Bergamot essential oil

Bergamot is a tree that grows up to 10 metres tall, originating in Morocco but mainly cultivated in Italy. It was named after the town of Bergamo in Lombardy. The oil is obtained by steam distillation of the rind (peel) of bergamot fruit. Bergamot is a citrus fruit the size of an orange, with a yellow colour like a lemon. Its scent is sweet, fruity, fresh and citrusy, with a light floral note. Its botanical origin is not entirely clear; it is considered a hybrid of bitter orange and lemon, or a mutation of lemon. Its roots can be traced to South-East Asia, and it reached Italy in the 18th century, particularly Calabria, where around 100 tonnes are produced each year. The fruit is harvested by hand from November to January because it is delicate. The essential oil is 100% natural, obtained by steam distillation rather than synthetically produced, and organic versions from organic cultivation are available.

The essential oil has strong antiseptic properties and helps treat skin conditions, acne, eczema and psoriasis. Bergamot has antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties and effectively combats fungi. It is particularly suitable for oily skin, acne and cold sores. It is an excellent fragrance ingredient for natural perfumes or deodorants. Its action involves antimicrobial, antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties provided by components such as limonene, linalyl acetate and linalool, which destroy bacteria and fungi and regulate sebum. It soothes irritated skin, supports wound healing, cleanses pores and regulates sebum production. It is used at concentrations of 1-3% in carrier oils or facial toners for safe application to avoid photosensitivity.

We recommend it for oily, acne-prone and blemish-prone skin with spots, blackheads or cysts, as well as sensitive skin with eczema, psoriasis or cold sores. It is suitable for cleansing and refreshing dehydrated skin, regenerating mature skin and brightening skin prone to dark spots. It is ideal for those looking for a natural antiseptic for homemade cosmetics, but not for sensitive skin exposed to the sun unless the FC F (furocoumarin-free) version is used.

A study published in the Journal of Applied Microbiology (2016) demonstrated that bergamot essential oil at a concentration of 0,5% inhibited the growth of Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli bacteria by more than 90% within 2 hours of exposure, confirming its antiseptic effects on skin infections. Further research in Phytotherapy Research (2018) showed that topical application of bergamot in a 1% solution reduced inflammatory markers in mice with psoriasis by 68% after 7 days. These data support its clinical use for skin conditions.