The Benefits Of Citrus Essential Oils
Why We Use Citrus Essential Oils
Here at The Good Zest Company we produce 100% organic skin and hair care products that are in balance with the body and mind.
As a Clinical Aromatherapist, I took the best ingredients to formulate our product range.
In order to produce products that are not only kind to the skin, hair and pyschological wellbeing, but to be effective at cleansing , nourishing and protecting as well, there was only one option - Citrus Essential Oils.
While other essential oils have varying properties, none can compare to the naturally balanced compounds found in citrus fruits.
Their combined levels of antioxidents and vitamins along with antibacterial, antiseptic, antimicrobial and antifungal properties make them ideal for organic skin and hair care.
Our skin and hair care formulas consist of perfectly balanced blends of oils and ingedients that are completely free of artificial chemicals and scents, meaning no irritation and natural balance with your skin.
The Mental Health Benefits Of Citrus Essential Oils
One of the most common applications of citrus essential oils is Aromtherapy.
Aromatherapy is a holistic healing practice that uses the aroma and therapeutic properties of essential oils derived from plants to promote health and well-being. The use of essential oils for medicinal and therapeutic purposes can be traced back to ancient civilizations such as Egypt, China, India, and Greece, where aromatic plants were used for their healing properties.
The term "aromatherapy" was coined in the 20th century by a French chemist named René-Maurice Gattefossé, who accidentally discovered the healing properties of lavender oil when he burned his hand and found that lavender oil helped to heal the burn and reduce scarring. He went on to study the therapeutic properties of other essential oils and wrote a book called "Aromathérapie: Les Huiles Essentielles, Hormones Végétales" (Aromatherapy: Essential Oils, Plant Hormones) in 1937.
Aromatherapy as a formal practice gained popularity in the 1970s and 1980s, and since then, it has become a popular alternative and complementary therapy used in various settings such as spas, hospitals, and homes.
Its most common application is through inhalation of the aromas. Small amounts of essential oils are heated to give off vapours that are inhaled.
The benefits of these vapours are well documented and can provide mood changing effects. The vapours from these oils are commonly used to calm and relax the mind while certain citrus oils provide mentally stimulating effects and increase focus and clarity.
How Do I choose The Right Product?
When you look through our range of products, it can seem that some are similar to others and it can be difficult to choose what you think is the right one. Basing yor decision purely on the organic citrus aroma is fime, but if you need to address a particular problem then you need to know more.
The following detailed list provides insight into the common compounds found in citrus essential oils and what fruits contain them.
Certain fruits contain more of a compound than others, meaning they have better benefits for particular applications. This information should give you a better understanding of why certain products contain certain oils and what their benefits are and allow you to make an informed choice regarding our products.
Common Compounds Found In Citrus Essential Oils
Antioxidants
Antioxidants are compounds that can help protect cells in the body from damage caused by harmful molecules called free radicals. Free radicals are molecules that are unstable and reactive. When free radicals accumulate in the body, they can cause damage to DNA, proteins, and other molecules, leading to oxidative stress, inflammation, and various diseases.
Antioxidants work by neutralizing free radicals, thus preventing or reducing the damage they can cause. Some of the most common antioxidants include vitamins C and E, beta-carotene, selenium, and flavonoids.
Limonene: Limonene is a monoterpene that is found in high concentrations in orange essential oil. It has antioxidant properties that can help to neutralise free radicals, which are unstable molecules that can cause cellular damage. By neutralising free radicals, limonene can help to protect the hair from damage and keep it healthy.
It's antioxidant properties also help protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals.
Limonene may also have anti-inflammatory effects and has been studied for its potential to improve skin conditions such as acne and eczema.
Alpha-tocopherol: Alpha-tocopherol is a type of vitamin E that has potent antioxidant properties. It can help to protect the hair from oxidative stress and damage caused by environmental factors like pollution and UV radiation.
It's potent antioxidants help to protect the skin against damage from free radicals that can cause cellular damage, leading to premature aging, wrinkles, and other skin concerns.
Alpha-tocopherols anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce inflammation and redness in the skin. This property is particularly beneficial for people with sensitive or acne-prone skin
It can also help to moisturize the skin by strengthening the skin barrier and reducing water loss. This can help to keep the skin hydrated and soft.
Alpha-tocopherol has been shown to promote skin healing by enhancing collagen production and improving skin elasticity. This can help to reduce the appearance of scars and improve overall skin texture.
It has been found help to protect the skin against UV damage from the sun. It works by absorbing UVB radiation and neutralizing free radicals that can be generated by UV exposure.
Carotenoids: Orange essential oil is also rich in carotenoids, which are natural pigments that have antioxidant properties. Some examples of carotenoids found in orange essential oil include beta-carotene and lycopene. These compounds can help to protect the hair from oxidative stress and damage caused by environmental factors.
Like alpha-tocopherol, carotenoids are potent antioxidants that can help to protect the skin against damage from free radicals. They work by neutralising free radicals and preventing them from causing oxidative stress in the skin.
Carotenoids, particularly beta-carotene, have been shown to help protect the skin against UV damage from the sun. They work by absorbing UV radiation and neutralising free radicals that can be generated by UV exposure.
Carotenoids also have anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce inflammation and redness in the skin. This can be particularly beneficial for people with sensitive or acne-prone skin.
They have been shown to promote skin healing by enhancing collagen production and improving skin elasticity. This can help to reduce the appearance of scars and improve overall skin texture.
Certain carotenoids, such as beta-carotene, can also help to improve skin pigmentation by giving the skin a healthy, natural-looking glow. This can be particularly beneficial for people with a dull or uneven skin tone.
Flavonoids: Orange essential oil contains a variety of flavonoids, which are plant-based compounds that have antioxidant properties. Some examples of flavonoids found in orange essential oil include hesperidin and naringin. These compounds can help to protect the hair from oxidative stress and damage caused by environmental factors.
Flavonoids' potent antioxidants help to protect the skin against damage from free radicals by combatting free radicals and preventing them from causing oxidative stress in the skin cells.
Their anti-inflammatory properties can help to reduce inflammation and redness in the skin, making them particularly good for people with sensitive or acne-prone skin.
Flavonoids have also been shown to enhance collagen production within the skin, helping to improve skin elasticity which reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Some flavonoids, such as quercetin, have been shown to help protect the skin against UV damage from the sun. They work by absorbing UV radiation and reducing the generation of free radicals.
Flavonoids have been shown to promote skin healing by improving blood flow and reducing inflammation. This can help to speed up the healing process of cuts, bruises, and other skin injuries.
Monoterpenes
Monoterpenes are a class of terpenes, which are naturally occurring organic compounds found in plants and some animals. They are characterized by their distinct and often strong aromas and flavors and are used in a variety of applications, including perfumery, flavoring, and medicine.
Monoterpenes have various biological activities and are used in traditional medicine and modern pharmacology. For example, some monoterpenes have anti-inflammatory, analgesic, or antiseptic properties, while others are used as flavoring agents or fragrances in perfumes and cosmetics.
Alenepha-pinene: Alpha-pinene is a monoterpene that is found in orange and other essential oils. It has a refreshing, woody aroma and can help to stimulate the scalp and promotes healthy hair growth.
Alpha-pinenes Anti-inflamatory and antibacterial properties provide protection for the skin from bacteria and help reduce redness while it's antioxidants fight free radicals.
Alpha-pinene has a small molecular size, which allows it to penetrate deeply into the skin. This property can help to improve the absorption of other skincare ingredients and enhance their effectiveness.
Found In: Orange, Grapefruit, Lemon, Lime
Alpha-terpinene: Alpha-terpinene is a monoterpene that is found in orange and other essential oils. It has a refreshing, sweet aroma and can help to stimulate the scalp and promote healthy hair growth.
Alpha-terpinene has strong antimicrobial properties that can help to combat bacteria, viruses, and fungi on the skin.
It has anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce inflammation and redness in the skin and it also has a small molecular size, allowing it to penetrate deeply into the skin. This property can help to improve the absorption of other skincare ingredients and enhance their effectiveness.
Found In: Orange, Grapefruit, Lemon, Lime
Gamma-terpinene: Gamma-terpinene is a monoterpene that is found in citrus essential oils. It has a refreshing, floral aroma and can help to stimulate the scalp and promote healthy hair growth.
Containing strong antimicrobial properties, it can help to combat bacteria, viruses, and fungi on the skin.
It's anti-inflammatory properties help to reduce inflammation and redness in the skin and also has a small molecular size, allowing it to penetrate deeply into the skin. This can help to improve the absorption of other skincare ingredients and increase their effectiveness.
It is also full of free radical fighting antioxidants.
Found In: Orange, Grapefruit, Lemon, Lime, Bergamot
In general, monoterpenes can provide a range of benefits for the hair, including adding shine, stimulating the scalp, and reducing dandruff. However, they can also have a drying effect on the hair and can cause irritation and sensitivity in some people.
It's important to use monoterpenes responsibly and to choose products that are formulated to meet your specific hair care needs. It's also important to pay attention to how your hair and scalp react to different products and to adjust your hair care routine accordingly.
Monoterpene Alcohols
Monoterpene alcohols are a type of chemical compound that is found in essential oils and other plant-based products. They have a variety of properties and can affect the hair in different ways.
Some monoterpene alcohols, like linalool and geraniol, can have a drying effect on the hair. This is because they have a low molecular weight and can evaporate quickly, leaving the hair feeling dry and stripped of oils. However, this drying effect can also be beneficial in certain situations, like when the scalp is oily or prone to dandruff. In these cases, monoterpene alcohols can help to regulate oil production and reduce dandruff, leaving the hair and scalp feeling clean and refreshed.
Other monoterpene alcohols, like nerol, can have a moisturising effect on the hair. This is because they have a higher molecular weight and are less likely to evaporate, leaving the hair feeling hydrated and nourished.
Here are some of the potential benefits and negatives of monoterpenes for the hair:
Benefits:
Can add shine to the hair
Can stimulate the scalp and promote healthy hair growth
Can reduce dandruff and improve the overall health of the scalp
Can help to regulate oil production on the scalp
Can have a refreshing, uplifting aroma
Negatives:
Can have a drying effect on the hair, especially if used in high concentrations
Can cause skin irritation and sensitivity in some people
Can be photosensitizing, meaning they can make the skin more sensitive to the sun
Can be volatile, meaning they can evaporate quickly, reducing their effectiveness
Linalool: Linalool is a monoterpene alcohol that is found in orange essential oil. It has a sweet, floral aroma and can help to reduce dandruff and improve the overall health of the scalp.
Linalool has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that help to soothe and protect the skin. It also helps to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
It contains antioxidants to protect against free radical cell damage
It has a pleasant floral scent that is commonly used in aromatherapy to promote relaxation and reduce stress. This can have positive effects on the skin by reducing stress-induced inflammation and promoting healthy sleep.
Found In: Lemon, Lime, Grapefruit, Orange, Lemon
Nerol: Nerol is a monoterpene alcohol that is found in orange essential oil. It has a sweet, floral aroma and can help to add shine to the hair and improve its overall health.
Nerol has antifungal and antibacterial properties that can help to protect the skin from harmful microorganisms. It also helps to reduce inflammation and redness associated with acne.
It contains antioxidants to prevent free radical damage.
This has a sweet, floral scent that has calming and soothing effects. This helps to reduce stress and promote relaxation, which can have positive effects on the skin.
Found In: Orange,
Neryl acetate: Neryl acetate is an ester that is commonly found in grapefruit essential oil. It has a sweet, floral aroma and can help to add shine to the hair and improve overall hair health.
It posses a sweet, floral scent that can have calming and soothing effects that help reduce stress.
Along with its antioxidants, anti-inflamiatory and antimicrobial properties it has also been shown to have moisturizing properties, which can help to hydrate and soften the skin.
Found In: Grapefruit, Lemon, Lime
Geraniol: Geraniol is a monoterpene alcohol that is found in citrus essential oils. It has a sweet, floral aroma and can help to reduce dandruff and improve the overall health of the scalp.
Geraniol has strong antimicrobial properties that can help to combat bacteria, viruses, and fungi on the skin.
It also posseses antioxidants and anti-inflamatories that protect the skin.
Found In: Lemon, Lime, Grapefruit, Orange
Citronellol: Citronellol is a monoterpene alcohol that is predominantly found in lemon and lime essential oils. It has a refreshing, floral aroma and can help to reduce dandruff and improve the overall health of the scalp.
Found In: Lemon, Lime, Orange, Bergamot
Geranyl acetate: It is a colourless liquid with a sweet, floral aroma that contributes to the overall scent and flavour of the oil.
Geranyl acetate is known for its antibacterial and antifungal properties, and has been shown to help control the growth of bacteria and fungi that can contribute to hair and scalp conditions such as dandruff and itching. Additionally, geranyl acetate has been shown to have a positive effect on the immune system, helping to improve overall health and wellbeing.
Its antibacterial and antifungal properties make it great for our skin care products too.
It also has good moisturising properties to soften and nourish skin.
Found In: Grapefruit, Lemon, Lime
What Is A monoterpene Aldehyde
Monoterpene aldehydes are a class of chemical compounds that are found in essential oils and other plant-based products. They are characterised by a carbon-carbon double bond and an aldehyde group (-CHO), which gives them a distinct aroma and a variety of beneficial properties.
Monoterpene aldehydes are known for their refreshing, citrusy aroma and can be found in a variety of essential oils, including lemon, lime, and orange. They have a variety of benefits for the hair, including stimulating the scalp and promoting healthy hair growth. Some monoterpene aldehydes, like citral and citronellal, can also help to reduce dandruff and improve the overall health of the scalp.
In addition to their benefits for the hair, monoterpene aldehydes are also known for their antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal properties, making them useful for a variety of other applications.
It's important to note that monoterpene aldehydes can be irritating to the skin and can cause sensitivity in some people. They can also be photosensitizing, meaning they can make the skin more sensitive to the sun. It's important to use monoterpene aldehydes responsibly and to choose products that are formulated to meet your specific hair care needs.
It's also important to pay attention to how your hair and scalp react to different products and to adjust your hair care routine accordingly.
Neral: Neral is a monoterpene aldehyde that is found in grapefruit essential oil. It has a citrusy, lemon-like scent that can have uplifting and energizing effects. This can help to reduce stress and promote a sense of well-being, which can have positive effects on the skin.
It contains antioxidants, anti-inflamatories and has antibacterial properties that are good for the skin and hair.
Found In: Grapefruit, Lemon, Lime, Bergamot
Citral: Citral is a terpene aldehyde that is found in lemon essential oil. It has a refreshing, citrusy aroma and can help to stimulate the scalp and promote healthy hair growth.
It contains antioxidants, anti-inflamatories and has antibacterial properties that are good for the skin.
Found In: Lemon, Lime, Grapefruit, Orange, Bergamot
Citronellal: Citronellal is a monoterpene aldehyde that is found in lime essential oil. It has a refreshing, floral aroma and can help to reduce dandruff and improve the overall health of the scalp.
In studies, Citronellal has been shown to have insect-repelling properties, which can help to protect the skin against insect bites and stings.
It has levels of antioxidants, anti-inflamatories and has antibacterial properties that are good for the skin.
Found In: Lemon, Lime, Bergamot
Octanal: Octanal is found in high concentrations in orange essential oil and in lower concentrations in other citrus essential oils such as lemon and bergamot.
It has a range of beneficial properties for the skin and hair.
Octanal has been found to have a stimulating effect on the scalp, increasing hair growth, and is used in some hair care products to promote thicker, healthier hair.
It contains antioxidants, which help to protect the skin and hair from damage caused by free radicals.
It also has antimicrobial properties, which can help to prevent the growth of bacteria on the skin and scalp, reducing the risk of skin infections and dandruff.
Studies have shown that it has a soothing effect on the skin, making it useful in products designed to calm and reduce inflammation.
Found In: Orange, Lemon, Bergamot
Perillaldehyde: Perillaldehyde is found in high concentrations in lime essential oil and in lower concentrations in other citrus essential oils such as lemon and bergamot.
Perillaldehyde has antibacterial and antifungal properties, which can help to prevent the growth of harmful microorganisms on the skin and scalp, reducing the risk of acne, dandruff, and other skin and hair conditions.
In addition, Perillaldehyde has been found to have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce redness, swelling, and irritation in the skin. It's antioxidants help to protect the skin and hair from damage caused by free radicals.
Found In: Lime, Lemon, Bergamot
Decanal: Decanal is found in high concentrations in lemon essential oil and in lower concentrations in other citrus essential oils such as orange and bergamot.
It has antimicrobial properties that can help to prevent the growth of harmful microorganisms on the skin and scalp, reducing the risk of acne, dandruff, and other skin and hair conditions.
Additionally, Decanal contains antioxidants, which can help to protect the skin and hair from damage caused by free radicals.
Research shows it can also improve the appearance of the skin by reducing the signs of aging, such as fine lines and wrinkles.
Found In: Lemon, Orange, Bergamot
Undecanal: Undecanal is found in high concentrations in orange essential oil and in lower concentrations in other citrus essential oils such as lemon and bergamot.
Like Decanal, Undecanal posseses antioxidants and has microbial properties to protect the skin and hair.
Found In: Orange, Lemon, Bergamot
Other Essential Oil Compounds
Gamma-terpinene oxide: Gamma-terpinene oxide is a monoterpene oxide that is found in lime essential oil. It has been shown to have a stimulating effect on hair growth, which can help to promote thicker, fuller hair.
It has been found to have antibacterial properties that help to keep the scalp clean and prevent dandruff and other scalp infections.
Gamma-terpinene oxide has a fresh, minty scent that can have uplifting and invigorating effects. This can help to reduce stress and promote a sense of well-being, which can have positive effects on the skin.
It has been shown to have cooling and soothing effects on the skin, which can help to relieve itching, irritation, and inflammation.
Along with these beneficial properties, it also has levels of antioxidants, anti-inflamatories and has antibacterial properties that are good for and help protect the skin.
Found In: Orange, Grapefruit, Lemon, Lime
Linalyl acetate: Linalyl acetate is known for its floral, fresh aroma and is used in perfumes and personal care products for its fragrant properties.
Linalyl acetate is an ester and is obtained by the esterification of linalool, a monoterpene alcohol.
It contains anti-inflammatory properties and antioxidants beneficial to the hair and skin but is mainly used as a natural scent.
Found In: Bergamot
Delta-Terpinene: Delta-Terpinene is a terpene that is known for its refreshing, invigorating aroma and has been used in aromatherapy for its energizing properties.
Delta-terpinene has been shown to have strong antimicrobial properties, which can help to combat bacteria, viruses, and fungi on the skin. This makes it helpfull for people with acne-prone or sensitive skin.
It has cooling and soothing effects on the skin, which help to relieve itching, irritation, and inflammation.
Found in Bergamot, Lemon
Nootkatone: Nootkatone is found in high concentrations in grapefruit essential oil and in lower concentrations in other citrus essential oils such as lemon and lime.
Nootkatone has been shown to stimulate hair growth by increasing the activity of certain growth factors in the scalp and also has antifungal properties, which can help to prevent dandruff and other scalp conditions caused by fungal infections,
It contains antioxidants and has antiinflamatory and antibacterial properties that protect the skin.
Found in Grapefruit, Lemon, Lime
Valencene: Valencene is found in high concentrations in orange essential oil and in lower concentrations in other citrus essential oils such as lemon and bergamot.
Valancene contains antioxidants and has antiinflamatory and antibacterial properties that protect the skin and hair.
Found in Orange, Lemon, Bergamot
Myrcene: Myrcene is found in high concentrations in grapefruit essential oil and in lower concentrations in other citrus essential oils such as lemon, lime, and bergamot.
Myrcene has been found to have conditioning properties, which can help to moisturize and soften the hair.
Found in Grapefruit, Lime, Lemon, Bergamot
Sabinene: Sabinene is found in high concentrations in bergamot and tangerine essential oils, as well as in lower concentrations in other citrus essential oils such as lemon and orange.
Found in Bergamot,Orange, Lemon
Terpinolene: Terpinolene is found in high concentrations in lime essential oil and in lower concentrations in other citrus essential oils such as lemon and bergamot.
Found in Lime, Lemon, Bergamot
Citronellyl acetate: Citronellyl acetate is found in high concentrations in bergamot essential oil and in lower concentrations in other citrus essential oils such as lemon and lime.
Found in Bergamot, Lemon, Lime
Citronellyl valerate: Citronellyl valerate is found in high concentrations in orange essential oil and in lower concentrations in other citrus essential oils such as lemon and bergamot.
Found in Orange, Lemon, Bergamot
Citronellyl nitrile: Citronellyl nitrile is found in high concentrations in grapefruit essential oil and in lower concentrations in other citrus essential oils such as lemon and bergamot.
itronellyl nitrile is often used in the fragrance industry to add a fresh, citrusy scent to perfumes and other personal care products.
Found in Grapefruit, Lemon, Bergamot
Conclusion
After that indepth breakdown of the benefits of citrus essential oils, you should have a better understanding of why we choose to use them and why they are so good for natural skin and hair care.
Our products are sustainably manufactured and use certified organic ingredients along with recyclable packaging.
