Bergamot (Citrus bergamia)
“Sunshine in a bottle”, as many Aromatherapists can relate when we refer to Bergamot. Just a drop or two can elevate the mood and bring smiles almost instantly. The oil of Bergamot we carry at Barefut is extracted through cold pressing the peel of the Bergamot fruit and is grown in the Ivory Coast. It is named after the Italian city of Bergamo in Lombardy, where the oil was originally sold.
Bergamot Essential Oil is a balancing oil that can be used to lift the spirit in times of depression, melancholy, stress or tension; while also calming anxiety, nervousness, stress and fear. It is considered in Aromatherapy as a relaxant and sedative.* As a matter of fact, it is one of the most studied essential oils for helping with anxiety and its effects can be enhanced with other essential oils. (1,2,3)
It gives a feeling of freshness, joy and energy in cases of sadness and depression caused by fatigue and unreleased tensions and frustrations. Bergamot helps us to “relax and let go” especially when we have pent up feelings. It reminds us that life is good by promoting optimism, and lifting off our shoulders physical and emotional tension.
It also stimulates hormone secretion and thus helps maintain proper rates of metabolism.
Interesting facts: Bergamot is a hybrid of the bitter orange and lemon. It was and still is a primary ingredient in one of the first ‘eau de cologne’ formulas, and continues to this day to be found in a number of ‘high end’ perfumes and colognes. Earl Grey Tea is lightly flavored by a hint of Bergamot.
Feeling stressed? Take the time to inhale the sweet, exotic citrus aroma of Bergamot. Here are more ways you can use it…
Bergamot Blends well with:
Lavender, Basil, Clary Sage, Cedar wood, Cypress, Frankincense, Geranium, Peppermint, Nutmeg, Rosemary, Sandalwood, Ho Wood and all citrus oils such as orange and tangerine.
Bergamot is found in the following Eternity Blends: Happiness, Anxiety, Clear Mind, Confidence, and Stress Relief.
“Rays of Sunshine”- Make this synergy by adding the following in a 1oz Amber Dropper Bottle:
2 tsp Bergamot
1 tsp Sweet Orange, Tangerine, Clementine or Blood Orange (your choice)
½ tsp Geranium
How to use this Synergy:
- Add a few drops to your diffuser to brighten up the room.
- Make a room spray: Add up to 80 drops of the synergy first to a 4oz aluminum bottle with atomizer. Add witch hazel. Mix. Then add purified water.
- Make a massage oil to lift away stress and tension. Mix 10-12 drops + 1oz carrier oil in an amber glass bottle.
- Add a drop or 2 to a tissue and inhale when in need of a quick “pick me up”.
** Caution: Citrus essential oils and the sun do not get along. Do not use photosensitizing essential oils prior to going into a sun tanning booth or the sun. Read More on Essential Oils 101
*Aromatherapy is a Complimentary Alternative Medicine (CAM) and is not used by any form to replace medical care if necessary. Do not use essential oils internally or undiluted on the skin. Always test a small amount of the essential oil first for sensitivity or allergic reaction. The FDA has not evaluated the statements on this website. No claims are made as to any medicinal value of this oil or any products from Barefūt. The information presented here is for educational purposes of traditional uses and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. You are responsible for understanding the safe application of these products. If you have any questions, please call or email us for further information.
Essential oil education is an important piece of working with them. Using them properly is important. The more one understands about essential oil use the better. Nice blog on the use of Bergamot.
Thank you Bruce!