Bitter oranges are the fruits of sour oranges. From its origins in Southeast Asia, through Egypt, Arabia, and Syria, this tree's cultivation and the culinary, aromatic, and medicinal uses of its fruit have conquered Asia and Europe. Various essential oils were produced in the Mediterranean, where the sour orange has been cultivated since the XIII th century. Bitter orange oil is extracted by cold pressing the peel; small grain oil is extracted by distilling the leaves; and neroli oil is extracted by distilling the flowers. Bitter orange essences are used to flavor a variety of beverages and culinary preparations, as well as in the formulation of perfumes. It is used in the pharmaceutical industry to mask the unpleasant taste of certain drugs. Sedative, digestive, antidepressant, and antispasmodic properties are also attributed to these essential oils. These essential oils have enjoyed some popularity in the West in the past, particularly as light sedatives, but they are less popular today, and they are primarily used in the food and perfume industries.