Bergamot essential oil is obtained through cold pressing of a precious plant – the Citrus bergamia – belonging to the Rutaceae family, that is, a strong citrus fruit and bitter known for its soothing and antiseptic properties.
According to some legends, bergamot has ancient origins in the Canary Islands, although others legends fix its origin in the city of Berga, also in Spain, and others in Italy, in Reggio Calabria. It is true that these places are presented as perfect habitats that make possible the better fruiting of this citrus fruit, also cultivated in other parts of the world such as Argentina and Brazil. Bergamot essential oil has healthy effects on the human organism and does not only! Bergamot essential oil has multiple beneficial properties. The best known is, however doubt, its antiseptic property. Due to its antidepressant and calming properties it is also It is very common to use this oil in situations of anxiety, fear and depression. Of In fact, it is a good mood stimulant that helps restore tranquility, serenity and optimism, plays a relaxing action and contrasts anxiety states. Bergamot essential oil is energizing and revitalizing, it contains numerous vitamins such as vitamin C, B1 and B2 that improve iron absorption and brighten the skin. Its antioxidant properties are well known, due to the presence of flavonoids that increase the activity of enzymes with antioxidant action, limit the production of radicals free in the walls of blood vessels and counteract inflammatory mechanisms. Another of the scientifically documented healthy properties is its anti-cholesterol effect, since that the flavonoids it contains help block cholesterol synthesis enzymes. Besides, Bergamot has been shown to help reduce “bad” cholesterol levels, and increase the levels of “good.” Bergamot essential oil can be used in multiple ways and areas, from the kitchen to the salon, on the skin and in the hair:
- In the kitchen: a few drops of bergamot essential oil can enrich salads and enhance the flavor of white meat, fish and fresh cheeses but also flavor infusions and be used in the preparation of cocktails.
- On the skin: its strong antibacterial and disinfectant action makes this product used also on the skin, especially in case of abscesses and acne and, therefore, to purify the oiliest skin. To benefit from the sebum-regulating and relaxing action of this oil It is possible to add it to the day or night cream, while, for an astringent effect can be added to tonic. It is very common to use it for body messages.
- On the hair: bergamot essential oil can be applied to the leather for an action anti-hair loss or added to shampoo or hair masks for a purifying action.
- About mood: commonly used in aromatherapy to combat feelings of sadness, anxiety, stress and states of depression, as it helps provide a happier mood. In fact, it is advisable to use a few drops of essential oil of bergamot in the room diffusers to purify the environment and release its aroma or add a few drops of essential oil to bath salts and benefit from the properties relaxing, revitalizing and aromatic of bergamot. However, bergamot essential oil has contraindications as it is a photosensitive product. It is therefore recommended not to immediately expose yourself to the sun – or least not earlier than 12 hours – after applying the oil to the skin, as it may cause irritation and burns. It is also important to pay attention to the expiration date of the product and store it in a cool, dark place.