Grapefruit (Organic)

Limonene makes up the greater part of grapefruit oil, yet it is not the compound that makes the oil smell of grapefruit. The recognisable character comes from minor constituents: the aliphatic aldehydes octanal and decanal, and trace sesquiterpene ketones such as nootkatone. Oils thinned with cheap limonene lose that character first.

01 · Origin

Citrus paradisi is a citrus of comparatively recent origin, arising in the Caribbean from a cross involving pomelo and sweet orange. This oil is cold-pressed from the peel of white grapefruit grown under certified organic cultivation in Israel. A pink grapefruit oil from Italy (No. 2386) sits in the same range for comparison.

02 · Chemistry

Limonene dominates, followed by myrcene and alpha-pinene. Octanal and decanal sit at low proportion and give the peel its sharp, slightly bitter brightness. As a pressed oil it also carries non-volatile material from the peel, including coumarins. Monoterpene-rich citrus oils oxidise readily once opened.

03 · In Practice

Fresh, sharp and bitter-sweet, lighter and less sugary than sweet orange. A top note in natural perfumery, short-lived on the blotter. Diffusion, room sprays, massage blends and natural perfumery. Blends with bergamot, cypress, juniper, rosemary, lavender, ylang ylang and frankincense.

General information: For external use only. Dilute before applying to skin. Keep away from heat and sunlight. Keep out of reach of children. Avoid contact with eyes and mucous membranes.