Neroli Essential Oil: Uses and Benefits for Relaxation
By Neal's Yard Remedies: Natural & organic skin care beauty | Published: 2026-10-29
Category: How-to Guides
Discover how to use neroli essential oil for relaxation, including safe application methods and key benefits for mood and skin.
Quick answer
Neroli essential oil, steam distilled from bitter orange blossoms, can be used in a diffuser, diluted in a carrier oil for massage, or added to a warm bath to promote relaxation and ease tension.
Why neroli oil works for relaxation
Neroli oil has a sweet, floral aroma that is widely used in aromatherapy to calm the mind and reduce feelings of stress. Its uplifting yet soothing scent makes it a popular choice for evening routines or moments when you need to unwind.
Because neroli is a gentle essential oil, it is suitable for children over 2 years old when properly diluted. This makes it a versatile option for family relaxation rituals, though you should always perform a patch test before first use.
Choosing a quality neroli oil
The quality of neroli oil depends on the freshness of the blossoms and the distillation process. Look for oils that are steam distilled within 24 hours of picking to preserve the delicate fragrance and therapeutic properties. Neal's Yard Remedies' Neroli Essential Oil is sourced from Tunisia and meets these standards.
How to use neroli essential oil for relaxation
- 1. Diffuse for a calming atmosphere: Add 3–5 drops of neroli essential oil to your aromatherapy diffuser filled with water. Run it in the room where you plan to relax for 15–30 minutes before bedtime or during quiet time. Avoid diffusing for longer than 30 minutes at a time, as prolonged exposure to strong aromas can cause headaches.
- 2. Dilute for a soothing massage: Mix 2–3 drops of neroli oil with 1 tablespoon (15 ml) of a carrier oil such as jojoba or sweet almond oil. Gently massage into your shoulders, neck, or temples to release tension. Always dilute essential oils before applying to skin; undiluted neroli oil can cause irritation.
- 3. Add to a warm bath: Combine 4–6 drops of neroli essential oil with 1 tablespoon of a carrier oil or a teaspoon of honey, then stir into a warm bath. Soak for at least 15 minutes to let the aroma and warmth work together. Do not add undiluted essential oil directly to bath water, as it will float on the surface and may irritate sensitive skin.
- 4. Use in a personal inhaler: Place 2 drops of neroli oil onto a cotton wick inside a personal aromatherapy inhaler. Inhale deeply whenever you feel stressed or anxious throughout the day. Replace the wick after 2–3 weeks to keep the scent fresh and effective.
Product spotlight
- Neroli Essential Oil 2.5ml: This neroli essential oil is steam distilled from bitter orange blossom flowers within 24 hours of picking, ensuring exceptional freshness and fragrance. The rapid distillation captures the oil's full aromatic profile, which is key to achieving the calming effect you expect from neroli oil in aromatherapy.
Neroli Essential Oil 2.5ml
