The Bergamot tree is said to have been imported by Christopher Columbus from the Canary Islands to Spain. From there it was into Calabria, Italy. It may be named after the city of Bergamo in Lombardy where the oil was first produced or may have been derived from the shape of the fruit that resembles the Bergamot pear.
In Napoleonic times, Bergamot was especially popular as a perfume and became a classic ingredient in toilet water. From the sixteenth century onwards, Bergamot appeared as an antiseptic and febrifuge and was used for hundreds of years in Italian folk medicine.
Like all citrus oils, Bergamot is essentially cooling, refreshing and it is gently relaxing, yet distinctly uplifting. In aromatherapy, it is well known for its use to calm anxiety, to ease urinary tract infections, and works very well in skin care.

Physical
Bergamot has a strong affinity for the urino-genital tract and is one of the most valuable oils, along with chamomile and lavender in treating cystitis and urethritis. Many cases of cystitis begin as urethritis and the infection travels up the urethra to the bladder. Bergamot oil used in the early stages can often prevent the infection from spreading upwards in this way. It should be added to a bath and used as a local wash in a much diluted solution of a half or one percent dilution. As a local wash, it is also valuable for the relief of vaginal pruritus and mild discharges (it is very important that all discharges are investigated). For those that suffer with frequent recurrent attacks of cystitis, it is a powerful disinfectant of the urinary tract.
It may also be used as an inhalation for respiratory tract infections such as tonsillitis, bronchitis and tuberculosis. Combined with tea tree, it can be applied as a compress, or in a cream for treatment of cold sores, chicken pox and shingles.
Its action on the digestive system is well documented. Described as a carminative and digestive, it is useful in relieving colic, flatulence and indigestion.
Peter Holmes describes Bergamot as “having a pronounced stimulating effect on the liver, stomach and spleen awakening the appetite. Gastric stagnation due to weakness and deficiency is mobilized. Not only is the heaviness and distension relieved, but also the despondency which is usually associated with this condition disappears as Bergamot is an effective antidepressant.”
Consider combining Bergamot with oils such as coriander, chamomile and fennel, as it will help to rectify these problems through releasing and circulating stagnant Qi in the stomach and intestines.
In his writings, Dr. Jean Valnet also mentions the use of Bergamot for the treatment of loss of appetite. This combined with its powerful antidepressant properties might indicate it as being useful for anorexia nervosa or simple regulation of the appetite. It could be considered also for compulsive eaters in that working with underlying emotions that have provoked the under- or overeating habits, having the possibility to restore balance.

Mind and Spirit
Almost everyone likes Bergamot’s fresh and lively but gentle, flowery fragrance. Its sedative and yet uplifting characteristics make it an ideal oil to use in a burner, bath or in a massage for anxiety, depression and nervous tension. Its principal therapeutic value rests with its regulating effect on the nervous system. Here it is deeply calming yet its gentle toning action contributes both to its antispasmodic nature and its ability to relieve nervous tension and anxiety. Its cooling and refreshing quality seems to sooth anger and frustration, probably by decreasing the action on the sympathetic nervous system.
Just as stagnant Qi can cause the digestive system to be upset, on an emotional level Bergamot’s psychological action also depends on its ability to disperse stagnant Qi energy. It is this condition that can manifest as tension, irritability and frustration and if never released or processed can eventually result in depression. Depression due to stagnant Qi energy is therefore the result of accumulated stress or repressed emotion. The emotion most often involved is that of unexpressed anger, the key emotion of the liver and wood element.
These effects have been well documented by Paolo Rovesti, who noted important psychological benefits for patients under psychiatric care. He continues to say that for all tense, anxious or depressed people, Bergamot should be used in massage oil, either alone or in a blend. The client should then begin using a Bergamot blend in a bath at home or in a diffusor blend around the office or home. As an essential oil, it is also pleasing to both men and women and it blends well with almost any flower.

Gabriel Mojay sums up the action of Bergamot:

“Like lavender, bergamot oil encourages the release of pent up feelings, feelings that can lead not only to depression but insomnia, anxiety and sudden mood swings. It helps in addiction to redirect nervous energy away from unproductive or addictive behavior, helping us to rediscover spontaneity and optimism. Bergamot oil helps us relax and let go.”

Skin Care
Its antiseptic properties combined with its delightful fragrance make it a good choice for the treatment of acne and other oily skin conditions. It can be applied in a topical treatment blend or massage oil and it can also be blended in creams, lotions or hydrosols. When you are custom blending essential oils for your clients’ skin, always proceed with caution when using Bergamot. Bergamot contains forocoumarins, notably Bergaptene, which has been found to be phototoxic. Always ensure that your oil is Bergaptene-free, ensuring a safe experience for your client. In addition, after a massage or bath where Bergamot has been used, exposure to the sun should be avoided. Keep in mind that well known aromatherapy suppliers will carry Bergaptene-free Bergamot oil.

Trish Green is a homeopath, certified clinical and medically trained aromatherapist. She recently completed her education in aromatherapy for use in Oncology practice. She is the director of sales and marketing for Eve Taylor North America.