Petitgrain (Citrus aurantium var. amara) is a green essential oil with a green, fresh aroma and a heart note. Steam distillation from leaf, it is a versatile blending oil that pairs well with Bergamot (FCF), Lavender, Neroli. For topical use, keep dilution at or below 10%.
Aroma & character
Aroma
Traditional aromatherapy associations
Traditional associations only — not medical claims or evidence of efficacy.
Properties
| Perfumery note | Heart |
| Aroma family | Green |
| Chemical family | Ester |
| Material type | Essential oil |
| Extraction | Steam distillation |
| Plant part | leaf |
| Origin | Paraguay, France, Egypt |
| Blending factor | 6 |
| Volatility index | 3 |
| Tenacity (hours) | 6.0 |
| CAS number | 8014-17-3 |
Safety & dilution
| Max topical dilution | 10% |
| Max facial dilution | 5% |
| Pregnancy | Generally suitable when properly diluted |
| Nursing | Generally suitable when properly diluted |
| Children | Generally suitable, well diluted (from ~2 months) |
| Cats | Generally suitable when properly diluted |
| Dogs | Generally suitable when properly diluted |
Evidence: Traditional — EODB: 2 GC-MS analyses (Citrus aurantium).
For education only — not medical or veterinary advice. Essential oils are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any condition. Always patch-test and consult a qualified professional before use during pregnancy, on children, with pets, or with a health condition.
Plan safe amounts with our essential oil dilution calculator.
Blends well with
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Compare Petitgrain with
Frequently asked questions
What does Petitgrain essential oil smell like?
Petitgrain has a green, fresh aroma, classed as a green oil with a heart note.
What is the safe dilution for Petitgrain?
For topical use, keep Petitgrain at or below 10%, and 5% on facial skin. Always patch-test before wider use.
Is Petitgrain safe to use during pregnancy?
Petitgrain is generally considered suitable during pregnancy when properly diluted. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before use.
Is Petitgrain safe to use around children?
Petitgrain is generally considered suitable for children when well diluted (from around 2 months). Consult a professional for young children.
Is Petitgrain safe around pets?
For cats — generally lower-risk when well diluted and diffused sparingly; dogs — generally lower-risk when well diluted. Diffuse only in ventilated spaces and consult a veterinarian.
What does Petitgrain blend well with?
Petitgrain pairs well with Bergamot (FCF), Lavender, Neroli, Blood Orange, Geranium.