Mandarin oil is an essential oil extracted from the cold-pressed peel of mandarin fruit. It has a remarkably sweet and floral aroma, and is a greenish-orange color. Mandarins are native to China where they were once given as gifts to the Emperor's officials, known as Mandarins. Mandarin oil is most well known therapeutically for relieving stress and anxiety, although it can boast myriad healthful properties.
Mandarin oil is a great antiseptic - it naturally kills bacteria. Citronellal, one of the chemicals found in mandarin oil is anti fungal. Because of its intrinsic cleansing properties, not only can mandarin oil clean the body, but also, it makes a pleasant smelling natural cleaner; just mix a few drops of the essential oil with water. Also, mandarin oil stops the infection of wounds; it creates a protective layer of cells by attracting blood platelets and leucocytes to the wounded area, blocking out all microbes.
As an antispasmodic, mandarin oil can be used to treat muscle spasms, as well as stomach cramps. The essential oil can be mixed with a carrier oil, such as almond or sesame, or even with milk, and then poured into a bath to relieve or even prevent muscle pain. To treat stomach cramps, a tea can be made with a few drops of mandarin oil added to it.
Mandarin oil also works wonders for the circulatory system. It increases blood flow directly underneath the skin. Mandarin oil is often used in creams and lotions, particularly to prevent stretch marks and to revitalize skin.
Another health benefit of mandarin oil is that it improves digestion by promoting stomach juices to discharge. In this way it also stimulates a healthy appetite. Mandarin oil is a depurative, meaning it helps remove toxins and impurities from the body. This purifies the blood, defends against infection, and prevents disease. Mandarin oil is considered an overall health tonic as it tones and cleanses all systems of the body, therefore boosting the body's immune system.
And of course mandarin oil, also known as the happy oil, works to relive anxiety, fight depression, and uplift mood. Its fresh, flowery aroma acts as a mild sedative. To release the aromatherapy benefits of mandarin oil, it can be either burned or steamed, creating a soothing, peaceful environment.
Mandarin oil is a safe, natural way to cleanse the body and the mind of the unwanted. It is delicate enough for children, and sweet enough to be used all the time. One word of caution, as with many oils, mandarin oil can be photo-toxic. It is not recommended to expose the skin to excessive sunlight after applying mandarin oil to the skin.
Sources:
http://www.organicfacts.net/health-bene fits/essential-oils/health-benefits-of-mandarin-esse ntial-oil.html
http://ezinearticles.com/?Mandarin-Pur e-Essential-Oil&id=112856
http://www.essentialoils.co.za/essential-oi ls/mandarin.htm