Tangerine
Citrus Reticulata
Tangerine Oil has a similar aroma to Orange Oil, and is used in skincare to brighten the skin and give your complexion a boost. It has a calming effect and can be used blended with other oils that target tired or tense muscles in the body to create a massage oil. In aromatherapy it can be used to aid restful sleep.
History of Tangerine Oil
Tangerine Oil is a powerful and potent essential oil which is native to China. It was used for thousands of years throughout Chinese culture and alternative health practices. The oil itself smells tangy, sweet and citrusy, with its botanical name being Citrus reticulata. It’s a strong antioxidant and has a number of beneficial properties. The oil and fruit has been cultivated for over 3,000 years across China as well as Japan. It started to rise in global popularity in the 1800's when it first arrived in Europe. The tangerine peel as well as the oil is used to treat a number of digestive disorders such as diarrhea, indigestion and vomiting caused by nausea.
Tangerine Oil is not to be confused with Orange Oil or Mandarin Oil, as although they are all from the same/similar families - their properties, scent and overall composition is very different. For example, even the harvesting times are different: Tangerines are harvested around November time whilst Mandarins are harvested in February. Today, Tangerine Oil is widely accessible and is a popular essential oil across aromatherapy as well as having a number of beneficial properties when applied topically. A brand which often uses Tangerine Oil in its products is Aesop, known for its all-natural products and beautiful scents. Tangerine Oil can also be found in some lip balms and glosses due to the pleasant taste and overall tang when applied to the lips!
So, what does the future look like for Tangerine Oil?
The future for Tangerine Oil is nothing short of positive! Not only has this oil got an impressive history behind it, but its accessibility, popularity, scent and benefits place it high on our favourites list! It’s an essential oil which isn’t considered ‘high end’ and can be accessed by pretty much anyone in the world. It can be a great alternative if you don’t like other citrus oils, or its sister oils such as mandarin, orange, bergamot or lemon. The beauty of this oil is its versatility, so we’d go as far as saying that this should definitely be an essential in your collection, as you’ll get a ton of use out of it!
Extracting Tangerine Oil
There are two methods that can be used on a commercial scale to extract Tangerine Oil. The first method is called steam distillation. This involves taking the peel/rind from tangerines and putting them into a steam distiller. Steam is then used to gently lift the oil from the rind. Once the water cools down and condenses, the oil which has been extracted will then sit on the top, where it can be separated and then put into bottles. The second method which can be used is called cold pressing. This involves taking the peels/rinds of the tangerine and using a cold press to squeeze the oil out of its porous surface area. The oil will then be transferred into bottles. These are the two most common methods as they are able to yield the most oil without damaging the overall composition of the oil. They’re the least invasive yet most effective methods!
Can I make Tangerine Oil at home?
Technically, yes you can! There are a few different ways that you can make the oil. The first two methods: steam distillation and cold pressing can be achieved providing you have the right equipment at home, as well as access to enough tangerine peel. The final method that you can use will not give you essential oil, however it’ll enable you to make an extract which can still smell great and give you some (albeit watered down) benefits. This method involves using a carrier oil (we recommend Jojoba Oil) and heating up the tangerine peel in the carrier oil for around 6-8 hours on a low heat. You’ll then have a gorgeous infusion of tangerine and jojoba!
What do you think of Tangerine Oil? Is it an essential in your collection? As always, the team loves to hear how you’re getting the most out of your collection. So, feel free to reach out and share your stories with one of the team today.
Can I make Tangerine Oil at home?
Technically, yes you can! There are a few different ways that you can make the oil. The first two methods: steam distillation and cold pressing can be achieved providing you have the right equipment at home, as well as access to enough tangerine peel. The final method that you can use will not give you essential oil, however it’ll enable you to make an extract which can still smell great and give you some (albeit watered down) benefits. This method involves using a carrier oil (we recommend Jojoba Oil) and heating up the tangerine peel in the carrier oil for around 6-8 hours on a low heat. You’ll then have a gorgeous infusion of tangerine and jojoba!
What do you think of Tangerine Oil? Is it an essential in your collection? As always, the team loves to hear how you’re getting the most out of your collection. So, feel free to reach out and share your stories with one of the team today.
Tangerine Oil Varieties
Tangerine Oil Varieties
In terms of the varieties of the oil, there aren’t distinct varieties throughout history which have been identified, however there are three major varieties of the fruit which are mentioned when researched: Clementines, Tangelos and Temples. Unfortunately, there is little research on the variations of Tangerine Oil aside from the fact that their geography may have an impact. For example, a distributor who produces Tangerine Oil from Morocco may have slightly different benefits to one from China, but again, there is no research based evidence to suggest this!
So, which variety of Tangerine Oil should I use?
As mentioned, there is nothing to suggest that one variation of Tangerine Oil is better than the other, purely for the fact that the variations aren’t made clear aside from their geography. However, you can assume that their scent, colour and overall composition (non-therapeutic) could be impacted by their location, as well as the price point - the best conditions would yield the highest oil, therefore at the best price. The worst conditions would yield the lowest oil, therefore at the highest price. We hope this guides your purchasing and we will continue to update this page if and when the variations are distinguished and there is evidence to suggest which variation is better than the other. For now, as long as you’re purchasing a Tangerine Oil which is 100% essential oil or “absolute” - then you’re getting an oil of high quality. Remember, if it is mixed with alcohols or carrier oils you unfortunately haven’t bought an essential oil.
What do you think of Tangerine Oil? Is it an essential in your collection? Is there a particular variety that you love? We love hearing from you all, so feel free and share your stories with one of the team today.
So, which variety of Tangerine Oil should I use?
As mentioned, there is nothing to suggest that one variation of Tangerine Oil is better than the other, purely for the fact that the variations aren’t made clear aside from their geography. However, you can assume that their scent, colour and overall composition (non-therapeutic) could be impacted by their location, as well as the price point - the best conditions would yield the highest oil, therefore at the best price. The worst conditions would yield the lowest oil, therefore at the highest price. We hope this guides your purchasing and we will continue to update this page if and when the variations are distinguished and there is evidence to suggest which variation is better than the other. For now, as long as you’re purchasing a Tangerine Oil which is 100% essential oil or “absolute” - then you’re getting an oil of high quality. Remember, if it is mixed with alcohols or carrier oils you unfortunately haven’t bought an essential oil.
What do you think of Tangerine Oil? Is it an essential in your collection? Is there a particular variety that you love? We love hearing from you all, so feel free and share your stories with one of the team today.
Benefits of Tangerine Oil
Tangerine Oil is a popular citrus oil which has been used for thousands of years. Originating in Ancient China and Japan, the oil has been used on a global scale as well as being commercialised by skincare and beauty brands, one of the most notable being Aesop. Tangerine Oil can be found in creams, lotions, serums, soaps and lip balms, and boasts a number of beneficial therapeutic and aesthetic properties! Read more to learn about its benefits...
So, what are the benefits of Tangerine Oil?
Antioxidant
Tangerine Oil is packed full of natural antioxidants, which you can benefit from topically.
Improves digestion
Similar to its antioxidant properties, Tangerine Oil naturally improves digestion. So if you’re struggling with excess gas, stomach pains and discomfort - blend with a carrier oil and gently rub into your abdomen as part of your morning routine at least three times a week!
Boosts mood
Feeling down and groggy? Add a few drops into your electric diffuser and thank us later. Tangerine Oil is a natural mood booster and will leave you feeling energised and ready for the day.
Non-irritable
Tangerine Oil is one of the few essential oils which isn’t irritating to the skin*. It can also, in some circumstances, be applied directly without a carrier oil due to the low risk of irritation.
Improves respiratory health
When inhaled or rubbed into the chest and feet, Tangerine Oil can help to clear your respiratory system and improve your health overall.
Anti-anxiety
Similar to being a natural mood booster, Tangerine Oil can reduce feelings of anxiety and depression - which is great if you’re looking for a natural method that will reduce your stress levels.
Please note that the benefits of Tangerine Oil can vary from person to person, and what may work for you may not work for someone else. A lot of studies conducted on essential oils are anecdotal, so unless there is scientific evidence of a claim - be wary that some of the benefits may not work for you. *If you are pregnant or breastfeeding you should always consult with a doctor before use, even if an essential oil is deemed ‘safe’ for you to use!
Uses of Tangerine Oil
Tangerine Oil is a popular essential oil that is part of the citrus family of essential oils. It originated in China and Japan thousands of years ago, and since its use in medicine and perfumery, it has grown in popularity as one of the most well known essential oils today! It first rose to commercial prominence in the 1800's, where it was used in Europe and the Middle East. Today, it is commonly used in cooking, aromatherapy, perfume and massage. It is a widely accessible essential oil which can also be made in the comfort of your own home. The oil is extracted using steam distillation as well as cold pressing methods, and the scent is sweet and tangy!
So, what can I use Tangerine Oil for?
Aromatherapy
In aromatherapy, Tangerine Oil is particularly effective when you need to boost your mood and rid yourself of fatigue, anxiety and stress. You can either use the oil on its own or blended with other stress-busting oils such as Bergamot Oil or Lemon Oil.
Skincare
Tangerine Oil can be used topically with ease, as it is one of the few essential oils that doesn’t irritate the skin - meaning that you could apply it without a carrier oil. Use Tangerine Oil to boost your complexion, clear your pores and leave your skin packed with moisture.
Massage
Not only does it have an amazing scent, but massaging Tangerine Oil into your muscles can help to soothe them if they’re tired and aching as well as stimulating blood flow around your body.
Baking
Tangerine Oil is one of the few essential oils that can be ingested in small quantities, making it perfect if you’re looking for a multi-use oil which can also be used in baking and cooking savoury dishes. Adding a few drops to the mixture can bring out a gorgeous aromatic flavour - just delicious!
Cleaning products
Like many other citrus oils on the market, Tangerine Oil can work incredibly well as an all purpose cleaner for your kitchen and bathroom. Add to hot water and vinegar and you have an antibacterial home cleaner that can cut through grime and dirt in seconds.
Candles
If you’re someone who likes to make candles, adding a few drops of Tangerine Oil can give you a gorgeous scent throughout the home, or create lovely candles which you can gift to friends.
Blends well with
Here at Essentially Yours we love sharing our tips and knowledge with you. Whether it’s understanding the benefits of an oil, finding out its history or wanting to see the best blends - don’t worry; we’ve got you covered. In this blog we’re going to talk about Tangerine Oil and what it blends well with. So, if you want to learn more - keep reading.
Coconut Oil
Creamy and nourishing, we love this blend because it can work perfectly as a soothing massage oil as well as a boosting hair and skin treatment. Remember, Coconut Oil is solid at room temperature - so to make this blend you’ll need to warm up the mixture first. One of our favourite ways to use this is as a lip balm right before bed, nourishing and hydrating your lips whilst you sleep.
BUY NOW
Almond Oil
Sweet and light, we love this blend for massage, especially if you don’t like the thickness of Coconut Oil on your skin. This can work well as a facial oil, too.
BUY NOW
Jojoba Oil
If you’re someone who struggles with sensitive or acne-prone skin, then this is the best carrier oil to blend Tangerine Oil with. It has a similar makeup to your skin’s natural oils, making it perfect for those who are reluctant to use a facial oil due to excess sebum building up. You simply won’t have that issue with this blend.
BUY NOW
Bergamot Oil
Fragrant and aromatic, this is a gorgeous blend if you’re looking for a relaxing bath, or a massage oil. Add a few drops into a hot bath to calm and soothe you, or into a massage oil to relieve sore muscles and joints.
BUY NOW
Clary Sage Oil
If you’re struggling with muscular and joint pain, this is a great blend to use. It’s also good at tackling menstrual cramps and pains associated with your period.
BUY NOW
Lavender Oil
We love Lavender Oil because it works with practically every essential oil on the market. This blend is great to aid restful sleep, as well as creating a luxurious and soothing body moisturiser.
BUY NOW
