Product Spotlight: Petitgrain Mandarin

Petitgrain Mandarin Essential Oil is a powerful ally for emotional and physical well-being thanks to its soothing effect on the nervous system.* Though it has a bitter, mandarin fruity, and floral aroma, Petitgrain Mandarin helps reduce anxiety, stress, and emotional fatigue, making it a go-to for those seeking calm in their busy lives.* This Essential Oil’s ability to balance emotions and create a sense of peace is why it’s commonly used in aromatherapy for stress relief and relaxation as it contains about 50% methyl N-methyl anthranilate, a very soothing substance. Compared to the .5% methyl N-methyl anthranilate of other Mandarin Oil’s derived from the peel, Petitgrain Mandarin stands out as a source of tranquility.* This does not mean that Petitgrain Mandarin Essential Oil is 100 times more calming than peel oil; rather, it is estimated to be approximately 20 times more soothing.*

Beyond its emotional benefits, Petitgrain is highly versatile when it comes to aiding the body as well, helping to soothe muscle tension and calm the heart.* Its refreshing scent invigorates the senses, which is why it’s a key ingredient in perfumes, soaps, and colognes.* Whether you’re looking to revitalize your mood or nourish your soul, Petitgrain Mandarin Essential Oil is a must-have for any holistic self-care routine.

What is Petitgrain? What makes Mandarin different from Bigarade?

Petitgrain Mandarin Essential Oil is derived from the leaves and small twigs of the Citrus reticulata, commonly known as the Mandarin Orange tree. The name " Petitgrain" means "little seed" in French, originating from the oil’s early extraction from the tiny unripe fruits of citrus trees. Petitgrain Mandarin offers a unique combination of bitter and floral notes with calming herbaceous undertones, making it a popular choice in aromatherapy. Known for its ability to soothe both the mind and body, this oil’s refreshing scent evokes clarity and peace, making it a valuable ingredient in soaps, perfumes, and colognes.* At one point, Petitgrain was even an ingredient in Pepsi!¹

The Mandarin Orange tree itself is a small evergreen that thrives in tropical and subtropical regions across Asia, the Mediterranean, and South America. With its thorny branches, fragrant white flowers, and sweet fruit, the tree is prized not just for its citrus harvest but also for the essential oil extracted from its leaves and twigs. Historically, Petitgrain has been a key ingredient in traditional Eau de Cologne and remains vital in creating luxury perfumes and celebrated for its ability to rejuvenate the senses.*

One key distinction is that Petitgrain Mandarin comes from the Mandarin Orange tree, while Petitgrain Bigarade is derived from the Bitter Orange tree. Although both oils share similar calming and uplifting properties, in terms of composition, Petitgrain Mandarin contains approximately 50% methyl N-methyl anthranilate, a highly calming compound. Petitgrain Mandarin is preferred for its calming effects, as it is roughly 20 times more soothing than other Mandarin oils extracted from the peel as they only contain 0.5% methyl N-methyl anthranilate. While other Mandarin or Petitgrain Oils may have a better aroma only a little Petitgrain Mandarin Essential Oil is needed to create a very calming blend.

Why should you use Petitgrain Mandarin?

Petitgrain Mandarin Essential Oil is a remarkable ally for emotional well-being. Known to calm the nervous system it is commonly used to alleviate symptoms of stress, anxiety, and even insomnia.* The bright, citrusy scent has an uplifting yet calming effect, making it perfect for unwinding at the end of the day or enhancing a bedtime routine.* Petitgrain Mandarin’s tranquil aroma creates a peaceful environment, fostering deeper relaxation and a more restorative sleep experience, which benefits overall mental and emotional health.*

Petitgrain Mandarin Essential Oil also offers gentle support for digestive health.* Known for its soothing effects, it can alleviate digestive discomfort, such as bloating and cramps, by relaxing the digestive tract and promoting smoother digestion.* Its refreshing aroma uplifts the mind and eases the body, making it an ideal choice for holistic wellness.* By integrating Petitgrain Mandarin Essential Oil into your daily self-care routine, you can experience improved mood, emotional balance, and digestive comfort — a trifecta of benefits for a balanced, healthier lifestyle.*

How should you use Petitgrain Mandarin?

Petitgrain Mandarin Essential Oil is a versatile remedy, offering support for digestive health, respiratory ease, and emotional balance.* Known for its bright, floral aroma with herbaceous undertones, Petitgrain Mandarin has a calming effect on both body and mind, making it ideal for relieving digestive discomfort and reducing symptoms of anxiety or stress.* Integrating Petitgrain Mandarin into your wellness routine can help you experience a relaxed nervous system and a grounded sense of calm, but be warned that Petitgrain Mandarin is phototoxic and may become harmful to the skin if applied and revealed to sunlight.*

• Targeted Topical Application: up to 3% dilution, users should wait 8 hours before exposing applied areas to sunlight*
  • For concerns such as an overactive mind or stress form the everyday hustle and bustle of life, a targeted topical application of Petitgrain Mandarin Essential Oil can make a significant difference.* Dilute the oil to a concentration of 2-3% in a carrier oil (approximately 10-15 drops per tablespoon of carrier oil) and apply it to the skin.* This blend works to help reduce anxiety and stress. Petitgrain’s natural calming properties make it an ideal choice for soothing the mind and promoting a sense of tranquility, helping to address the root causes of tension and enhancing overall emotional well-being.*

• Whole Body Massage: up to 2% dilution
  • To create a calming full-body experience, dilute Petitgrain Mandarin to 2% in a carrier oil (about 10 drops per tablespoon) and use it as a massage oil.* This gentle concentration allows Petitgrain’s soothing properties to help alleviate nervous exhaustion, anxiety, and even digestive discomfort.* The calming, herbaceous aroma of Petitgrain encourages relaxation, offering a moment of escape from daily stressors by increasing the release of hormones like serotonin.* Its comforting touch can also support healthy digestion, helping to ease any abdominal tension or bloating, while creating a tranquil atmosphere that supports emotional well-being and calmness.*

• Aromatic Bath and Diffusion: up to 2% dilution with bath salts or milk (no more than 10 drops) or add a few drops in a Nebulizer or Nasal Inhaler
  • For a serene bathing experience, add Petitgrain Mandarin to bath salts or milk at a 2% dilution (no more than 10 drops per tablespoon) and pour into a warm bath. This allows the oil’s delicate floral scent to envelop you, supporting restful sleep, reducing mental agitation, and stabilizing the spirit.* Alternatively, add a few drops to a diffuser or personal inhaler to enjoy Petitgrain’s benefits on the go. Its aroma can calm the nerves, ease respiratory tension, and reduce digestive discomfort like nausea, making it a versatile tool for emotional and physical support throughout the day.*

Petitgrain Mandarin Essential Oil is a holistic wellness ally that nourishes both the body and mind, offering benefits that extend from clarity to emotional peace.* By incorporating Petitgrain Mandarin into your daily routine, you can experience a natural, soothing approach to digestive comfort, respiratory ease, and emotional balance.* Whether enjoyed through topical use, massage, or inhalation, Petitgrain Mandarin brings a breath of calm and balance, enriching your self-care rituals and helping you feel more grounded and at ease.*

What should you blend with Petitgrain Mandarin?

Petitgrain Mandarin Essential Oil pairs beautifully with a range of essential oils to enhance its calming and uplifting effects.* Blending it with Neroli and Atlas Cedarwood creates a deeply relaxing mix, perfect for easing stress and calming the mind.* For a floral, heartwarming touch, combine Petitgrain Mandarin with Lavender Extra or Spikenard to promote tranquility and emotional balance.* To add a fresh, revitalizing edge, mix Petitgrain Mandarin with bright notes like Lemon or Clary Sage, which can invigorate your mood and provide mental clarity.* Experimenting with these oils can bring out unique qualities in Petitgrain Mandarin, allowing you to craft blends that elevate both relaxation and renewal.*

Here are some DIY recipes for you to try in your nebulizer:

Final thoughts from Dr. Streicher and Amrita’s Experts:

Adding Petitgrain Mandarin to your self-care routine invites nature’s calming embrace into each day. Distilled from the leaves and twigs of the Mandarin tree, this essential oil contains around 50% methyl N-methyl anthranilate — a calming compound that makes it significantly more soothing than traditional Mandarin peel oil, which contains only 0.5%. While Petitgrain’s scent is more tart and floral than sweet, its grounding aroma enhances blends beautifully, bringing a profound sense of tranquility that complements other oils.*

Beyond its calming effects, Petitgrain Mandarin supports both physical and emotional well-being, offering relief for digestive discomfort and mental agitation.* A few drops in a diffuser or diluted in a carrier oil for topical use can help relax the mind, encourage restful sleep, and ease feelings of being overwhelmed.* By incorporating Petitgrain Mandarin into your wellness rituals, you introduce a sense of balance, allowing you to reconnect with inner peace and create an environment conducive to restful sleep and emotional renewal.*

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Sources: https://digital.lib.ecu.edu/36323