Orange

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Botanical

Skin Benefit

Brightens tone, supports collagen, gently astringent; helps cleanse oily skin (diluted).

Spiritual Benefit

Used in Mediterranean and Chinese skin preparations for centuries to clarify oily complexion and brighten dull tone.

The record

In use for 2,000+ years

Origin

Southern China and Southeast Asia, carried west along the trade routes.

Harvested

The peel is pressed for its oil, and the blossoms and fruit follow their own traditions.

Cultural impact

Oranges were gifts fit for emperors in China and status symbols in European orangeries. The peel's bright oil scented courts on two continents.

Traditional use

Peel and blossom worked into waters and oils that made skin and rooms smell like wealth and sunlight.

From the Field Notes

All field notes