Orange peel oil is an amber-coloured essential oil derived from the peel of the orange (Citrus x aurantium). We use this to add fresh citrus notes to many of the essential oil fragrances in our home and personal care ranges.

Oranges (Citrus x aurantium) are a group of several species of citrus tree grown around the world for their antioxidant, vitamin C and flavour-rich fruit. There are many varieties of oranges, some known for their bitter fruit, while others are prized for their sweetness. Primarily grown for fresh consumption or use in fruit juices, oranges and orange-derived ingredients are also used in traditional medicines, personal care products and fragrances. Orange peels typically represent 50% of the weight of waste from orange juice production, and different methods can be used to make use of this waste product.

Orange peel oil can be produced by steam-distilling the peel. The oil is mostly comprised of the aromatic chemical limonene, which gives it a citrus-orange aroma and contributes to its antibacterial and antifungal properties.

The high percentage of limonene nautrally present in orange peel oil contributes to its higher EWG score. Although limonene is found in nature, it can still have a negative effect on some people who may be sensitive to its oxidized compounds, which can be irritating to the skin. We use orange peel oil with care at low concentrations, and highlight limonene as a potential allergen when it's present in the formulation at concentrations greater than 0.001% in leave-on products or greater than 0.01% in rinse-off products.

Botanical name: Citrus x aurantium var. dulcis

Other names: Brazilian Orange Oil, Orange Yu (JPN), Orange Oil, Citrus Sinensis Oil

Main constituents: Limonene, Myrcene, alpha-Pinene, Linalool, Octanal, Decanal

REFERENCES

González-Mas, M. C., Rambla, J. L., López-Gresa, M. P., Blázquez, M. A., & Granell, A. (2019). Volatile Compounds in Citrus Essential Oils: A Comprehensive Review. Frontiers in plant science, 10, 12. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpls.2019.00012

Ali, Javid & Khan, Asfandyar & Ullah, Naseem & Amin, Muhammad & Sahibzada, Muhammad & Khayam, Umar & Farhat, Ali & Khan, Farhat & Hussain, Arshad & Khurram, Muhammad & Qureshi, Muhammad Nasimullah & Quarashi, Allah. (2012). Essential oil chemical composition and Antimicrobial Activity of Sour Oranges (Citrus aurantium) Peels. 552113. 1690-1693.