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Bergamot (Citrus bergamia syn. C. aurantium var. bergamia)

Botanical Information

  • Family: Rutaceae
  • Common Names: Bergamot Orange, Bergamot
  • Parts Used: Fruit peel, essential oil

Description

Citrus bergamia is a small citrus tree primarily cultivated in southern Italy. Its aromatic fruit is known for its essential oil, which is widely used in perfumery, aromatherapy, and herbal medicine. Bergamot has long been valued for its mood-enhancing, digestive, and antimicrobial properties.

Historical and Traditional Uses

  • Used in traditional Italian and Mediterranean medicine for digestive and skin health.
  • Employed in aromatherapy for its uplifting effects on mood and stress reduction.
  • Infused in teas, most famously in Earl Grey tea, for its aromatic and digestive benefits.

Constituents

  • Essential oils (limonene, linalool, bergapten)
  • Flavonoids
  • Polyphenols
  • Coumarins

Actions

  • Antidepressant
  • Digestive stimulant
  • Carminative
  • Antimicrobial
  • Nervine
  • Antiseptic

Medicinal Uses

1. Mood and Nervous System Support:
Bergamot essential oil is used in aromatherapy to uplift mood, reduce anxiety, and ease stress.

2. Digestive Health:
Traditionally used to relieve bloating, indigestion, and stimulate appetite.

3. Skin and Wound Healing:
Has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, often used for acne, eczema, and skin infections.

4. Antimicrobial and Immune Support:
Contains compounds that combat bacterial and fungal infections.

5. Cardiovascular Health:
Bergamot polyphenols have been studied for their role in supporting healthy cholesterol levels.

Preparation and Dosage

Infusion (Tea):

  • 1 tsp of dried peel per cup of boiling water. Steep for 5-10 minutes and drink up to 2 times daily.

Tincture:

  • 2-5 ml of tincture taken up to 3 times daily.

Essential Oil (Aromatic Use):

  • Used in diffusers for relaxation and stress relief.

Topical Application:

  • Diluted essential oil applied to the skin for acne or minor wounds.

Precautions and Contraindications

  • Photosensitivity: Contains bergapten, which can increase sensitivity to sunlight; avoid direct sun exposure after application.
  • Pregnancy and Lactation: Use with caution; consult a healthcare provider before use.
  • Skin Sensitivity: Essential oil should always be diluted before topical application.

Energetics (Traditional Medicine Perspectives)

  • Traditional European Herbalism: Cooling and uplifting; supports digestion and emotional well-being.
  • Ayurveda: Balancing for Pitta and Kapha, but may aggravate Vata in excess.

Combinations

  • For Mood Support: Combine with lavender and lemon balm.
  • For Digestion: Combine with ginger and fennel.
  • For Skin Health: Combine with tea tree and calendula.

Harvesting and Storage

  • Harvesting: Peels are collected from ripe fruit and used fresh or dried.
  • Storage: Store dried peels and essential oil in airtight containers away from heat and light.

Modern Research

Studies confirm Citrus bergamia’s benefits for mood enhancement, digestion, and antimicrobial activity, reinforcing its traditional medicinal uses.

Bergamot remains a valuable plant in traditional and modern medicine, particularly for emotional well-being, digestive health, and skin care.