Family: Rutaceae

Synonyms: C.nobilis, C.deliciosa, C. madurensis

Aroma: Sweet, fresh, citrus, mandarin

Colour: Green, reddish orange.

Plant: Smaller and more spreading than the orange tree with smaller leaves and fruit which are slightly flattened at both ends.

Main Growing Areas: Brazil, Spain, Italy, California, China, Australia.

Major Constituents: a-pinene, a-thujone, limonene, y-terpinolene, methyl N methyl- anthranilate.

Interesting snippets: The fruit was a traditional gift to the mandarins of China.
Symbol of prosperity and good fortune during Chinese New Year.
The giant swallowtail butterfly relies on the citrus family for larval food to produce the caterpillars.

Part of Plant used / Extraction: Fruit peel is cold pressed.

Therapeutic actions: In France mandarin is considered a safe children’s remedy for indigestion and hiccups. Antispasmodic, useful for PMS and cramped muscles. Prevents stretchmarks in pregnancy.

Emotional and Spiritual: Uplifting, depression, anxiety, irritable over-tired children.

Aromatherapy Insight Card:

HAPPINESS
Mandarin oil brings that happiness and childlike quality to life.
Time to lighten up and enjoy life. I always think of a child peeling a mandarin when I smell this aroma. I see their faces lighting up as they peel the fruit with ease. Bring out your inner child to play, and remove abuse and grimness from your life. Stop dwelling on the past and let’s get back to enjoying life again.
Mandarin allows you to feel calm and soothed, but, at the same time, refreshed and inspired. Be happy.

Fragrant Change Healing Card: I make time for fun and play every day.

Safety: Non-irritating, non-sensitising, non-toxic. Keep in the fridge to prolong her shelf life (around a year). If she smells pinelike don’t use her on the skin as she may cause skin sensitization. Can still be used in a vaporiser or for cleaning without problems.

Sources: Atterby D, Mandarin Essential Oil Profile. Aromatherapy Today, Vol.44 (2009)
Battaglia S, The Complete Guide To Aromatherapy. The Perfect Potion, Australia (1995)
Bowles E.J, The A to Z of Essential Oils. New Burlington Books (2003)
Jefferies J, Osborn. K, Aromatherapy Insight Cards. Living Energy, Aust. (2nd Ed. 2005)