A flower with calming properties and a delicate fragrance

Native to the Mediterranean region, the bitter orange tree offers a flowering with remarkable virtues. The flower buds contain the precursors of neroli and petitgrain essential oils. Their use in infusions is appreciated for its ability to gently relax without causing excessive drowsiness. They are also suitable for the formulation of wellness herbal teas, relaxing treatments, or floral baths.

Description

Whole dried flower buds, small, cream to light beige in color, delicate floral and fruity fragrance, mild, slightly bitter and sweet taste.

Nomenclature

• Common name: Bitter orange tree, Bitter orange tree
• Latin name: Citrus aurantium var. amara
• Family: Rutaceae
• Part used: Flower bud
• Form: Whole, dried
• Origin: Morocco, Tunisia, Spain
• English name: Bitter orange flower buds
• German name: Bitterorangenblütenknospen
• Name in Spanish: Capullos de azahar
• Name in Italian: Boccioli di fiori di arancio amaro
• Name in Arabic: براعم زهر النارنج

Main virtues

Calming to the nervous system, antispasmodic, digestive, slightly sedative, mildly aromatic.

Main constituents

Flavonoids, linalool, nerol, geraniol, traces of limonene and linalyl acetate, mucilages.

Traditional use and dosage

• Infusion: 1 tablespoon of buds for 250 ml of simmering water, infuse for 10 to 15 minutes. Consume in the evening or after meals.
• Macerate or gentle decoction: for relaxing baths or homemade floral lotions.
• Traditional association: with lemon verbena, lemon balm or lime blossom.

Precautions, side effects and contraindications

• Well tolerated, even in children from 6 years old (reduced dose).
• Do not exceed doses in case of sedative treatment (possible cumulative effect).
• Not recommended for people allergic to Rutaceae (citrus fruits).

History and use

Highly valued in Mediterranean traditions, the flower bud of the bitter orange tree has been used for centuries to soothe tension and promote sleep. It was often added to evening family infusions, feminine care products, and homemade floral preparations. Less concentrated than the blooming flower (neroli), the bud allows for a gentler and more subtle use.

Miscellaneous information

• Packaging: resealable kraft bag or airtight opaque box.
• Storage: dry, away from light and humidity.
• Shelf life: 12 to 18 months.
• TARIC customs code: 1211.90.86.00

Sources and references

• Pl@ntUse – https://uses.plantnet-project.org
• Mediterranean herbalism works
• Traditional treatises on herbal medicine and gentle aromatherapy

Note to project creators and formulators:

Please note that we do not provide any technical documentation (datasheet, certificate, analysis, etc.) for quantities less than 1 kg. Documentation is reserved exclusively for registered professionals (SIRET number or equivalent required) and for clearly identified projects. Thank you for your understanding.

🔎 Information

The products on aromacentre.fr are not medicines. They are natural, plant-based treatments. All usage advice on our site is for informational purposes only. Any additional requests should be made to a qualified healthcare professional. In accordance with Regulation (EC) No 1924/2006 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 20 December 2006 on nutrition and health claims made on foods, we are unable to publish this information on the site. Taking this product does not exempt you from consulting a doctor or prescribing it. Ask your doctor or healthcare practitioner for advice. Be sure to read the precautions for use before using any medicinal plants. The use of herbal preparations is not recommended without consulting your doctor or pharmacist. The substances they contain may interact with medications prescribed by the patient, reducing their therapeutic effectiveness or causing toxicity. They can also worsen the weakening of the body's vital functions, thus exposing the patient to increased morbidity and life-threatening risks.

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