What is the chemical composition of orange blossom hydrosol?

The orange blossom is a flower of white or pale pink colour. It grows on the bitter orange tree, a shrub native to India that is now found around the Mediterranean. Its hydrosol is derived from the steam distillation of the dried flowers. This method involves mixing and heating the plant residues with water in a still, then cooling the steam in a condenser to recover it in liquid form. The essential oil, less dense than the water used for extraction, then floats on the surface, which 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.

Firstly, this hydrosol is rich in moleculesantioxidantssuch asvitamin C andflavonoids (hesperidoside and naringoside). These arepolyphenols capable of neutralising free radicals. As a reminder, 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 free radicals by making them more stable and therefore less reactive. This hydrosol is therefore recommended to fight against 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 found in this hydrosol, 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 that act against skin inflammation. It relieves irritated skin and can thus be used as an after-sun treatment.

Our orange blossom hydrosol has been distilled from organically grown orange blossoms, 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).