Bergamot
Top noteCitrus bergamia
Fresh, citrusy, and uniquely calming — the oil that is both uplifting and settling at once.
How to use
Applications
🟢 Nutrition & Digestion
- Add 1 drop to Earl Grey tea (the traditional pairing)
- Add to herbal teas and warm beverages
- Use in recipes as a citrus flavoring
- Dilute in water for a refreshing daily drink
🟠Movement & Metabolism
- Diffuse before activity for an uplifting start
- Blend into refreshing body preparations
- Apply diluted to pulse points for motivation
- Combine with Wild Orange for an energizing morning blend
🔵 Rest & Manage Stress
- Diffuse in the evening for calming uplift
- Apply diluted to neck or wrists during anxious moments
- Blend with Lavender for the classic calm combination
- Use to balance heavy or low moods
- Apply diluted to chest for emotional warmth
🔴 Reduce Toxicity
- Replace synthetic bergamot fragrances in home preparations
- Blend into plant-based perfume bases
- Apply diluted to skin — note photosensitivity, avoid sunlight after
- Add to natural skincare formulations
Botanical & Chemical Insight
Family
Rutaceae
Origin
Reggio di Calabria, Italy
Extraction
Cold pressed
Plant part
Peel (rind)
Primary constituents
Limonene contributes to its bright citrus aroma. Linalyl acetate and linalool provide softer calming characteristics — explaining why Bergamot feels both refreshing and settling.
Chemical families
History & Culture
Originally native to tropical Asia, Bergamot became especially prominent in southern Italy and Spain. By the 16th century it held importance in Italian folk practices and later became widely used in perfumery and colognes. In Greece, the immature fruit has traditionally been prepared as a spoon dessert. The oil has long been associated with emotional renewal and optimism.
Bergamot encourages self-acceptance and restoring a positive outlook. Valued for emotional renewal and uplifting the spirit while maintaining calm.
Safety & Responsible Use
Cautions: Possible skin sensitivity. Keep out of reach of children. If you are pregnant, nursing, or under a doctor's care, consult your physician. Avoid contact with eyes, inner ears, and sensitive areas. Avoid sunlight and UV rays for at least 12 hours after applying.