What is "Citrus Aurantium Amara Flower Water" and what is its utility?

The orange blossom grows on the bitter orange tree, also known as bitter orange. The origin of this shrub is somewhat unclear, with some asserting it comes from India, while others believe it first sprouted on Chinese soil. It was following the Crusades, around the 11th century, that the bitter orange tree appeared around the Mediterranean (particularly in Andalusia). The orange blossom is also known as "neroli", in reference to the Princess of Neroli (an Italian town) who popularised its use in perfumery in the 16th century. This scent was indeed the favourite of King Louis XIV; it became a staple at court during his reign.

Orange Blossom Hydrosol is derived from the steam distillation of dried flowers.This method involves mixing and heating the plant residues with water in a still, then cooling the water vapour in a condenser to recover it in liquid form. The essential oil, less dense than the water used for extraction, floats on the surface and is none other than the hydrosol. This is recognised in cosmetics for its regenerative properties and its ability to tone devitalised skin. Unlike essential oil, it can be used without contraindications by children and pregnant women as it is less concentrated in active species. The orange blossom hydrosol presents itself as a colourless to whitish liquid with a characteristic sweet and floral scent.

This hydrosol is rich in molecules antioxidants such as vitamin C and flavonoids (hesperidoside and naringoside). These are polyphenols capable of neutralising free radicals. To recall, free radicals are highly reactive molecules because they are extremely unstable due to their unpaired electron. They degrade cell membranes, the DNA that carries the genetic code, proteins, enzymes... They thus accelerate the ageing process of the body. The hydroxy and phenoxy groups of the flavonoids present in the orange blossom hydrosol donate electrons to deactivate the free radicals by making them more stable and therefore less reactive. This hydrosol is therefore recommended to combat premature ageing of the epidermis, restore radiance to the complexion and brighten the skin.

The orange blossom hydrosol also contains terpenes such as linalool. This molecule is a recognised allergen, but its low quantity in the hydrosol does not make it irritating. Linalool is a compound with fragrant properties as well as relaxing effects on the nervous system. The limonene is also a terpene contained in this hydrosol, originally responsible for the scent of lemon and orange. This molecule with anti-inflammatory properties soothes redness. Therefore, orange blossom hydrosol is recommended for delicate and sensitive skin. Moreover, it also contains esters, sesquiterpenols and sesquiterpenes acting against skin inflammations. It relieves irritated skin and can thus be used as an after-sun treatment.

Note : When applied to hair, orange blossom hydrosol soothes and purifies irritated scalps. As for nails, it reduces their discolouration and provides the necessary hydration to keep them healthy.

At Typology, theorange blossom hydrosol has been distilled from organically grown orange flowers, cultivated and harvested in Morocco. It is used pure, morning and evening, on clean and dry skin, to revive its radiance and soothe any potential irritations.

You can also enjoy the benefits of this hydrosol with our moisturising gel made with aloe vera and organic orange blossom for the face and body. Itsoothes the skin and deeply hydrates. We recommend applying a small amount to clean, dry skin and massaging until fully absorbed. Its melting and light texture penetrates quickly and leaves the skin soft and comfortable, without a sticky finish.

• FARAMARZI M. A. & al. GC/MS Analysis of Citrus aurantium L. hydrolate and its comparison with the commercial samples. International Journal of Production Research (2004).

• HEO M. T. & al. Biological screening of 100 plant extracts for cosmetic use (II): anti-oxidative activity and free radical scavenging activity. International Journal of Cosmetic Science (2008).