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Bergamot

🌿 Bergamot

Bergamotte
Citrus bergamia Risso & Poit.
Bergamot (Citrus bergamia) is an evergreen citrus plant belonging to the Rutaceae family. It is cultivated mainly in southern Italy, particularly in Calabria. Its yellow-green fruits resemble small oranges and have a highly aromatic peel.

Bergamot essential oil is extracted from the fruit peel. Its main constituents include limonene, linalyl acetate and linalool. The fragrance is widely used in perfumery and aromatherapy. Bergamot is also well known as a flavouring ingredient in Earl Grey tea.

Traditionally, bergamot has been used to promote wellbeing and relaxation. Scientific studies have investigated its potential effects on stress, mood and lipid metabolism.

Notes

The aromatic fruit peel, its essential oil and specialised fruit extracts are the main parts used.

Bergamot essential oil may contain furocoumarins, particularly bergapten. These compounds can significantly increase the skin's sensitivity to sunlight and cause phototoxic reactions following UV exposure. Bergapten-free or FCF bergamot oils are therefore often preferred for cosmetic applications.

Undiluted essential oil may irritate the skin and mucous membranes. Essential oils should not be taken internally without appropriate professional medical guidance.

Bergamot extracts are being investigated for their potential effects on blood lipid levels. They should not replace prescribed medical treatment.

Traditional applications for skin complaints or conditions affecting the female reproductive system should not be interpreted as evidence of established therapeutic efficacy.

Effects

  • refreshing
  • anti-inflammatory
  • relaxing
  • lipid-regulating
  • calming
  • antioxidant

Conditions

  • Vaginitis
  • stress
  • mental stress
  • nervousness
  • elevated cholesterol levels
  • elevated blood lipids
  • Signs of ageing

Application Areas

  • sleep and relaxation
  • nervous system
  • skin
  • lipid metabolism
  • general wellbeing

Plant Parts

  • oil
  • essential oil
  • fruit

Preparations

  • oil
  • essential oil
  • extract

Contraindications

  • breastfeeding
  • pregnancy
  • avoid contact with mucous membranes and the eyes
  • intense UV or sun exposure
  • increased photosensitivity
  • medicines affected by CYP3A4 interaction
  • allergy