The exotic aromatic citrus fruit bergamot or Citrus bergamia is a classic of the so-called fragrant briefcase of every aromatherapy and natural perfume enthusiast. According to folk tales, Christopher Columbus brought it from the Canary Islands and began to cultivate it in Bergamo in Lombardy, Italy, which is one of the hypotheses for the origin of its name. It was traditionally used to flavor Earl Grey tea. Its essential oil is still an unmistakable component of traditional perfumery. Aromatherapist and phytotherapist Aneta Jirchářová will tell you about its effects and impact on our soul.
What is bergamot?
Bergamot is the fruit of the bergamot tree and comes in many different shapes. The most famous is a shape not unlike a shrunken pear with a greenish rind that turns yellow when ripe. We can also find a shape that resembles a smaller orange with a smooth and thick pericarp, or rind.
Origin of bergamot
The exact origin of the bergamot is unknown, but some sources say it was created by crossing a bitter orange and a lime. However, it is not edible, and if you were tempted to make bergamot marmalade, you would end up cooking it for hours and pouring kilograms of sugar into the pot just to make it taste less bitter. That is, assuming you live in southern Italy.
Bergamot essential oil
However, the pericarp contains a precious essential oil, from which essential oil is produced by pressing. It should be noted that pressed bergamot essential oil is strongly photosensitive. This means that after applying it to the skin, you must not expose yourself to direct sunlight. You risk a severe skin reaction, such as painful blisters, which leave dark pigmented irreversible spots. I therefore recommend replacing the essential oil produced by pressing with the distilled.
Hydrosol Bergamot
Who would have thought that its bitter taste improves mood and appetite for work. Could it be that its helpers are responsible for this, bringing positive energy to it? Who knows… But what I know for sure is that the bitter taste of the hydrolate stimulates appetite and digestion. It has an astringent effect, cleanses and brightens. It is therefore suitable for oily skin. The moment my skin touches the fresh bergamot mist, it's like wrapping myself in silk. Do you have trouble falling asleep in the summer, which is caused by the stuffiness and heat? I do! And bergamot hydrolate is a lifesaver. It cools and calms the mind.
So, elves, continue to take care of your bergamot, because you are doing a great job.
Buy 100% hydrolate and distilled essential oil Bergamot here.
Read Anet's previous article about Drmek Common and its secrets.
Pro SoZoLe Rose was written by Aneta Jirchářová, Aromatherapy Kvítek, you can find her website here.
Author: Aneta Jirchářová
A graduate of art school, a professional aromatherapist and phytotherapist specializing in aromatherapy massages, who likes to perceive aromatherapy from the perspective of colors.
“I most often seek inspiration in nature, which I admire and respect for its wisdom. In my drawings, I try to capture the soul and power of the plant.”
