Mandarin essential oil is expressed from the rind of a small evergreen tree which grows to 4m. Mandarin is divided into 4 main groups, each suited to certain climatic and environmental conditions: Common, King, Willowleaf and Satsuma. Mandarin is native to China and Indo-china, but spread to other countries of the Far East, where it is grown mostly for domestic purposes. It was first introduced to Europe in the eighteenth century, became popular very quickly, and was commercially cultivated in southern Europe and North Africa. It was then introduced to the Americas, southern Africa and Australia. Varying from orange to orange-brown, dark-yellowish-brown and olive-brown in colour, mandarin essential oil is a mobile liquid with a sweet, gentle aroma with a citrus top note not dissimilar to sweet orange oil. Aside from its use in aromatherapy, mandarin oil is also used widely in flavours, often in combination with one or more of sweet or bitter orange, grapefruit and lime oils, in soft drinks, candy and liqueurs. Mandarin oil has similar properties to those of sweet orange oil.
Its main actions are as a carminative, cholagogue, depurative, digestive and sedative *See below for meanings
Mandarin is considered one of the children's oils, is used to relieve upset tummies in babies and children, and is recommended for soothing restlessness, especially in hyperactive children.
For the digestive system, mandarin has a tonic effect, aiding regulation of metabolic processes, and it aids the secretion of bile and breaking down of fats. It helps to calm the intestines and relieve flatulence.
Mandarin essential oil is beneficial for use in a massage oil to prevent stretch marks during pregnancy. It is best used in combination with lavender, neroli, frankincense, wheatgerm and apricot kernel oil. To see results, use daily from around the fifth month of pregnancy.
As mentioned above, the skin benefits from the use of mandarin for the prevention of stretch marks. It is also recommended for acne, congested and oily skin.
For the nervous system, mandarin essential oil soothes and encourages much the way sweet orange does, but is more gentle. It helps to "take the edge off" when nerves are raw, when there is anxiety or depression, or you're in need of a little tlc, and it can help to treat insomnia, especially when used in combination with lavender, Roman chamomile and Indian sandalwood.
Mandarin soothes, encourages, uplifts and calms. It brings softness, gentleness, kindness and love. It protects and brings happiness, helping us to get in touch with our inner child.
Non-toxic, non-irritating and non-sensitising. Safe for use during pregnancy.
Blends well with other citrus, floral, woody/base and herbal oils such as lavender and marjoram.
For free qualified advice on how to use it, email info@GalaxyAromatherapy.com
Always take care when choosing your essential oils. Look for botanical names and expiry dates on the label. They should come in dark coloured glass bottles to protect them, and have dripulator tops. Following these guidelines will help to ensure you're buying good quality, pure essential oils.
*Terms:
carminative - settles the digestive system and aids with gas
cholagogue - increases the secretion and flow of bile production into the duodenum
depurative - helps to purify the body, particularly the blood
digestive - aids the digestion of food
sedative - reduces nervousness, distress or agitation
Is there an essential oil not already profiled you’d like to read about? Contact us with your request.