Essential Oil Spotlight: Bergamot

Bergamot (citrus bergamia) essential oil is pressed from the rind, or peel, of this citrus fruit. The oil is clearly recognized by its sweet, lively, citrusy, and fruity aroma. Bergamot properties: analgesic, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antiparasitic, antiseptic, antispasmodic, digestive, neuroprotective, sedative, and uplifting.

Bergamot essential oil is commonly used to help with agitation, brain injury, colic, depression, emotional stress, environmental stress, infection, mental stress, performance stress, physical energy, physical stress, PMS, and rheumatoid arthritis. This essential oil primarily affects the digestive system, emotional balance, and skin.

Other possible uses of bergamot include acne, anxiety, appetite regulation, boils, bronchitis, carbuncles, cold sores, oily complexion, coughs, cystitis, digestion, eczema, emotions, endocrine system, fever, gallstones, gonorrhea, infectious disease, insect bites, irritated lungs, psoriasis, respiratory infection, scabies, sore throat, nervous tension, thrush, acute tonsillitis, ulcers, urinary tract infection, spot varicose veins, and wounds.

Application and Safety Data

Topical: Bergamot can be applied neat (without dilution). Apply to forehead, temples, reflex points, and/or directly on the area of concern. May also be applied as a deodorant.
Aromatic: Diffuse, or inhale the aroma directly. The scent may help to relieve anxiety, depression, stress, and tension. It is also uplifting and refreshing.
Internal: Bergamot is recognized as safe for human consumption by the FDA. Dilute 1 drop bergamot oil in 1 tsp. of honey or in 4 oz. of beverage.
Safety: Avoid direct sunlight or UV light for 72 hours after topical use. Repeated use may result in extreme contact sensitization.

Ways to Use

1. Diffuser Blends
Bergamot essential oil is a huge hit in diffuser blends not only for its powerful aromatic properties but also because it simply smells wonderful! We have created many amazing diffuser blends with bergamot for you to try. Just click on one below that looks appealing, and start diffusing bergamot today.

2. Comas
Bergamot can be helpful to support a comatose patient. Alternate applying 1 drop frankincense and 1 drop bergamot to the back of the neck, just below the skull, once a day.
3. Perfumes
Essential oil blends can make beautiful perfumes. We’ve written a post featuring 15 perfume recipes and their health benefits—including several blends containing bergamot. A downloadable file with printable labels is included. Click here to make fabulous fragrances for both women and men.

4. Smoothies
To add healthful flavor to your fruit or green smoothies, include 1–2 drops of bergamot essential oil. You’ll love the citrus burst and the support for your digestive system.
5. Bath Bombs
Making your own bath bombs means completely customized creations! And you can feel secure knowing that you’re not soaking in any harmful chemicals. Follow this recipe to make simple, luxurious bath bombs! For a stress-relieving and emotionally relaxing bath, add 10 drops bergamot, 10 drops orange, and 3 drops copaiba to the basic bath bomb recipe.

Source:
Modern Essentials^®: The Complete Guide to the Therapeutic Use of Essential Oils, 9th Edition, pp. 40-41.