Bergamot oil holds a special place in the realms of aromatherapy and natural remedies. Derived from the citrus fruit known as Citrus Bergamia, this aromatic oil boasts a range of health benefits and versatile applications.
The Origins of Bergamot
Bergamot, with its vibrant yellow hue and alluring fresh scent, is believed to be a hybrid of a bitter orange and a sweet lime. Bergamot’s history can be traced back to ancient times, when references to the fruit and its attributes appear in various texts and traditions. Even though some historical accounts suggest that bergamot was first cultivated in Southeast Asia or the Canary Islands, it was southern Italy, particularly the coastal areas of Calabria, that became the epicentre of bergamot cultivation and production. The coastal climate, with its combination of fertile soil, abundant sunshine, and proximity to the Ionian Sea, provides an ideal environment for the growth of these citrus trees.
Calabria is renowned for cultivating the best-quality Bergamot fruits, which serve as the primary source for extracting the essential oil. Cultivated with care and harvested at just the right time, these citrus fruits provide the basis for a high-quality and highly sought-after Bergamot essential oil.
The extraction process
The traditional technique for extracting bergamot oil is the cold press method, also known as expression. This method is generally used for the extraction of essential oils from citrus and ensures that the aromatic essence of the fruit is preserved.
The process begins with picking the ripe bergamot fruits at their peak of maturity. The harvested fruit undergoes meticulous inspection to make sure that only the best-quality ones are selected for the extraction of the essential oil. The selected fruits are then washed and thoroughly cleaned to remove any impurities.
The fragrant and oil-rich bergamot peel is then cold-pressed to release the precious oil.
The collected oil is then separated from any juice or pulp that might have emerged during the pressing process. The result is an exquisite bergamot essential oil with a refreshing, tangy fragrance that captures the very essence of the fruit.
While cold pressing remains the preferred choice for deriving premium-quality essential oils, steam distillation is another way of extracting essential oils that is employed by some producers. This method involves the use of a stem to gently extract the oil from the bergamot.
During steam distillation. The bergamot peels are placed in a distillation chamber, and steam is passed through them. This will vaporise the essential oil, which is then condensed back into liquid form. The oil gets separated from the water and floats on the surface, ready for collection.
Versatile uses
Bergamot essential oil has found a prominent place in the world of aromatherapy due to its numerous healing properties. First of all, this essential oil is a powerhouse when it comes to emotional well-being. Its crisp, citrusy scent has an uplifting and mood-enhancing effect. Bergamot oil is an excellent choice for reducing anxiety and stress. Diffusing bergamot oil in a room can create a calming ambience, promoting emotional balance.
Another amazing benefit of bergamot oil is that it can help with various skin concerns. According to studies, bergamot oil has certain chemical compounds that can possibly help prevent minor skin infections. And just like lavender oil, bergamot oil possesses natural antibacterial and antiseptic properties, which makes it a great addition to facial and body cleansing products.
Bergamot oil is a natural deodoriser. Combining its citrusy aroma with the antibacterial properties of bergamot, this oil is the perfect ingredient for DIY deodorants or homemade cleaning products.
Bergamot oil can also be useful in helping to clear up airways, in a similar way as eucalyptus oil. To help with a congested nose, bergamot oil needed to be diluted with carrier oil, such as coconut or almond oil, and applied to the chest. Its fresh, uplifting aroma will help open up the chest and clear up the airways.
Safety Precautions
While bergamot oil offers a variety of benefits, it is essential to be mindful of potential side effects. Bergamot oil contains compounds that can cause photosensitivity, which can cause pigmentation. So, it is advised to apply bergamot essential oil in the evenings, or don’t get exposed to sunlight or tanning beds straight after applying. Another important thing is to check for potential allergies or medical conditions that might make the use of bergamot essential oil unsuitable. It is always important to consult a health care practitioner before starting to incorporate bergamot oil into your daily routine.