Evidence supporting the use of: Orange essential oil
For the health condition: Irritability
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2
Orange essential oil, derived from the rind of Citrus sinensis, has a long history of use in traditional aromatherapy to support mood and emotional well-being, including the alleviation of irritability and mild anxiety. In traditional practices, the bright and uplifting aroma of orange oil is believed to promote relaxation, reduce stress, and uplift the spirit, which may indirectly ease feelings of irritability. The use of citrus scents in traditional medicine systems, such as Traditional Chinese Medicine and folk remedies, often centers around their ability to "move Qi" and dispel negative emotions.
Scientific validation for these effects is preliminary but growing. Some small-scale studies and reviews have suggested that inhalation of orange essential oil may reduce anxiety and improve mood in specific settings, such as dental clinics or during stressful procedures. For example, a study published in Physiology & Behavior (2012) found that ambient orange odor reduced anxiety and improved mood in patients waiting for dental treatment. However, direct evidence specifically targeting “irritability” as a symptom is lacking, and most research focuses on broader emotional states like anxiety or stress.
In summary, the use of orange essential oil for irritability is grounded in traditional aromatherapeutic practice, supported by some preliminary scientific findings on mood and anxiety, but robust clinical evidence specific to irritability remains limited.
Other ingredients used for Irritability
5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP)ashwagandha
chamomile
Coptis chinensis
GABA (gamma aminobutyric acid)
lavender
maca
omega-3 fatty acids
passionflower
reishi mushroom
relora® (proprietary)
rhodiola
valerian root
vitamin B6
zinc
amber
St. John's Wort
Avens
Albizia
Dragonhead
Sweet Orange alcohol
Other health conditions supported by Orange essential oil
AnxietyAnxiety Disorders
Appetite (deficient)
Belching
Body Odor
Bruises (healing)
Canker Sores
Circulation (poor)
Colds (decongestant)
Colds (general)
Congestion
Congestion (sinus)
Depression
Digestion (poor)
Emotional Sensitivity
Energy (lack of)
Fatigue
Gas and Bloating
Headache (general)
Headache (tension)
Indigestion
Infection
Insomnia
Irritability
Menopause
Nausea and Vomiting
Pain (general remedies for)
Stress
Sugar Cravings
Worry