Kumquat Essential Oil Uses and Benefits
Native to Asia, kumquat is a small, orange-like citrus fruit. The Fortunella japonica tree produces a small fruit that resembles the conventional orange, but is the size of a large olive. Although the essential oil cold pressed from the rind of its fruit is composed primarily of cyclic monoterpene limonene, as the research suggests, Kumquat is quite distinct among citrus oils.
Kumquat has a sweet, uplifting scent and cleansing properties.
What is Kumquat?
The kumquat fruit is often described as a small orange; it is about the size of a large olive and usually grows in clusters. The peel is sweet, the inside is sour, and the whole fruit is edible. The essential oil is cold-pressed from the rind (peel) of the fruit.
Where Does Kumquat Come From?
The kumquat tree is short, almost shrub-like, and evergreen. Similar to other citrus trees, the leaves are dark green, and the flowers are white. Although native to parts of Asia, kumquat trees enjoy the humidity and mild weather of southern Brazil, which has the perfect climate for citrus growing. It is ideal for growing the finest quality citrus fruit, and consequently, the finest quality citrus essential oils.
What is Kumquat Essential Oil Good For?
Like other citrus oils, Kumquat is full of limonene. Limonene is primarily known for its powerful cleansing and purifying qualities. These benefits are versatile as its properties are strong enough to help clean surfaces but gentle enough to be used safely on the skin to promote a healthy-looking and clear complexion. It also offers internal benefits; for example, one study showed that Kumquat oil may offer a boost of antioxidants when taken internally.*
Citrus oils are also incredible for the mood. Diffusing or inhaling from the hands can boost your energy and positive feelings. Additionally, Kumquat has calming properties on the nervous system*
How to use Kumquat
Depending on the harvesting conditions, Kumquat essential oil is anywhere from 70%-95% limonene, but research suggests it has as many as 120 known constituents. So, while Kumquat does offer the same surface cleansing and mood uplifting benefits as its limonene-containing counterparts, many of its properties are all it’s own. One study showed that, along with providing a pleasant citrus taste like many other citrus fruits, Kumquat oil may offer a boost of antioxidants when taken internally. With low levels of monoterpene myrcene, Kumquat may have a calming effect when inhaled.
With powerful cleansing properties, Kumquat may have applications in skin and hair health along with being great for use on your kitchen counters. These added skin benefits may be due to low levels of alpha-Pinene, which is found in higher concentrations in essential oils known for supporting skin health, such as Frankincense and Helichrysum.
Diffuse alone or with other citrus oils like Lime, Bergamot, or Wild Orange for a bright, cheerful aroma.
Add 1–2 drops to your facial cleanser or shampoo for added purifying benefits and a soft, refreshing scent.
Add a few drops to your water or a veggie capsule to support the digestive system.
Try using Kumquat instead of your usual go-to citrus oil for a day. For example, if you make a natural surface cleanser and normally use Lemon, add Kumquat instead.
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