Bergamot (Citrus bergamia)
Bergamot-Bergamot is a wonderfully aromatic citrus fruit that brings a unique & uplifting scent profile. It’s often used in aromatherapy & perfumery for its bright, citrusy notes, but with a slightly floral, spicy undertone that adds complexity.
Imagine stepping into a sun-dappled grove in the Mediterranean, where the air is rich with the scent of citrus trees. The first breath is a burst of fresh, tangy lemon, softened by the sweet warmth of orange blossoms in the distance. As the breeze stirs, a deeper, herbaceous green note emerges, carrying hints of crushed leaves & sun-warmed earth. There’s a delicate floral undertone, like a whisper of geranium, blending seamlessly with the brightness. Then, as the sun sets, a subtle spicy warmth lingers in the air, evoking a sense of calm & balance, like the perfect balance between day & night. The aroma of Bergamot is a celebration of light & warmth, offering a burst of energy & clarity while gently soothing & grounding the spirit.
Latin Name: Citrus bergamia
Extraction Method: Cold pressed (most common) or steam distilled
Parts Used: Peel
Countries of Origin: Italy, Turkey, Morocco, ArgentinaColor: Green/Golden
Aromatic Profile: Bergamot’s aromatic profile is a bright, citrusy, & refreshing scent with a subtle floral and herbaceous undertone. It has a bittersweet edge, softer than lemon, & a faint spicy warmth in the background, like pepper or cloves. The aroma is uplifting yet calming, with a clean, complex character that balances citrus, floral, & spicy notes.
Perfumery Note: Top.
Evaporation rate: Fast -one of the first scents to appear & fade in a blend
Fixative need: Often paired with base notes like sandalwood, patchouli, or frankincense to anchor its fleeting citrus brightness
Energetics:
Uplifting, balancing, & clarifying. It is known for its ability to:
- Energize the mind: Bergamot is often used to boost mood & reduce stress, bringing a sense of joy and vitality.
- Clear emotional blockages: Its soothing yet invigorating nature helps release negative emotions like anxiety or frustration, promoting mental clarity. Promote emotional balance: It’s a gentle heart opener, encouraging optimism & mental relaxation, while also grounding the energy with its subtle spicy undertones.
- Purify the atmosphere: Like other citrus oils, it has cleansing properties, clearing away stagnation & creating a refreshing environment for emotional clarity. In ritual use, it can aid in uplifting the spirit while maintaining emotional stability, making it ideal for calming anxiety or clearing mental fog.
Blends well with:
- Citrus oils-Lemon, Grapefruit, or Orange for a bright, refreshing blend.
- Herbal oils-Lavender, Rosemary, or Basil to soften the sharper edges & introduce balance.
- Floral oils-Geranium, Jasmine, or Ylang Ylang to introduce a gentle, romantic floral element.
- Woody oils-Cedarwood, Sandalwood, or Frankincense to ground the airy qualities of Bergamot.
Modes of Application:
- Aromatherapy (Diffuser or Inhalation): Adds an uplifting, calming touch to any environment. It’s especially great in the morning for energy or during moments of stress to calm the mind.
- Bath: A few drops (with a carrier oil) in the bath can enhance relaxation & uplift the mood.
- Topical (with carrier oil): Use in facial oils, moisturizers, or for a soothing body massage.
- Hair Care: Helps balance oily scalps & adds a fresh, floral scent to your hair.
- Room Spray: Perfect for a quick, refreshing burst of energy or to clear the air with its purifying qualities.
Intentions
To lift the spirit & dissolve emotional heaviness
To encourage self-expression & authentic communication
To restore optimism during grief, sadness, or stagnation
To cleanse energetic residue from the solar plexus & heart
To balance mood swings, especially when feeling overwhelmed
To support creativity, confidence, & radiant clarity
Ritual: Solar Uplift & Energy Reset
Purpose: Clear emotional fog & restore inner brightness
Add 3 drops of Bergamot, 2 drops of Frankincense, & 1 drop of Clary Sage to a diffuser
Sit in morning light, breathe deeply, hand on heart
Affirm: “Light flows through me. I release all that dims my radiance.”
Ritual: Joyful Anointing for the Heart
Purpose: Reconnect with joy & soften emotional armor
Dilute Bergamot at 2% in jojoba oil
Anoint the heart, inner wrists, or behind the ears
Inhale and visualize a golden sphere expanding within the chest
Affirm: “I open to joy. I shine in my truth.”
Ritual: Creative Flow Invocation
Purpose: Stimulate clarity & imagination
Inhale Bergamot with Lemon & Basil before journaling or artistic work
Light a candle & set the intention to channel inspiration
Affirm: “In clarity, I create. In light, I trust.”
Sustainability/Conservation: ICUN listing: Not threatened
Safety Information — Bergamot Essential Oil
Photosensitivity Warning
Use only FCF-free Bergamot (furanocoumarin-free) for leave-on skin products if exposed to sunlight
Standard bergamot oil is phototoxic & can cause burning, redness, or discoloration if applied to skin exposed to UV light (sun or tanning beds
Avoid sun exposure for 12–24 hours after topical use unless using an FCF-free version
Topical Use
Dilution recommended: 1–2% (5–10 drops per ounce of carrier oil)
Perform a patch test before full use, especially for sensitive skin
Internal Use
Not recommended for internal use unless supervised by a qualified aromatherapist or herbal practitioner
