by Janette Peel

Created on: February 21, 2009

Mandarin oil is a useful remedy for many digestive complaints and can be used on babies because of its gentle properties.

Bright and cheerful, the delicate, sweet, tangy aroma of mandarin is refreshing and uplifting. Mandarin essential oil, expressed from the peel of mandarin fruit, has a range of gentle therapeutic properties. Its soft citrus scent is mild enough for babies and children and can be used throughout pregnancy.

Mandarin's primary action is as a tonic that aids the digestive process. It stimulates the appetite and the liver, helping to regulate digestion and the breakdown of fat. It has proved useful for soothing stomach cramps, morning sickness and indigestion. Used as part of a detoxifying programme, it reduces fluid retention and purifies the body.

Mandarin oil is a very effective treatment for scars and stretch marks, especially when combined with neroli and lavender. Its astringent action helps to clear congested and oily complexions and can be used to increase the firmness of loose skin.

Mandarin oil has a soothing effect on the digestive system. The oil is particularly good for treating insomnia, nervousness and stress.

Active ingredients that mandarin oil contains are:

Monoterpenes: The monoterpene limonene gives mandarin stimulating, antiseptic and antibacterial qualities. High concentrations of monoterpenes make the oil prone to oxidation. Purchase mandarin oil in small quantities and use within six months.

Aldehydes:
Mandarin contains Citral and citronellal.

Alcohols:
The alcohol geraniol is responsible for the oil's uplifting qualities.

Traditionally offered as a token of respect in ancient China, mandarin and its associated oil can be used in a range of treatments for many conditions.

Mandarin's astringent action is beneficial on oil, congested skin. It tones loose skin and can be used to heal scars and damaged tissue.

Use the following facial massage blend to ease oily skin:

4 drops mandarin oil

4 drops cypress oil

3 drops juniper oil

20ml jojoba carrier oil

The mandarin and juniper will help tone congested skin and the cypress helps balance sebum production.

Mandarin gel or massage oil can also help to firm skin after weight loss, especially if mixed with frankincense oil and rubbed into the buttocks.

The following blend promoted cellular regeneration and the wheatgerm base oil nourished new tissue making it ideal for healing scars and reducing stretch marks:

2 drops each of mandarin oil, lavender oil and neroli oil and 5ml of wheatgerm carrier oil.

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