This or That: Petitgrain Bigarade vs Petitgrain Mandarin

The name “Petitgrain,” meaning “little grain,” originally referred to the unripe green fruits from which these oils were once distilled. Today, Petitgrain Essential Oils are primarily extracted from the leaves and twigs of various citrus trees, offering a wealth of benefits for both body and mind.

Among the most well-known species are Petitgrain Bigarade Essential Oil and Petitgrain Mandarin Essential Oil. While both originate from different citrus species (Petitgrain Bigarade comes from Bitter Orange tree while Petitgrain Mandarin comes from Mandarin tree), they share a reputation for promoting emotional balance, digestive comfort, and overall well-being.* However, their unique compositions give each oil its own character — Petitgrain Bigarade exudes a refined, slightly floral freshness, while Petitgrain Mandarin offers a softer, fruitier aroma with a delicate bitterness. Notably, Petitgrain Mandarin stands out with its distinctly bitter scent, which is significantly stronger than the others mentioned here.

So how do these two compare in terms of their properties and uses? Let’s explore the key differences and benefits of Petitgrain Bigarade vs Petitgrain Mandarin to help you choose the right one for your needs.

Petitgrain Bigarade: The Elegant Balance of Freshness and Calm

Petitgrain Bigarade Essential Oil is derived from the leaves and twigs of the Bitter Orange tree through steam distillation. Unlike its floral counterpart, Neroli, which comes from the tree’s blossoms, Petitgrain Bigarade offers a fresh, zesty, and subtly floral aroma with woody undertones. This oil has been cherished for its ability to promote both physical and emotional well-being, making it a versatile addition to natural wellness practices.* Petitgrain Bigarade is sometimes called the poor man’s (or woman’s) Neroli.

Known for its calming and balancing properties, Petitgrain Bigarade is particularly valued for its effects on the nervous system. It helps ease stress, nervous exhaustion, and emotional tension while promoting a sense of relaxation and clarity.* Petitgrain Bigarade may help those who experience restless sleep by fostering a calm and peaceful nighttime atmosphere.* Additionally, it plays a role in digestive wellness by soothing occasional discomfort, bloating, and indigestion, helping to restore balance to the gut.*

Beyond its emotional and digestive benefits, Petitgrain Bigarade is also a valuable ally when dealing with your skin. Its ability to regulate oil production makes it an excellent choice for those dealing with excessively oily skin, blemishes, or acne-prone complexions.* Please note: this is the only skin type where using Petitgrain Bigarade is okay; generally speaking, it is not recommended for skincare. The oil’s mild astringent properties help tone the skin, reducing the appearance of excess shine while maintaining a balanced complexion.* Petitgrain Bigarade also offers respiratory support, promoting steady, deep breathing and relaxation during moments of tension.*

How to Use Petitgrain Bigarade Essential Oil

Petitgrain Bigarade can be used in several ways to support overall wellness. For topical application, it should be diluted up to 3% in a carrier oil (no more than 15 drops per tablespoon of carrier oil) and applied to targeted areas for stress relief, digestive comfort, or skincare support for oily/acne skin.* A max dilution of 2% (no more than 10 drops per tablespoon of carrier oil) is ideal for full-body massage or skincare regimens, providing a grounding and soothing experience for both body and mind.* When applied consistently, Petitgrain Bigarade helps create a sense of emotional stability and promotes clearer, healthier skin for these specific skin types.*

For a deeply relaxing experience, Petitgrain Bigarade can be added to a warm bath.* Diluting up to 10 drops in bath salts or a dispersing agent allows the oil to blend seamlessly into the water, creating a spa-like environment that soothes the nervous system, supports digestion, and nurtures the skin.* This method is especially beneficial for those looking to unwind after a long day or ease feelings of tension and stress.*

Aromatic use is another effective way to experience the benefits of Petitgrain Bigarade. Diffusing a few drops in an essential oil diffuser can create a calming atmosphere, perfect for relaxation, mental clarity, or restful sleep.* It can also be used in a personal inhaler to support deep breathing and emotional balance throughout the day.* Whether used in topical applications, baths, or inhalation, Petitgrain Bigarade remains a powerful companion for holistic well-being, nurturing both the body and mind.*

Petitgrain Mandarin: The Gentle Harmony of Citrus, Bitterness, and Sweetness

Petitgrain Mandarin Essential Oil is distilled from the leaves of the Mandarin tree, offering a more intense and complex aroma compared to Petitgrain Bigarade. Its scent is a captivating blend of fruity, bitter, and floral notes, making it both refreshing and deeply soothing. This essential oil is widely appreciated for its ability to support emotional balance, making it a powerful companion during times of stress, anxiety, or sadness.* Its calming influence on the nervous system helps ease mental agitation, fostering a sense of tranquility and relaxation.*

Beyond its emotional benefits, Petitgrain Mandarin is particularly valued for its ability to promote restful sleep.* Its grounding and soothing nature help quiet an overactive mind, making it an excellent addition to a bedtime routine.* Those struggling with restlessness or occasional insomnia may find comfort in its gentle, sedative-like properties, which help create a peaceful environment for deep, rejuvenating sleep.* This aroma can be rather intense, but it also has a powerful calming effect that lends itself perfectly to creating blends with Petitgrain Mandarin.*

Petitgrain Mandarin also plays a supportive role in digestive wellness. It helps ease occasional bloating, relaxes the digestive tract, and promotes balanced digestion.* Its soothing properties make it an excellent choice for individuals looking to maintain overall digestive comfort while also benefiting from its uplifting and harmonizing effects on the mind and body.*

How to Use Petitgrain Mandarin Essential Oil

For topical use, Petitgrain Mandarin should be diluted up to 3% in a carrier oil (no more than 15 drops per tablespoon of carrier oil) and applied to areas of tension or digestive discomfort.* It is important to note that this oil has photo-sensitizing properties, so applied areas should not be exposed to sunlight for at least eight hours.* A 2% dilution (no more than 10 drops per tablespoon of carrier oil) works well for full-body massage, helping to ease nervous tension, reduce mental fatigue, and promote emotional balance while also soothing the digestive system.*

Adding Petitgrain Mandarin to a warm bath enhances relaxation and promotes deep tranquility.* When diluted in bath salts or a dispersing agent, this essential oil helps ease stress, calm an overactive mind, and support digestive balance.* This method is particularly beneficial for those seeking to unwind both physically and emotionally after a long day.*

Diffusing Petitgrain Mandarin is another effective way to experience its therapeutic benefits. A few drops in a diffuser or personal inhaler can create a serene atmosphere, helping to alleviate feelings of sadness, promote creative inspiration, and encourage a restful night’s sleep.* Whether used for emotional balance, sleep support, or digestive well-being, Petitgrain Mandarin Essential Oil remains a valuable tool for holistic wellness.* However, due to its strong bitter aroma, you may be better off blending it with other calming oils.

Nebulizer Blends for Relaxation, Balance, and Uplifted Moods Using Petitgrain

Petitgrain Bigarade blends beautifully with warm, floral, and citrusy oils, making it a versatile choice for emotional balance and relaxation.* For a stress-relief blend, combine Petitgrain Bigarade, Bergamot, and Ylang Ylang in a nebulizer. This uplifting yet calming combination helps ease mental tension, reduce nervous fatigue, and encourage a peaceful state of mind.* If you need a comforting and grounding blend, try Petitgrain Bigarade, Benzoin, and Clary Sage. This rich, resinous aroma provides emotional warmth and stability, making it a great choice for unwinding after a long day.*

Petitgrain Mandarin, with its vibrant yet soothing citrus-floral profile, pairs well with fresh and woody essential oils for both mental clarity and relaxation.* To add a fresh, revitalizing edge, mix Petitgrain Mandarin with bright notes like Lemon or Clary Sage, which can invigorate your mood and provide mental clarity.* This refreshing combination promotes creativity and an overall positive mood, making it perfect for daytime diffusion.* For a more soothing and grounding experience, blend Petitgrain Mandarin, Copaiba, and Himalayan Cedar. This earthy-woody blend is excellent for deep relaxation, helping to calm restlessness and prepare the body for a restful night’s sleep.* Whether you seek an emotional uplift or a moment of calm, these carefully crafted blends allow Petitgrain Essential Oils to shine in your aromatherapy routine.*

Here are some recipes for you to try in your nebulizer:

Final Thoughts from Dr. Streicher and Amrita’s Experts

Petitgrain Bigarade Essential Oil and Petitgrain Mandarin Essential Oil each offer a unique and powerful way to support emotional balance, relaxation, and overall well-being. Petitgrain Bigarade, with its fresh, slightly woody, and floral aroma, is a trusted companion for easing stress, calming the nervous system, and promoting restful sleep.* Its ability to support oily and acne-prone skin and digestive system further enhances its versatility, making it a valuable addition to any wellness routine.* Whether diffused for a soothing atmosphere, applied topically for targeted support, or added to a bath for deep relaxation, Petitgrain Bigarade fosters both clarity and tranquility.*

On the other hand, Petitgrain Mandarin provides a more complex and vibrant aromatic experience, blending citrusy, floral, and bitter notes to uplift the mood and soothe the mind.* Known for its ability to ease emotional tension, encourage relaxation, and support digestion, this oil is a wonderful ally for those seeking both mental and physical harmony.* With its grounding yet uplifting properties, Petitgrain Mandarin is an excellent choice for promoting inner peace, enhancing creativity, and encouraging a sense of calm.* Whether used in a diffuser, in massage blends, or as part of a nighttime routine, Petitgrain Mandarin helps create a space of comfort and renewal.* It is the most suitable to use as an ingredient in calming blends.

Both oils are powerful tools for emotional and physical well-being, each offering its own special touch. Incorporating Petitgrain Bigarade and Petitgrain Mandarin into your daily routine can provide a gentle yet effective way to nurture the body and mind, helping you navigate life’s challenges with greater ease and balance.*

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.