Mandarin (Citrus reticulata or Citrus nobilis) essential oil is extracted by cold-pressing the fresh fruit rinds. The fruit is sourced from Australia, Italy (Sicily), Argentina, Brazil, China and Japan. Its colour varies between yellow, green or red, depending upon its country of origin and the maturity of the fruit. Green mandarin oil comes from the peel of the unripe or green fruit. Red mandarin oil comes from the peel of the fruit once it is fully ripened and the oil is red or dark orange in colour. Yellow mandarin oil comes from the peel of the fruit when it is partially ripe. The chemical profiles of the three types of mandarin oil have subtle uniqueness, and therefore the aromas of each of the oils are also slightly different.
Composition of Mandarin Essential Oil
Mandarin essential oils contain many monoterpenes, including α- and β-pinene, camphene, myrcene, sabinene and, of course, d-limonene. These chemical components lend mandarin to be an excellent choice for calming blends, cleaning and anti-microbial blends and muscle spasms. It is a great replacement for the other citrus essential oils in blends because is not shown to be phototoxic. It can be a good substitute for bergamot in blends designed to be put on the skin to avoid the risk of sunburn.
What are the benefits of Mandarin Essential Oil?
The mandarin aroma is sweet and fruity and is a favourite amongst children. Like bergamot, it is great for calming kids down, and is perfect in lullaby blends. Mandarin combines well with most other essential oils – other citrus oils, floral, woody, spicy and herbaceous oils. Some suggestions include basil, cassia, lavender, clary sage, marjoram, jasmine and rose. This oil has great synergy with cypress and juniper berry essential oils, making it a good choice for opening the airways during the allergy season.
