste is so much more intense than ground pepper. I have not used bitter orange yet. Ill have to get some for the summer to diffuse for a fresh scent!