Citrus essential oils are probably one of the most underrated essential oils out there in the market. They are often overshadowed by other more popular essential oils - such as Rosemary essential oil or even Lavender essential oil. Yet, citrus essential oils should not be brushed aside as it contains various properties that are extremely useful to one’s health.
Clementine comes from the citrus fruit family, where it is the smallest of the mandarin oranges. Clementine essential oil is commonly extracted by the cold-pressed method of the outer peel of the fruit (the part that we normally throw away!) and it has a very unique scent.
Before you throw away the peel, you can try to squeeze it in half, making sure that the colourful side of the peel is on the outside. You should be able to see a tiny quantity of an aromatic fluid being squired out from the peel. That aromatic fluid is the Clementine essential oil.
It has a rejuvenating and citrus smell that is also very sweet and floral. This complex and multi-layered scented essential oil not only has a very pleasant smell that contains aromatherapy effects, it also has various health benefits and uses that can vastly improve the wellbeing of your everyday life. Here are some of the uses of Clementine essential oil.
Uses of Clementine Essential Oil:
Firstly, the main ingredient in Clementine oil is limonene, which is an antioxidant. According to research carried out by Dr. Jidong Sun, published in the Alternative Medicine Review, limonene helps to dissolve gallstones which are filled with cholesterol, thus lowering cholesterol levels and preventing the occurrences of heart attacks and other heart-related diseases which are associated with high cholesterol levels.
Related to heart problems, limonene can also be used to relieve heartburn because it can neutralize gastric acid which is the main cause of heartburn and it can relieve gastroesophageal reflux disorder (GERD). Not only that, it contains preventive chemotherapy properties and anti-tumoral agents, thus preventing the occurrences of many cancer types, such as breast cancers.
Secondly, like many essential oils out there, Clementine oil can be used for aromatherapy. The sweet yet tangy aroma of Clementine oil purifies the mind and relieves anxiety, tension as well as stress. This thus promotes ease, tranquility and clarity as it is a restorative agent to the brain. As such, Clementine essential oil definitely aids you in getting a good night’s rest and leaves you feeling rejuvenated as well as energized the next day.
In fact, because of its calming and soothing effects, it has been used in European hospitals to improve patients’ overall wellbeing! Since it has uplifting and relaxation properties, it can ultimately support the body as it induces stabilization after a shocking or a traumatic incident. As such, Clementine essential oil is an underrated yet such a useful invigorating agent, which makes it a must-have for everyone!
Also, Clementine essential oil has various antifungal agents, and its toning effect is useful for the skin as it improves circulation, decreases the likelihood of unwanted fluids remaining in your body and helps to achieve a balanced moisture level for the skin. As such, these properties undoubtedly help in maintaining clear and smooth skin. Coupled with its antifungal properties, it helps to promote the healing of wounded skins too.
How to Use Clementine Essential Oil:
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Direct Inhalation: Clementine essential oil is safe to be inhaled directly from your hands. Apply several drops of the oil onto your palms and inhale it from there to induce tranquility and relaxation after a stressful day at work or at school!
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Topically: Clementine essential oil can also be applied topically onto the skin, but it needs to be blended and mixed with other oils first. For a skin restoration massage blend, you can mix 4 drops of Clementine oil, 2 drops of Helichrysum oil, 2 drops of Lavender oil and 2 drops of Roman Chamomile oil in 15ml of Marula carrier oil or other carrier oils available and gently massage onto your skin. However, ensure there are no allergic reactions by doing a skin patch test first.
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In the Diffuser: Clementine essential oil can also be used in a diffuser or a vaporizer so as to give your house or your workplace the sweet, soft tangy aroma that is absolutely refreshing!
Safety Precautions:
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Clementine essential oil is phototoxic, meaning that you should not be exposed to direct sunlight after using the oil.
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Do not apply Clementine essential oil in its undiluted form directly onto the skin. It needs to be blended with carrier oils to prevent damage onto the skin. Avoid application before exposure to the sun’s rays. Do not apply the essential oil if you need to be outdoors within 24 hours after application.
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Do not ingest Clementine essential oil.
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Before using essential oils as a form of treatment, ensure that you consult with your doctor first beforehand, as it might induce other side-effects. (This is especially so for pregnant women).
References:
Jidong Sun, “D-Limonene: Safety and Clinical Applications”, Alternative Medicine Review (2007); 12(3)
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