When Life Gives You Lemons (and Oranges), Turn Them Into Oil
Citrus oils are among the most versatile and in-demand essential oils in the global market. Whether you’re walking through the cleaning aisle, shopping for skincare, or exploring industrial degreasers, chances are you’re encountering the power of orange oil and lemon oil. These oils, derived from the rinds and peels of citrus fruits, are packed with natural compounds that make them effective, fragrant, and environmentally friendly alternatives to synthetic chemicals.
In this blog, we’ll explore the differences between various types of citrus oils – including orange peel oil, lemon citrus oil, and orange essence oil – and explore their growing use across industries.
What Is Orange Oil?
Orange oil is extracted primarily from the rinds of sweet oranges (Citrus sinensis), often as a byproduct of the juice manufacturing process. Known for its fresh, sweet aroma, orange oil contains high concentrations of d-Limonene, a powerful solvent with natural cleaning and degreasing properties.
But orange oil is more than just a pretty scent. It’s used in:
- Cleaning Products: A natural, biodegradable solvent used in degreasers, industrial cleaners, and even paint strippers.
- Food and Beverage Flavoring: In its food-grade form, it’s a flavor enhancer or fragrance agent.
- Personal Care Products: Often found in lotions, body washes, and natural deodorants for its uplifting scent and potential antimicrobial properties.
- Agriculture and Pest Control: As a natural pesticide, orange oil has shown effectiveness in organic farming applications.
What Is Orange Peel Oil?
While often used interchangeably with orange oil, orange peel oil refers explicitly to the essential oil cold-pressed or steam-distilled directly from the peels. It typically has a higher concentration of d-Limonene and is prized for its purity in cleaning and aromatherapy applications.
This oil is ideal for manufacturers who avoid synthetic additives and incorporate all-natural, citrus-based ingredients into their formulations. At Interstate Commodities Corp., our long-standing partnerships with citrus processors in Florida and Brazil allow us to provide a consistent, high-purity supply of orange peel oil year-round.
The Appeal of Orange Essence Oil
Orange essence oil is a more specialized product, extracted during the initial phases of juice concentration. It captures the fruit’s aroma and flavor more delicately than standard orange oil, making it especially prized in the food and beverage industry.
With its bright, volatile fragrance profile, orange essence oil is commonly used in:
- Flavorings for soft drinks, teas, and baked goods
- Fragrance components in perfumes and air fresheners
- High-end cosmetic formulations
Its limited production window makes year-round sourcing a challenge for some – but not for us. With our citrus warehousing capabilities in Spartanburg, SC, and Ocoee, FL, we can deliver a consistent supply of orange essence oil to clients across North America.
Why Lemon Oil Is Just as Essential
If orange oil is the workhorse of citrus oils, lemon oil is its sharp, zesty counterpart. Derived from the rinds of lemons (Citrus limon), lemon oil boasts antimicrobial properties and astringent qualities that make it highly sought after.
Like orange oil, lemon oil is available in both food-grade and industrial formulations and is widely used in:
- Cleaning Products: As a natural degreaser and antibacterial agent
- Cosmetics: Brightening skin and adding fresh scent to cleansers and toners
- Food and Beverages: Providing citrus flavoring to candies, teas, and other consumables
- Aromatherapy: For mood elevation, stress relief, and air purification
The Rise of Lemon Citrus Oil in Formulations
When we talk about lemon citrus oil, we’re generally referring to a broader category that may include both cold-pressed essential oil and terpenes distilled from the lemon rind. This oil combines aromatic appeal with functional uses, especially in green cleaning products and plant-based industrial applications.
As manufacturers shift toward more sustainable ingredients, lemon citrus oil has emerged as a top choice thanks to its natural origin, effectiveness, and biodegradability.
Choosing the Right Citrus Oil for Your Application
While all citrus oils share a common origin, their applications and chemical compositions can vary widely:
| Oil Type | Best For | Notable Properties |
| Orange Oil | Cleaning, flavoring, cosmetics | High in d-Limonene, sweet aroma |
| Orange Peel Oil | Industrial cleaning, natural solvents | Potent and pure citrus solvent |
| Orange Essence Oil | Flavorings, perfumes, high-end cosmetics | Light, aromatic, delicate citrus profile |
| Lemon Oil | Cleaning, skincare, aromatherapy | Antimicrobial, zesty fragrance |
| Lemon Citrus Oil | Green cleaners, food-grade applications | Versatile, sharp aroma, eco-friendly |
At Interstate Commodities Corp., we help our partners choose the right oil – whether they need consistent bulk delivery, food-grade certification, or high-purity formulations for industrial use.
Final Thoughts: A Squeeze of Sustainability
Citrus oils are a perfect example of how nature and industry can align. From the peels of fruit that might otherwise go to waste, we get powerful oils that clean, enhance, and invigorate.
Interstate Commodities Corp. has been a trusted supplier of citrus oils and distillates for nearly four decades. With strategically located warehouses, long-standing processor partnerships, and a commitment to quality, we make it easy for manufacturers to integrate sustainable citrus solutions into their products.
Looking for bulk orange or lemon oil for your manufacturing process?
Contact Us to request a quote or discuss your citrus oil needs.