According to the I.N.C.I nomenclature, "Citrus Aurantium Amara Flower Water" corresponds to orange blossom hydrosol. Known for its captivating fragrance, it offers numerous benefits for the skin and hair. It is attributed with soothing and regenerating properties.
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What is "Citrus Aurantium Amara Flower Water" and what is its utility?
Summary
- Some historical elements about the bitter orange tree
- How is orange blossom hydrosol obtained?
- The biochemical composition of orange blossom hydrosol and its cosmetic virtues
- Our treatments based on orange blossom hydrosol
- Sources
Published January 28, 2022,
updated on February 5, 2024,
by
Maylis, Chemical Engineer
—
6 min read
Some historical elements about the bitter orange tree.
The orange blossom grows on the bitter orange tree, also known as bitter orange. The origin of this shrub is somewhat unclear, with some asserting it comes from India, while others believe it first sprouted on Chinese soil. It was following the Crusades, around the 11th century, that the bitter orange tree appeared around the Mediterranean (particularly in Andalusia). The orange blossom is also known as "neroli", in reference to the Princess of Neroli (an Italian town) who popularized its use in perfumery in the 16th century. This scent was, in fact, the favorite of King Louis XIV; it became a staple at court during his reign.
How is orange blossom hydrosol obtained?
The orange blossom hydrosol is derived from the steam distillation of dried flowers.This method involves mixing and heating the plant residues with water in a still, then cooling the water vapor in a condenser to recover it in liquid form. The essential oil, less dense than the water used for extraction, floats on the surface, which is none other than the hydrosol. This is recognized in cosmetics for its regenerative properties and its ability to tone devitalized skin. Unlike essential oil, it can be used without contraindications by children and pregnant women because it is less concentrated in active species. The orange blossom hydrosol presents itself as a colorless to whitish liquid with a characteristic sweet and floral scent.
The biochemical composition of orange blossom hydrosol and its cosmetic virtues.
This hydrosol is rich in molecules antioxidants such as vitamin C and flavonoids (hesperidoside and naringoside). These are polyphenols capable of neutralizing free radicals. As a reminder, free radicals are highly reactive molecules because they are extremely unstable due to their unpaired electron. They degrade cell membranes, DNA that supports the genetic code, proteins, enzymes... They thus accelerate the aging process of the body. The hydroxy and phenoxy groups of the flavonoids present in the orange blossom hydrosol donate electrons to deactivate free radicals by making them more stable and therefore less reactive. This hydrosol is therefore recommended to fight against premature aging of the epidermis, restore radiance to the complexion, and brighten the skin.
The orange blossom hydrosol also contains terpenes such as linalool. This molecule is a recognized allergen, but its low quantity in the hydrosol does not make it irritating. Linalool is a compound with fragrant properties as well as relaxing effects on the nervous system. The limonene is also a terpene contained in this hydrosol, originally responsible for the scent of lemon and orange. This molecule with anti-inflammatory properties soothes redness. Therefore, orange blossom hydrosol is recommended for delicate and sensitive skin. Moreover, it also contains esters, sesquiterpenols and sesquiterpenes that act against skin inflammation. It relieves irritated skin and can thus be used as an after-sun treatment.
Note : When used in hair care, orange blossom hydrosol soothes and purifies irritated scalps. As for nails, it reduces their discoloration and provides the necessary hydration to maintain their health.
Our treatments based on orange blossom hydrosol.
At Typology,orange blossom hydrosol has been distilled from organically grown orange flowers, cultivated and harvested in Morocco. It is used pure, morning and evening, on clean and dry skin, to revive its radiance and soothe any potential irritations.
You can also enjoy the benefits of this hydrosol with our moisturizing gel made with aloe vera and organic orange blossom for the face and body. Itsoothes the skin and deeply hydrates. We recommend applying a small amount to clean, dry skin and massaging until fully absorbed. Its melting and light texture penetrates quickly and leaves the skin soft and comfortable, without a sticky finish.
Sources:
FARAMARZI M. A. & al. GC/MS Analysis of Citrus aurantium L. hydrolate and its comparison with the commercial samples. International Journal of Production Research (2004).
HEO M. T. & al. Biological screening of 100 plant extracts for cosmetic use (II): anti-oxidative activity and free radical scavenging activity. International Journal of Cosmetic Science (2008).
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