The Bergamot Orange (Citrus bergamia) stands out as a citrus fruit, typically resembling the size of an orange, with hues ranging from yellow to green based on its ripeness. Extensive research suggests it is a hybrid of lemon or bitter orange. The term bergamot traces its etymological roots to the Italian word ‘bergamotto,’ ultimately derived from the Turkish 'bey amudu' or 'bey amut,' translating to Prince’s pear or Prince of pears. This small tree blooms during the winter, and its fruit exhibits a less sour and more bitter taste.
Bergamot oil carries a scent akin to light orange peel oil with floral undertones. Production is primarily concentrated along the coast of the province of Reggio di Calabria in Italy, owing to the favorable climate. The tree is also cultivated in Argentina, Brazil, Turkey, and Southeast Asia, tracing back to its historical roots. The edible fruit sees its juice or oil extracted from the outer skin, utilized for flavoring teas and confectionery. Notably, bergamot finds widespread use in perfumery, aromatherapy, and skincare creams.
Historically, bergamot oil extraction involved a slow-folding technique known as ‘sfumatura.’ Today, modern methods utilize machines called ‘peelers,’ which scrape the outer skin under running water to create an emulsion. The resulting clear liquid, sometimes green or greenish-yellow, consists mainly of volatile fractions with a minute residual fraction. Due to its limited production, bergamot oil is susceptible to adulteration. To uphold its quality, the Italian government has implemented stringent controls, including testing and providing purity certificates, safeguarding the oil's reputation.
# Treat depression and anxietyThe oil is rich in limonene and alpha pinene and can be used to treat depression, increasing blood circulation in the body and stimulate energy. It stimulates the secretion of hormones and restores hormonal balance.
# Improves DigestionIt stimulates the secretion of enzymes, bile and digestive acids thus improving the process of digestion and combat issues such as constipation.
# Antibiotic Properties
Some components in the oil have antibiotic properties. It is used in special skin care soaps and can be added to bath water or shampoo to protect the skin and the scalp from infections.
# Reduces Body PainThe oil reduces body pain from minor headaches to muscle sprains by reducing sensitivity of the nerves to the pain.
# Soothes the nervesThe oil is great for soothing the nerves. It alleviates signs of tension, stress from the body by stimulating the secretion of dopamine and serotonin.
# Great for the Skin
The bergamot oil is extensively used in skin care products like creams, lotions etc. It also helps to lighten marks and scars on the body such as acne, pimple marks, stretch marks etc.