Evidence supporting the use of: Orange essential oil
For the health condition: Worry
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 3
Orange essential oil (Citrus sinensis) has a long history of use in traditional aromatherapy practices to alleviate worry, anxiety, and promote relaxation. Its use is primarily grounded in tradition, with historical texts and anecdotal reports suggesting that the scent of orange peel or oil has calming effects. In various cultures, citrus scents have been used to uplift mood and ease emotional distress, including feelings of worry. The essential oil is commonly diffused, inhaled, or added to baths as part of relaxation rituals.
There is some emerging scientific interest in the anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) potential of orange essential oil, but the bulk of the evidence still comes from traditional use. Limited clinical studies have observed that inhalation of sweet orange oil may reduce anxiety in certain settings (such as dental offices or before minor medical procedures), though these studies are small and often not rigorously controlled. The proposed mechanism is that volatile compounds in the oil may influence neurotransmitter activity in the brain, leading to calming effects. However, more research is needed to confirm and clarify these effects, and to distinguish them from placebo.
In summary, the use of orange essential oil for worry is primarily based on traditional practice, supported by a few preliminary scientific studies, but not yet confirmed by robust clinical evidence.
Other ingredients used for Worry
5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP)ashwagandha
waterhyssop
benegut perilla (proprietary)
damiana
fennel
GABA (gamma aminobutyric acid)
guayusa
kudzu
l-theanine
l-tyrosine
lavender
lion's mane
magnesium
motherwort
ophiopogon root
polygala root
relora® (proprietary)
vitamin B6
zinc
cardamom
1,3,7-Trimethylpurine-2,6-dione
Albizia
Buddha's Hand
bacoside
Poppy
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