Native to southeast Asia, Mandarin essential oil is derived from the Mandarin Orange Tree or Citrus nobilis, to give its INCI name (International Nomenclature Cosmetic Ingredient). A small tree, it has pretty and fragrant white flowers with shiny deep green leaves and its golden fruit is enjoyed by many for its sweet taste and low-level acidity.
The name ‘Mandarin’ literally means ‘gold’ in Cantonese and was traditionally given by the Chinese Empire as a gift to symbolise fortune and prosperity and is still given as a gift of hope to this day. It reached western shores in 1805 and then later to America, where it was known as Tangerine.
Mandarin essential oil has powerful properties to uplift and create a sense of happiness.
The science bit!
Mandarin essential oil is extracted by the cold-pressing of the peel. Cold pressing is a traditional method that’s used for many oils that degrade when exposed to heat, such as lemon, orange, and grapefruit. Before expression, the fruit and white pith are removed. In some countries the rinds are still pressed by hand, however, more often than not a mechanical press is used, with tiny spikes which roll over the rinds, squeezing the essential oil from the peel. Occasionally, there will be some fruit juice expelled in the process too, so at the end of the expression, the essential oil is skimmed from the top, separating the two layers. It is produced mainly in Italy, Algeria, Spain, and Cyprus, and in slightly smaller quantities in Greece and the Middle East.
When choosing your oil, you may find that you have a choice between green, yellow, or red mandarin. This is due to the ripeness of the Mandarin used, with green cold pressed from the unripe fruit, yellow from the partially ripe and red from the fully ripe fruit. Green mandarin oil has a slightly bitter note, similar to lime. Here at Duxmore, we prefer to work with red mandarin in our range, for its fresh, fruity notes and gorgeous golden colour.
Botanical notes
A vibrant, sweet orange-esque and slightly floral aroma, Mandarin helps to uplift and create a sense of calm. In France, Mandarin essential oil is known as ‘childs remedy’ as it is considered gentle enough for use on children at a low percentage, as the calming effects can help when anxious or overstimulated.
A delicate and sweet top note with a slightly warming base, Mandarin blends well with Bergamot, Neroli, Cinnamon and Clove. It is widely used in perfumery to bring a fresh, fruity and sparkling note to compositions. You’ll find notes in many famous perfumes such as the classic Lime, Basil & Mandarin from Jo Malone and Bvlgari Aqua Amara.
Best use
Mandarin essential oil has a range of uses in particular for treating patients that are more fragile, including children, the elderly and post-sickness. Its tonic and antispasmodic properties bring a revitalising and strengthening effect, due to its cheerful nature.
With its citrus aroma, it helps to provide a calming atmosphere making it perfect for aromatherapy and massage or a lovely natural way to support your mental well-being by uplifting and invigorate your space.
We blend Mandarin with purifying Eucalyptus to create an invigorating scent to awaken and energise. You’ll find this combination in our range of our most popular products including our Indulgent Body Scrub and Room & Linen Mist. Shop the range here.