Once upon a time, the bitter orange tree
Did you know? Since there are two types of oranges—sweet ones enjoyed fresh, in juices or in salads, and bitter ones used to make traditional marmalade—there are also two types of trees that produce them. The former grow on the "classic" orange tree we all know so well. The latter come from a slightly larger tree with vibrant evergreen foliage: the bitter orange tree (or Seville orange tree). And it is also from the bitter orange tree that the famous orange blossom comes, a lovely, highly fragrant little white flower with thick, elegantly curved petals. The origins of this tree remain mysterious: according to different sources, it may have originated in China or India. Either way, it thrives in sunny soils and temperate climates, blooming in early spring across our regions. It is said that even in ancient times, orange blossoms symbolised purity, and brides loved adorning their woven crowns with them.
Discover our organic floral blends.
Neroli essence and orange blossom water
While the bitter orange tree is also prized for its bitter oranges, whose zest can also be dried, it is its flowers that we have chosen to spotlight. For it is the flowers that yield both essence and floral water.
To do this, the fresh orange blossoms are steam-distilled. Picture it: the steam passes through the petals before being collected as a liquid. A liquid surprisingly composed of two substances: the essence (oilier, found on the surface) and the floral water (deeper down in the vessel). The former, highly concentrated in aromatic molecules, is commonly known as Neroli essence. This name is said to originate from Anne-Marie de La Trémoille, Princess of Nerola (a town near Rome), who popularised it in the 17th century by wearing it as perfume and adding a few drops to every bath. Neroli essence is rare and precious: it takes a whole tonne of orange blossoms to produce just one litre of essential oil
What are the benefits of orange blossom?
Orange blossom contains many active ingredients and has long been celebrated for its multitude of benefits. Generally speaking, it is believed to have relaxing and antispasmodic properties, helping to ease tension, soothe muscles, and aid both digestion and sleep. Orange blossom is indeed considered a natural remedy to help fight against insomnia.
Its beloved flavour also makes it an essential ingredient in many recipes, especially sweet treats. Orange blossom is used, for instance, to flavour pancakes, madeleines, Mediterranean and Middle Eastern pastries, or fresh fruit salads.
Fancy an orange blossom tea?
At Kusmi, orange blossom features in our organic black tea with bergamot, Anastasia, and in its organic white tea version, White Anastasia. Organic Anastasia is an iconic recipe blending black tea, bergamot, lemon, and orange blossom, promising gentle moments of relaxation and shared pleasure.