Bergamot (Citrus aurantium bergamia), organic from Italy

Essential oil of Bergamot is produced by cold expression of the peel of bitter oranges. Many people recognize the citrusy, uplifting scent as a component of Earl Grey tea. Bergamot is a great boon to the skin as well as a useful essential oil for a variety of emotional issues.

Essential oil of Bergamot should always be diluted before use as it is highly photo toxic. Exposure to direct sunlight with undiluted Bergamot on the skin will result in dark patches which may take days or months to go away. That said, Bergamot is very effective for acne, cold sores, eczema, psoriasis, and scabies. It repels insects and eases the pain and itching of insect bites. Bergamot combined with Lavender often works on unidentified skin rashes when other concoctions fail.

Bergamot can also be used as an inhalant for fevers, colds, flu, and bronchitis. It is antispasmodic and antiseptic. It has been shown to inhibit the growth of staph, diphtheria, and tuberculosis pathogens. It smoothes the flow of Qi and disperses stagnant Qi, helping with liver congestion, gall bladder problems, and digestive complaints. For these ailments, a warm compress of Bergamot held on the abdomen is suggested.

A douche of distilled water, cider vinegar, and Bergamot has proven very effective for yeast infections and other vaginal infections, as well as urinary tract infections. Bergamot in bath water can help these ailments as well.

Bergamot can be diluted in Witch Hazel and distilled water as a gargle for halitosis and sore throat.

By far the most useful aspect of Bergamot is its effect on the emotions and psyche. It is uplifting, cooling, and refreshing. It helps with anxiety, stress, frustration, and irritability. It is excellent at dealing with unexpressed anger turned inwards: the source of most depression. Bergamot can help one experience life rather than hiding from it; to open up the heart to joy and allow us to ask for help when we need it. It eases self-criticism and bolsters self-confidence; allowing us to get beyond feelings of helplessness and burnout. Bergamot can also help us let go of addictive behavior, and soften the effects of ADHD.

Always dilute your essential oils in an unscented carrier oil like Sesame or Jojoba. A good general rule is 10 drops per ounce of carrier oil. Do not take essential oils internally.

All information in this description is copyright Kamala’s Own LLC. Please ask for permission to reprint it. This description is not medical advice and the information herein comes from personal experience, research, and folklore. If you believe you are ill, consult an M.D. Nothing here is meant to diagnose, treat, prevent or cure any medical condition. Nothing here has been evaluated by the FDA.