Bergamot

Bergamot (Citrus bergamia) not to be confused with the common garden herb, bee balm (Monarda didyma) which is also called Bergamot is a member of the Rutaceae family. The tree in the wild can grow up to 12 meters, however under cultivation it is pruned to about 4 - 5 metres. It has deep green leaves and small white fragrant flowers. The fruit is about the size of a small orange and not considered edible. The plant originated in the tropical parts of Asia and is grown in Italy and the Ivory Coast. A greenish - yellow essential oil is extracted by expression from the peel of the fruit. It has a sweet citrus floral aroma. For more on this profile go to Bergamot

Bergamot has a wonderful uplifting aroma and it is an aroma that appeals to people of all ages. In the 1960s and 70, Italian doctor, Paoli Rosvesti, confirmed through his research that bergamot helped to relieve depressive states and anxiety.

Contraindications: Expressed bergamot is known to cause phototoxicity when applied to the skin. Exposure to sunlight and UV rays should be avoided for 12 hours after application. It may also irritate sensitive skin. One can also purchase Bergamot FCF. This oil has been rectified to remove the furocoumarins which are considered to be responsible for the phototoxic reaction.

My Blend for Today in the diffuser: Lavender 3, Bergamot 3, Rosewood 1