As we dive into the enchanting world of aromatherapy, we often encounter essential oils that are popular and widely used, like Lavender and Eucalyptus. Today, however, let’s turn our attention to a less heralded but equally fascinating member of the essential oil family: Bergamot. Known for its refreshingly uplifting citrus aroma, Bergamot oil, derived from the peel of the Bergamot orange (Citrus bergamia), offers a bouquet of benefits that can invigorate the mind and soothe the soul.

A Citrusy Journey Through Bergamot’s Essence

Just like my delightful encounters with Sweet Fern, deepening my relationship with Bergamot continues to be an aromatic adventure. Its historic journey from a humble citrus fruit to a cherished oil is a tale of transformation. Though the name “Bergamot” is thought to originate from the Bergamo region of Italy, this notable tree of the Citrus (Rutaceae) family was only known to grow on the coastal Calabrian strip of Italy and is a double-hybrid of sorts: a cross breeding (on grafted stock) of Bitter Orange (Citrus aurantium var. amara, which is a hybrid) and Lime (Citrus limetta). Regardless of nomenclature origin, this citrus wonder has graced the world with its presence, not just in aromatherapy but also as a flavoring in Earl Grey tea and remains a notable component of the perfumer’s palette.

Bergamot’s Multifaceted Benefits: A Symphony of Aromatic Wellness

Bergamot oil, with its unique fusion of sweet and spicy notes, is more than just a pleasing scent. It’s a powerhouse of therapeutic properties. Here are just a few to note:

• Mental Clarity and Emotional Balance: Known to calm and uplift the spirit and alleviate stress, Bergamot oil is a perfect companion for those days when your mind feels clouded. Its ability to balance emotions is both soothing and rejuvenating.
• Skincare Marvel*: With antiseptic properties, Bergamot oil is a valuable ally in skincare. It can assist in reducing acne and skin irritations, promoting a healthy, glowing complexion. (*See important safety note below regarding photosensitization; opt for bergapten free Bergamot oil for topical applications*!)
• Pain Alleviation*: Thanks to its analgesic qualities, Bergamot oil may help reduce muscle pain and tension. A massage with diluted bergamot oil may be a soothing balm for sore muscles. (*Learn more about the importance of diluting essential oils for topical application; see the below safety notes about photosensitization; opt for bergapten free Bergamot oil for topical applications.)

Bergamot Oil Safety Notes

Bergamot oil, especially cold pressed, may be photosensitizing. This means that the oil, when applied topically at concentrations over a certain threshold, may cause burning if exposed to UV light. However, this may vary by individual depending on skin type (e.g., amount of melanin in an individual’s skin) and length of UV exposure. The IFRA guideline for cold pressed/expressed Bergamot oil is 0.4% of an overall topical formula. When in doubt opt for “Bergapten free” (aka furanocoumarin free) Bergamot oil for topical applications (e.g., salves, creams, oils) or turn to a different citrus altogether such as Yuzu or Mandarin.

However, when it comes down to it, cold pressed Bergamot oil offers greater therapeutic value than its distilled counterpart for emotional and mental support. If you must have Bergamot in a topical formula, I suggest working within IFRA’s guidelines or choosing bergapten free Bergamot; though you’ll lose some of its olfactive chemical magic through the distillation process that removes bergapten and other heavier molecules.

Are you seeking nuance about the citrus oils and phototoxicity? Find more information about the citrus oil family in my Yuzu Plant Talk video.

Chemical Symphony: The Terpenes of Bergamot Oil

The magic of Bergamot oil lies in its chemical composition, rich in terpenes such as limonene, linalyl acetate, and linalool. These compounds are known for their anti-inflammatory, sedative, and analgesic properties, creating a synergy of health benefits.

Bergamot Oil in Aromatherapy: A Breath of Fresh Air

Inhaling Bergamot oil can be a revitalizing experience. Its citrusy scent refreshes the mind, awakening the senses while simultaneously bringing a sense of calm. Cold pressed (expressed) Bergamot oil is a marriage of yin and yang that helps promote neutrality and release clinging to “should” and “could”, allowing space for the here and now.

Bergamot’s aromatic chemistry is a symphony of fresh, sweet fruit partnered with fresh, bright sharpness supported by a bridge of a zesty spice, similar to balancing acidity in cooking with Black Pepper’s zest. Bergamot is ZING! Clear-ringing like a small but precise bell with the ability to dissipate stagnation and clutter-chatter. It is cooling on both mind and body, not as cold and reserved as Yuzu but still cooling. After the rather quick dry-down the sharpness fades and Bergamot’s sweet-floral coolness similar to Lime shines through.

This truly is a balancing oil for promoting mental acuity and tempering emotional chatter and relaxing expectations. It’s like Bergamot takes your hand, looks you in the eye and says, “Hey, let’s stop for a second to pause and look at the sky.” Just breath, with no expectations. ZING!

Creative Aromatherapy Blends with Bergamot Oil

Bergamot oil can be a versatile component in various aromatherapy blends. Here are a few for you to try:

Stress-Relief Diffuser Blend:

This blend creates a serene environment, perfect for relaxation and stress relief. Learn how to safely diffuse essential oils in this short-form class.

• 5 drops of Bergamot (Citrus bergamia) essential oil
• 3 drops of Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) essential oil
• 2 drops of Frankincense (Boswellia carterii) essential oil

Uplifting Spritzer:

Invite holistic uplifting, balancing clarity to your days and nights with this refreshing spritzer. Deepen your aromatherapy know-how in this depth, hands-on class on aromatherapy spritzers.

*Safety note: this formula falls within IFRA guidelines for topical products of Bergamot (with bergapten) with 0.4% being the recommended maximum amount of a formula.

• 2 oz distilled water or hydrosol such as Rose or Neroli
• 12-15 drops of Bergamot (Citrus bergamia) essential oil
• 13 drops of Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) essential oil
• 8 drops of Ylang ylang (Cananga odorata) essential oil

Invigorating Massage Oil:

This massage oil blend (3% dilution) can rejuvenate the senses and relieve muscle tension, offering a refreshing and revitalizing experience.

• 1 oz of carrier oil (such as Sweet Almond oil or Sunflower oil)
• 8 drops of Bergapten free Bergamot (Citrus bergamia) essential oil
• 6 drops of Rosemary (Salvia rosmarinus) essential oil
• 4 drops of Peppermint (Mentha x piperita) essential oil

Embrace the Citrus Splendor

Bergamot oil is a hidden gem in the world of essential oils. With its multifaceted benefits and refreshing, uplifting aromatic molecules, it’s a must-have for enthusiasts and practitioners alike. Let Bergamot oil be a reminder of the beauty and healing power of nature, enriching and fulfilling your aromatic journey. Just remember it’s photosensitizing properties; when in doubt, enjoy its olfactory benefits via inhalation rather than topical application. Happy blending!