Petitgrain, also known as "Petitgrain bigarade", is an essential oil extracted from the leaves and green twigs of the bitter orange tree (Citrus aurantium ssp. amara) via steam distillation. The name “Petitgrain” translates to "small grain" in French, referring to the small, unripe oranges from which the oil was originally extracted. Today, twigs and leaves are more likely to be used. Its main regions of production are Paraguay and France, with the former's product being of higher odour tenacity. The oil has a greenish woody orange smell that is widely used in perfumery and found in colognes. Though distilled from the same botanical species as neroli and bitter orange essential oil, petitgrain bigarade oil possesses its own characteristically unique aroma. All types of petitgrain contain aroma compounds known as geraniol and linalool that are known to trigger sensitivity in some people, so are listed on perfume packaging. Most of us are unaffected though, able to delight in the fresh, spirited joy of petitgrain's citrus pleasures.
Natural or Synthetic?
Petitgrain essential oil is naturally extracted from the leaves and twigs of the Citrus aurantium tree via steam distillation. This method effectively captures its fresh, green, and slightly woody aroma. The use of natural Petitgrain oil in perfumery is preferred for its distinct character and relative cost-effectiveness, making synthetic versions less common.
Fragrance Families Petitgrain Most Commonly Found In
Show fragrances that contain Petitgrain as a note