Bergamot is a citrus tree and can be described as a blend of sour orange and lemon. Similarly to other citrus fruit trees Bergamot produces a fruit that looks like a round, green lemon and has the same sour taste, too! However, it has earned the title as the most delicate of the citrus plants, requiring sub-tropcial climate and soil to thrive. Bergamot is most commonly used in teas and essential oils (do not take essential oil internally). The essential oil of bergamot is unique as it can be both uplifting and calming. Use essential oil to help with anxious and sad feelings, tense or spastic muscles, and purifying and cleansing the skin. Bergamot is also popular as a scent used in personal care products, candles, and aromatherapy.
History & Folklore
It is believed that bergamot was first introduced to tea by Native Americans; specifically the Oswego tribe. The tea was an alternate beverage for American Colonists during their boycott of British Tea. Although, it is uncertain exactly when bergamot was added to Earl Grey Tea, it is what gives Earl Grey its distinctive flavor. Italians have used Bergamot oil for years to reduce feelings of stress and to soothe and rejuvenate skin. In Greece, the unripe fruits are used as sweetmeats, eaten by the spoonful as a dessert or with coffee. The oil of bergamot, or the constituents of it, are sometimes added to suntanning oil.
Habitat & Cultivation
Bergamot grows on an evergreen tree towering up to 30 feet. It has pointed oval leaves, scented white flowers, and fruit with an aromatic peel (the source of essential oil). Bergamot is believed to be native to tropical Asia and the Mediterranean. Today, Bergamot is cultivated in sub-tropical regions; especially southern Italy. Planted in fall for harvest in spring.
Uses
Muscle Tension relieves muscle tension and relaxes muscles spasms
Improve Digestion
Reduce Cholesterol Levels Several studies have shown that bergamot may help to reduce overall cholesterol and LDL cholesterol
Lice Treatment and Insect Repellent along with other essential oils, bergamot can help treat lice and other annoying insects like ticks and mosquitoes; Mix the essential oils in with the shampoo for natural lice treatments
Parts used
Essential Oil
Key Actions
Relieve Tension
Aid Digestion
Relax Muscle Spasms
Reduce Cholesterol
Constituents
Volatile Oil
linalyl acetate (30-60%)
limonene (26-42%)
linalool (11-22%)
bergapten
diterpene
References
- Chevallier, Andrew, FNIMH; Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine - 550 Herbs and Remedies for Common Ailments; 3. Edition 2016; ISBN: 978-0-2412-2944-6; Page 191.
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