The Bergamot tree is a perennial plant that belongs to the citrus family. The name bergamot comes from the name of the place where it was initially sold. It produces pear-shaped orange-like fruits called bergamot. Bergamot trees are also grown as ornamentals to lure bees, hummingbirds, and butterflies in the backyards. Bergamot essential oil is extracted from the rinds of the ripe or raw bergamot by the cold-press method. It is light yellowish-green oil with a citrus fruity aroma. It contains limonene, linalool, and linalyl acetate compounds to a great extent. Many clinical studies on aromatherapy with bergamot oil have revealed promising results in conditions of anxiety, depression, stress, pain relief, blood pressure, and heart rate reduction.
In earlier times, bergamot oil was used in Turkish cuisine as a vital ingredient. It was also used as a fragrance in colognes in France. The Italian people used the oil for treating fever and for aromatherapy. It was also added as a flavour in green tea. In present times, bergamot oil is used to add flavour to the puddings and gelatins. It is added to personal care product formulations to bring citrus aroma. The major personal care products in which bergamot essential oil is used are lotions, soaps, handwashes, shower gels, creams, air fresheners, and perfumes. It is still a preferred blend for aromatherapy to rejuvenate the mind and body. Apart from that, it is put in a diffuser to spread the fragrance in the surroundings.
While processing peels of bergamot for extracting oil, bergamot hydrosol is also produced as a by-product. Bergamot hydrosol is floral water with a flavour of bergamot that is less intense than bergamot oil. It works best as a skin toner. It is added to citrus beverages as a natural flavour.
Bergamot oil exhibits antiseptic, febrifuge, antibiotic, deodorant, sedative, antimicrobial, antispasmodic, disinfectant, and digestive properties. It helps treat acne, warts, blemishes, spots, etc. It delays signs of aging, evens skin tone, and cleanses pores. Bergamot essential oil works well with aloe vera oil for skin disorders. It removes hair infection & dandruff and gives shine to the hair. Some users prefer organic bergamot essential oil for spa and aromatherapy. The studies show that bergamot oil helps reduce inflammation, uplift mood, and lower cholesterol levels. It complements the aromas of rosemary, sandalwood, vetiver, jasmine, myrrh, marjoram, and other essential oils.
Bergamot oil can cause photosensitivity leading to redness, irritation, burns, or spots. Bergamot oil manufacturers recommend avoiding sun exposure after application of the oil. They also suggest diluting the oil with carrier oils such as coconut, jojoba, argan, aloe vera, and others before its topical application.
