Neroli essential oil is obtained by steam distillation of the flowers of the bitter orange tree, Citrus aurantium. Classified in the Hesperidae family of perfumes, its characteristic scent is similar to that of the bergamot flower, while steam distillation of the leaves and fresh twigs of the bigarade tree produces petitgrain bigarade essential oil. Distillation of the fruit peel yields sweet orange essential oil.
It has a refreshing and recognisable aroma, spicy with sweet and floral notes.
Neroli, Petitgrain Bigarade, and orange blossom, what's the difference?
Neroli, Petitgrain Bigarade, and orange blossom are all derived from the bitter orange tree (Citrus aurantium), but they are obtained from different parts of the tree and through different extraction methods.
Neroli
Neroli is an essential oil obtained by steam distillation of the flowers of the bitter orange tree. It has a greener and spicier scent.
Petit Grain Bigarade
Petit Grain Bigarade is an essential oil produced by distillation of the leaves and young shoots of the bitter orange tree. It has a scent that is both green and fruity.
Orange Blossom
Orange Blossom, or Orange Blossom Absolute, is obtained by solvent extraction of the flowers of the bitter orange tree. It has a warm scent, reminiscent of jasmine, with a sweet grape-like twist and an indolic undertone.
In summary, although these three oils come from the same tree, they are extracted from different parts of the tree and have distinct olfactory characteristics. They are all widely used in perfumery for their unique aromas.