Bergamot Oil

Bergamot is named after the city of Bergomont in Lombardy, Italy, where the fruit was first cultivated, in the 18th century. It is also grown commercially o­n the Ivory Coast. The essential is cold pressed from the peel of the nearly ripened fruit.

A small tree with smooth oval leaves and small round fruit. Bergamot is grown exclusively for the essential oil within its peel as the whole plant emits a strong citrus-like odor, but most like that of the tropical tree, orange bergamot. The scent is suitable for use in potpourris and other scented mixtures. The blossoms are used as a flavoring for the well-known Earl Grey tea. The flowers are also edible.

Bergamot essential oil has a lot of beneficial properties such as analgesic, anathematic, antidepressant, antiseptic, antispasmodic, antitoxic, carminative, digestive, diuretic, deodorant, febrifuge, laxative, parasiticide, rubefacient stimulant, stomachic, tonic, vermifuge, vulnerary.

Historically, Bergamot Oil has many uses some of which are acne, boils, cold sores, insect bites, insect repellent, greasy complexion, soar throat, mouth infections, loss of appetite, flatulence, colds, fever, flu, anxiety, depression, and stress-related conditions. An infusion is good for colds, coughs, nausea, and sore throats.

Bergamot Oil blends well with –Sandalwood, Ylang Ylang, Jasmine, Cedarwood, Clary Sage, Frankincense, Geranium Egyptian, Lavender, Lemon, Neroli, Orange, and Petitgrain. Bergamot Oil contains Bergapten, which is phototoxic, do not use it o­n the skin before exposure to sunlight.