Orange Blood - Citrus sinensis

History: The Blood, Moro, or Maltese Oranges are very old orange varieties. There is some historical evidence that the blood orange hybrid first appeared in Southern Europe around 1850 and was then brought to North America many decades later by Spanish and Italian immigrants. In the former British Empire, blood oranges were called "Maltese" oranges. They are closely related to 'Jaffa' orange varieties. Some writers have theorized that Jaffa is a blood orange variant. 

In Sicily, the "blood," "blood-red." or "blush" orange gained its nickname because of its ruby flesh that contains the red pigment anthocyanin, a strong antioxidant. Today, blood oranges are considered the hallmark of Sicilian fruit.

Characteristics:  All blood oranges tend to contain few seeds, and have red-pigmented flesh and peel that can cause a "blush" of pigment when the peel is damaged or removed. The appearance of the red flesh and deep red juice can be striking. Usually the inside of the fruit is darkly pigmented. When ripe, the skin can also exhibit a reddish blush to a deep-red cast, depending on the variety.

Pure blood orange essential oil from Sicily is a vibrant golden orange oil displaying a rich, sweet fruity bouquet, with the tangy odor of the peel playing a more reserved role than in other citrus peel oils. It is a fine addition to any composition in which other citrus oils play an important role. 

Indications:  Blood Orange Essential Oil is considered to have anti-depressant, antiseptic, anti-spasmodic and aphrodisiac properties. 

Safety: Avoid exposure to sunlight after skin application due to possible photo-toxicity. 

References:
Battaglia, S.  The Complete Guide to Aromatherapy; Third Edition The International Centre of Holistic Aromatherapy, Australia, 2017
Tisserand R. Young R.  Essential Oil Safety, second edition.  Churchhill Livingstone, UK, 2013
Sheppard-Hanger S. The Aromatherapy Practitioner Reference Manual.  Atlantic Institute of Aromatherapy, USA, 2000
Caddy R. Essential Oils in Colour.  Amberwood Publishing, UK, 2005
Lawless J. The encyclopaedia of Essential Oils.  Element Books Limited, GB, 1992
Caddy R. the Essential Blending Guide.  Amberwood Publishing, UK, 2007
Weaver W.W. Sauer’s Herbal Cures.  Routledge, UK, 2001
World Wide Web Encyclopedia Britannica. USA, 2014
Photos attribution – istock Photos
LabAroma

Safety Considerations:
        Do not take essential oils internally.
        Do not apply to eyes, sensitive areas or mucous membranes.
        Do not apply undiluted to skin (for directions on proper dilution refer to an aromatherapy text).
        The information on this website is not intended to diagnose or prescribe.
        Pregnant women, nursing mothers and children should not use essential oils without first consulting a healthcare provider.
        The statements on this website have not been evaluated by the FDA.
        You should not use this information for treating a health problem or disease or to make a self-diagnosis.
        Contact your Health Care provider immediately if you suspect that you have a medical problem.

Information and statements regarding Kelley products have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any health condition or disease. 
All information, content and product descriptions contained within this site is for reference purposes and is not intended to substitute advice given by a pharmacist, physician, or other licensed health-care professional. You should not use this information for treating a health problem or disease or to make a self-diagnosis.  
Contact your Health Care provider immediately if you suspect that you have a medical problem.