ORANGE (Citrus Aurantium sisnenis.)
The Oil of Joy

There are so many wonderful things about orange oil, firstly it is an inexpensive oil and readily available. Yet it is also very powerful, only a few drops of 100% pure essential oil (PEO) can do wonders. Having a dinner party and worried it may not be a success. Burn Sweet Orange PEO with a couple of drops of Ylang Ylang ( ylang ylang is very very strong only a few drops are needed or it will dominate. I call Ylang Ylang the party oil but more about that later..) and it will be a great evening. I had a client with chronic fatigue, and found by combining these two oils it was very helpful. The best orange oil if from Sicily. It has a delightful aroma, sweet, warm, fresh, tangy, citrus and sensual. The oil is found in the pores of the rind.

HISTORY. The Arabs in the first century brought oranges to Europe. Oranges contain vitamins A, B, & C. In Chinese medicine the dried sweet orange peel is used to help treat cough, cold and anorexia. Romans are recorded as creating the remedy of orange-flower water as a beverage to prevent drunkenness and indigestion.

In aromatherapy it has so many uses here are just a few
* reduce stress
* calm
* promote restful sleep
* mood uplifting
* balance male and female hormones
* sedative to the nervous system

Aromatheray works on so many levels for the MIND : it reduces peoples fear of the unkown, conveys warmth, happiness and refreshing light heartedness. It is warm, sensuous, radiant and alive. Good to use when we forget how to laugh. Or feel withdrawn. Orange is often referred to as the "oil of joy" It is great to use in the house as its influence is positive an happy, reminds us not to take life too seriously. This oil is excellent for self-esteem issues.

On the BODY:
Lymph: orange stimulate lymph fluid, circulation, palpitations
Muscular: It acts as a relaxant for muscular spasms
Nervous: anti depressant sedative chronic anxiety and stress
Reproductive: PMT, menopause, for pregnancy ( use for swelling in the last month. Combine with grapefruit oil and lemon oil, do not use any oil in the first trimester).
Respiratory: a great winter blend, high in vitamin C.

For a fragrant and relaxing bath experience try the following.

ORANGE MILK BATH RECIPE

4-8 drops S. Orange PEO
1/2 cup of whole milk or powdered milk.
(It is important for there to be fat content because this helps the PEO to break down into the bath water, other wise it will be large goblets that sit in the bath.)
Add the mixture after you have entered the bath so you can enjoy the whole experience.
Breathe the wonderful perfume, and feel the silky soft effect on your skin. You will smell and feel great.

Aileen's Pleasure Bath
2 cups powdered milk
30 drops Sweet Orange PEO
6 drops sandalwood PEO
6 drops Ylang Ylang PEO
6 drops of geranium PEO
1 tablespoon Chinese five spice
Combine all together in a bowl, stir well, and store in an airtight glass jar.
Use a handful in each bath.
Relax and enjoy.
Suitable for all skin types.

Milk has proteins, viamins, amino acids benefical fats, and calcium, and is easily absorbed by the skin. The resul is a smooth, and hydrated appearance. Milk is wonderful for dispersing essential oils thoroughly through the bathwater. For dryer skin types use milk with a higher butterfat content. Oilier skin types can use low-fat milk or skim milk.

CAUTION: Sweet Orange Oil can be photo toxic. This means if you use it in a massage oil, do not expose the skin to the sun for some hours as your skin can burn. It is rare for sweet orange to cause an allergic reaction but it is alway wise to test, apply a few drops to the inner wrist and leave for 2-3 hours if there is a reaction only use this oil in a burner.