Orange essential oil is derived by cold pressing the rind until the oil is released. According to Roberta Wilson, “From early times, oranges have been associated with generosity and gratitude. Once called ‘golden apples,’ oranges symbolized innocence and fertility.”

Historically, oranges have been used for palpitation, scurvy, jaundice, bleeding, heartburn, relaxed throat, prolapse of the uterus and the anus, diarrhea, and blood in the feces. Some French medicinal uses include angina (false), cardiac spasm, constipation, diarrhea (chronic), dyspepsia (nervous), insomnia, menopause, and palpitation.

Today, orange oil is commonly used for anxiety, calming, constipation, indigestion, obesity, oily skin, uplifting, and water purification. This oil may also help appetite, bones (rickety), bronchitis, colds, colic (dilute for infants; helps them sleep), complexion (dull and oily), dermatitis, digestive system, fever, flu, lower cholesterol, mouth ulcers, muscle soreness, obesity, sedation, tissue repair, water retention, and wrinkles.

Orange oil contains properties that are anticancer, antidepressant, antiseptic, antispasmodic, digestive, sedative, and tonic.

Aromatically, orange brings peace and happiness to the mind and body and joy to the heart, which provide emotional support to help one overcome depression.

Source: Reference Guide to Essential Oils by Alan & Connie Higley