by Alison Angold | Qualified Aromatherapist | CIDESCO ITEC
Bergamot is a citrus fruit and, I think, the most underrated and possibly under-used citrus essential oil! Here we are going to discover what to use bergamot essential oil for and what does bergamot blend well with?
(This article contains affiliate links and as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.)
What does bergamot blend well with?
Being a lovely light citrus fragrance Bergamot blends well with most other oils. It’s blends particularly well with:
- Lavender
- Neroli
- Petitgrain
- Jasmine
- Cypress
- Chamomile
- Rosemary
- Tea Tree
- Geranium
- Juniper
- Lemon
Bergamot essential oil is extracted from the peel of the bergamot fruit, which looks a bit like a small, green orange. It is native to tropical Asia, however, it is now grown mostly in hot and sunny Southern Italy.
The aroma of Bergamot essential oil is delightful! It is a light, uplifting, fresh, citrus, summer-like scent, that because of its refreshing aroma, blends well with so many other essential oils.
Bergamot essential oil can be used in so many different ways and to help with so many different ailments and conditions.
How to use bergamot essential oil
There are a number of ways to use bergamot oil effectively, the main and most beneficial are;
- A body massage oil
- A bath oil
- A facial oil
- A chest rub
- In a diffuser
Bergamot essential oil recipes
A massage oil is a great way to use Bergamot. Blend bergamot with a carrier oil and another essential oil to create a tailor-made treatment for whatever ails you!
Bergamot massage oil blend for irritated & inflamed skin
A study has shown that various essential oils, including bergamot, have anti-inflammatory properties. Argan oil has its own anti-inflammatory properties so makes a great base for your blend. Either of the blends is good for soothing sensitive inflamed skin.
- 10 ml Argan oil
- 2 drops Bergamot
- 2 drops Chamomile
- 2 drops Geranium
- 10 ml Argan oil
- 3 drops Bergamot
- 3 drops Melissa
Choose your blend and apply it to the affected area regularly.
Bergamot massage oil for digestion
Sweet Almond makes a good base for most essential oil blends, as it is packed with vitamins, whilst being soothing and nourishing.
This is a good oil to ensure good digestion, but also to use for any feelings of nausea. Apply a small amount to the abdomen and massage in, when needed.
- 50 ml Sweet Almond Oil
- 20 drops Bergamot
- 15 drops Ginger
This is a slightly stronger blend as fennel helps to detox and cleanse the intestines, colon, and liver while regulating digestion. Massage a small amount into the abdomen.
- 50 ml Sweet Almond Oil
- 10 drops Bergamot
- 10 drops Fennel
- 10 drops Chamomile
(Avoid Fennel and Chamomile during pregnancy and Fennel if epileptic)
Any carrier oils can be used for these blends however Jojoba is a good base as recognised well by the skin, as it has a similar structure to the skin’s natural oil, so absorbed well.
Bergamot urinary system blend
This is a powerhouse blend to help with urinary tract infections including cystitis. Massage a small amount into the abdomen as needed. This oil should only be used when needed.
- 10 ml Jojoba Oil
- 3 drops Bergamot
- 2 drops Juniper
(Do not use Juniper during pregnancy and if suffering from kidney disease)
Another good combination for treating urinary infections.
- 10 ml Jojoba oil
- 3 drops Bergamot
- 2 drops Pine
Immune boosting bergamot massage blend
Both Rosehip and Sweet Almond oils are packed with vitamins and anti-oxidants, so make add to the ‘immune boosting’ properties of the essential oils.
This is an uplifting blend that helps protect against colds and flu.
A lovely fruity, herby blend that helps improve the immune system to our defence against illness.
- 50 ml of Rosehip or Sweet Almond oil
- 10 drops Bergamot
- 10 drops Grapefruit
- 10 drops Rosewood
- 50 ml Rosehip or Sweet Almond oil
- 10 drops Bergamot
- 10 drops Thyme
(Avoid thyme during pregnancy and if suffering with high blood pressure)
Bergamot essential oil diffuser blends
Bergamot is great in a diffuser or a burner and can be used alone or mixed with other beneficial essential oils.
Uplifting diffuser blends
Bergamot blends well with any other citrus oil for a refreshing, uplifting effect. All citrus oils are ‘top’ notes, meaning that it is the scent you usually smell first, but the scent doesn’t last long. A pure citrus blend will smell amazing, but if you want a longer-lasting scent, then pair it with a middle or base note.
A pure citrus blend, really refreshing & light
Bergamot & Rosemary & Lavender
This blend smells amazing! A good mix of fruit, herbs, and floral.
Bergamot, Basil & Frankincense
Refreshing yet, earthy, the frankincense adds an unusual but fragrant twist.
You may also like; ESSENTIAL OILS FOR STUDYING
Immune boosting diffuser blend
Bergamot, Rosemary & Tea Tree
A delicious smelling blend, with an antiseptic note.
Bergamot, Chamomile & Clary Sage
Lightly fragranced Chamomile makes a great addition here, to the stronger fragrances.
Respiratory diffuser blend
Bergamot, Ginger & Lemongrass
A refreshing, zingy fragrance!
Bergamot, Eucalyptus & Tea-tree
An ideal blend for those amid any respiratory issues, to breathe in and clear the respiratory tract and lungs.
Relaxing & sedating diffuser blend
A study has shown that inhalation of bergamot can reduce feelings of anxiety and fatigue.
Bergamot, Benzoin & Lavender
A relaxing soothing blend with a subtle aroma.
Bergamot, Petitgrain & Ylang Ylang
You may also like; CITRUS DIFFUSER BLENDS, DIFFUSER BLENDS FOR SLEEP
Benefits of bergamot oil
Studies have shown that Bergamot essential oil is an effective analgesic and has anti-inflammatory properties, which makes it effective at treating a variety of conditions.
Bergamot oil benefits for the skin
Bergamot has antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and cooling properties, meaning that it will be effective for inflamed or sore skin conditions, such as acne, eczema, and psoriasis. It is also useful to use on insect bites and cold sores, but remember not to use the oil neat on the skin.
Bergamot oil benefits for the nervous system
A great oil to use for depression, anxiety, or stress as, like most citrus oils, it is refreshing and uplifting on the emotions. Bergamot is also known to relieve anger and frustration.
Bergamot oil benefits for the digestive system
Bergamot is a really useful oil for any issues with the digestive system. It relieves flatulence and indigestion, it may reduce the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome, and is also effective for regulating the appetite. This would be useful, perhaps after an illness, or if on a diet plan to get eating habits to a normal, regular level. Also, because of this, bergamot could be a good oil to use for anorexia to encourage regular eating habits.
Bergamot oil benefits for the respiratory system
Good oil to relieve symptoms of colds, flu, and respiratory disorders such as bronchitis. It is also particularly useful for reducing inflammatory conditions like sore throats or tonsillitis. Bergamot can make a refreshing change from the stronger oils, beneficial for respiratory disorders, like pine or eucalyptus – although these oils complement each other well.
Bergamot oil benefits for the urinary system
Bergamot is thought to relieve the symptoms of cystitis and associated urinary tract infections. It may also relieve the symptoms and prevent thrush.
- Blend with a carrier oil for massage on the lower abdomen or add a few drops to some natural, live yogurt for relieving the symptoms of thrush.
Bergamot oil benefits for the lymphatic system
The lymphatic system can also be known as the immune system as it is responsible for removing waste and toxins from the body, as well as fighting infection. Bergamot oil is known to strengthen the immune system, thus helping us fight off illness.
You may also like;
Therapeutic Actions Of Bergamot
Every essential oil is made up of a unique chemical complex and has a variety of properties or therapeutic actions, which means how they can affect the skin, body, or mind.
- Analgesic – has pain-relieving properties
- Anti-inflammatory – reduces or prevents inflammation
- Antiseptic – prevents or removes infection
- Antiviral – prevents virus or kills viruses
- Cooling – cools and calms the area of application
- Relaxing – relaxes the area of application and has a general relaxing effect on the body
- Sedative – calms the nervous system
- Stomachic – aids digestive issues, such as indigestion, flatulence and constipation
- Uplifting – has a positive effect on the mind and uplifts the emotions
So you can see the multitude of benefits that bergamot essential oil has!
What you need to blend bergamot essential oil
A diffuser is a wonderful way to use essential oils and allow the aromas to fill your room to inhale! A burner can also be used.
Remember to always blend your essential oils into a carrier oil and ideally store them in amber or tinted bottle. This ensures that no light or heat can affect the delicate chemical composition of the essential oils.
For full information on blending READ HERE
People often ask;
Do Bergamot and Lavender go together?
The answer is yes! In fact, this is one of my favourite pairings. The addition of either Rosemary or Tea Tree makes it an even better aroma. Bergamot, Lavender & Tea Tree makes a very good anti-viral blend.
Do Bergamot & Frankincense go together?
Again, yes! Bergamot is such a light, top note, aroma, that it pairs very well with the heavier scent of Frankincense. They are both relaxing, sedating, and uplifting so make a beneficial diffuser blend while smelling good too.
Does Bergamot blend well with peppermint?
Yes, it does, however, go easy on the peppermint. If too much peppermint is used it will drown out the more delicate fragrance of the bergamot. I would suggest using half the amount of peppermint to bergamot in your blends.
Side effects of Bergamot essential oil
Bergamot is generally safe and non-toxic to us, however, like most citrus oils, it is phototoxic, which means that skin can burn if exposed to sunlight after application. If applying Bergamot to the skin then avoid sun exposure directly after.
What are essential oils?
Essential oils are the pure oils extracted from the leaves & flowers of plants, herbs, fruit, or even the bark, resin, and roots of trees. The molecules in essential oils are so fine that they can penetrate the skin when applied topically.
They can be absorbed into the deeper layers of the skin, and affect the skin cells of the lower layers. Most creams and skincare products only reach the top few layers of the skin, which is literally paper-thin, so while they are effective at hydrating the cells here, it is not having an enormous effect on the skin cells below.
In addition, the essential oils, can enter the bloodstream and travel around the body to have a positive effect where it is needed.
If ever in any doubt about the use of essential oils, please consult a doctor or your local aromatherapist for a consultation.
| DISCLAIMER; Even though I am a qualified and experienced aromatherapist, the recommendations in this article are suggestions only. If ever in any doubt about the use of essential oils, then please consult a medical professional. If you have a particular illness or medical issue, then advice from a medical professional should be sought before using essential oils. |
| About the Author Alison Angold is a fully qualified (certified) beauty therapist, massage therapist, and aromatherapist from the UK. She has over 25 years of experience in this industry and has worked in a variety of beauty salons, spa’s as well as running her own successful beauty and massage business. Her career has allowed her to treat many, many clients, with skincare concerns, medical conditions, and a whole variety of other ailments and issues, which has enabled her to work closely with essential oils, prescribing specific blends for these clients to help with these conditions. Her qualifications in the use of essential oils and aromatherapy, allow her to share this knowledge with others, in a safe, reliable way. |
Pingback: DIY Bath Oil With Essential Oils - Bath Oil Recipes