This tree is native to South East Asia, but was introduced to Europe, and particularly Italy and is also found in the Ivory Coast, Morocco, Tunisia and Algeria. Bergamot oil is made from a tree that can grow up to four metres high, with star-shaped flowers and smooth leaves, bearing citrus fruit resembling a cross between an orange and a grapefruit, but in a pear-shape. The fruit ripens from green to yellow. The oil is one of the most widely used in the perfumery and toiletry industry and forms, together with neroli and lavender, the main ingredient for the classical 4711 Eau-de-cologne fragrance. It is used to flavour Earl Grey tea. The name is derived from the city Bergamo in Lombardy, Italy, where the oil was first sold.
Botanical Name
citrus bergamia
Fragrance
Citrus, yet fruity and sweet, with a warm spicy floral quality and is reminiscent of neroli as well as lavender oil.
Safety Notes
Bergamot oil can cause burns when used on sensitive skin, which is then exposed to sunlight, as the high content of bergaptene can cause photo-toxicity. It is advisable to keep out of the sun if this oil is used on the skin.
Properties
Analgesic, antidepressant, antiseptic, antibiotic, anti-spasmodic, stomachic, calmative, cicatrisant, deodorant, digestive, febrifuge, vermifuge and vulnerary.
Key Use
Depression, stress, tension, fear, hysteria, infection (all types including skin)
Other Uses
Skin complaints, such as acne, oily skin conditions, eczema and psoriasis and can also be used on cold sores, chicken pox and wounds
Psychologically
Great for creating a more relaxed and happy feeling.
Blends With
Black Pepper, Clary Sage, Cypress, Frankincense, Geranium, Jasmine, Mandarin, Nutmeg, Orange, Rosemary, Sandalwood, Vetiver, Ylang Ylang
