What it is
Citrus Aurantium Amara Leaf/Twig Oil, commonly called petitgrain oil, is steam-distilled from the leaves and young twigs of the bitter orange tree. It has a fresh, green-floral citrus aroma and is used primarily as a natural fragrance component, with secondary skin-conditioning character. It is typically added at low levels for scent.
Safety & warnings
As a citrus essential oil it contains natural fragrance allergens such as limonene and linalool that can sensitize susceptible individuals. Petitgrain is generally considered low in phototoxic furocoumarins compared with cold-pressed peel oils, but fragrance-sensitive skin may still react, so patch testing is advisable.
Origin & sourcing
Plant-derived; steam-distilled from the leaves and twigs of Citrus aurantium amara (bitter orange tree).
History
Petitgrain has a long-standing place in perfumery, valued for its fresh citrus-floral note, and it carries that tradition into cosmetic fragrancing.
Questions everyone asks
What is petitgrain oil?
It is an essential oil distilled from the leaves and twigs of the bitter orange tree, prized in perfumery for its fresh green-citrus aroma.
Does it contain fragrance allergens?
Yes. Like other citrus oils it naturally contains constituents such as limonene and linalool that are recognized fragrance allergens for some people.