When it comes to essential oils, bergamot is one of the best resources to use to improve your mood, treat skin problems, and improve mental health. Bergamot essential oil with its citrus, floral scent is produced by cold pressing the peel of the bergamot fruit. It can be used in food and drink, and can even do a relaxing massage. Read on to find out more about all of the bergamot’s benefits.
Where does bergamot essential oil come from?
The essential oil of bergamot is obtained from bergamot orange (citrus bergamia). This tropical citrus is native to the Mediterranean but is grown in similar climates around the world. The bergamot orange is the size of a baseball, but its skin is green to slightly yellow.
What Are The Benefits Of Bergamot Essential Oil?
Although limited, research suggests that bergamot essential oil may offer a number of health benefits.
Other inflammatory skin conditions, such as psoriasis, were also relieved with regular use of bergamot essential oil.
Relief from symptoms of dementia
For people with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia, bergamot essential oil can relieve anxiety, the most common and often the most troubling symptom. This relief comes without the sedative effects common in other dementia medications.
Finally, there is evidence that bergamot essential oil plays a key role in reducing stress. When used as aromatherapy for anxiety, bergamot essential oil lowers diastolic and systolic blood pressure – important markers of stress.
Does bergamot essential oil have any side effects?
Bergamot essential oil can cause potential side effects, especially in people with a sensitivity to citrus fruits like grapefruit.
Bergamot contains the highest concentration of bergapten, a chemical compound made by the Rutaceae citrus family, of any essential oil. If undiluted Bergapten is used directly on the skin, contact dermatitis can develop – a rash that can range from slight redness to blisters.
Another possible topical side effect is photodermatitis. Bergapten increases the sensitivity to sunlight. So, if you use bergamot essential oil and then go outside, it can lead to a painful red and blistered rash.
When taken orally, bergamot essential oil can lower blood sugar. There are other possible drug interactions, including interactions with antibiotics and antidepressants. If you are on any medication, speak to your doctor before taking bergamot essential oil internally.
As always, whenever you make changes to your health routines and add essential oils, speak to your doctor about possible risks or side effects.
How to use bergamot essential oil
Bergamot essential oil can be used in three ways: internally, topically, and as an aromatherapy.
How to take bergamot essential oil internally
The essential oil of bergamot gives Earl Gray tea its characteristic citrus and floral notes. Loose tea can make your cup of tea weaker or stronger than a traditional tea bag.
A few drops of bergamot essential oil in water is a refreshing way to start the day. Do you want to relax? Be a creative mixologist! Pair lemonade with bergamot essential oil and a dash of vodka for a relaxing cocktail.
If you’re a baker or cook, a few drops of bergamot essential oil add a refreshing, sour punch to baked goods, salad dressings, sauces, marinades and soups.
How to use bergamot essential oil topically
To avoid side effects, always mix your bergamot essential oil with a neutral carrier oil. Do a patch test by putting a drop of the mixture on the inside of your elbow, gently rubbing it, and waiting for a reaction. If there is no reaction, it is safe to apply bergamot essential oil topically.
In the shower, use a bergamot body wash or bar of soap for overall skin health. For portable skin-based aromatherapy on the go, try a bergamot oil rollerball. Apply to your pulse points – wrists, neck, and elbows – for relief.
Aromatherapy with bergamot essential oil
The Easiest Way To Have An Aromatherapy Time With Bergamot Essential Oil? By candlelight. Set the mood and relax with a bergamot candle.
Reed diffusers are an option when candles don’t. Essential oil is placed in a vessel and thin reeds stand with their ends in this oil. The reeds absorb the oil and gradually release the fragrance into the air. This provides long lasting aromatherapy that is good in a small space.
Nebulization and ultrasonic diffusers are another option for aromatherapy, as are incense and room sprays.
Best therapeutics for bergamot essential oils
Twinings of London Earl Gray Loose Tea Caddies: available at Amazon
This tea, with its signature bergamot notes, carries the legend of the second Earl Gray who asked Richard Twining to create a blend that mimics a blend shared by an envoy returning from China.
Best bergamot essential oil
Zongle USDA Certified Organic Bergamot Essential Oil: available at Amazon
This therapeutic, food-grade bergamot essential oil is easy to mix with a carrier oil for topical treatment, but is also safe for internal use.
Best candle made from bergamot essential oil
AromaWorks Lemongrass and Bergamot: available at Macy’s and Amazon
This long lasting soy candle delivers a fresh citrus scent with sweet grass notes. No additional chemical fragrances – just 100% pure essential oil.
AromaWorks makes natural reed diffusers that are made from 100% essential oils – with no synthetic fragrances or additives.
Everyday essential oil alchemy atomizer: available from Amazon
Atomizing diffusers send bergamot essential oil into the air without heat or water. This oil diffuser delivers pure bergamot essential oil that is intact for optimal aromatherapy.
Ultrasonic diffusers provide both soothing aromatherapy and a moisturizing mist – they’re refreshing and also great for dry climates.
Suzannah Kolbeck is an author for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a unique mission: to help you simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money.
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