Description
Botany
The Bergamot Orange tree is possibly named after the Italian city of Bergamot where it was cultivated, after being allegedly introduced to Spain and Italy from the Canary Islands by Christopher Columbus. It’s native range is tropical Asia. The evergreen Bergamot Orange tree (Citrus aurantium subsps.bergamia) is a small tree that reaches about 15 feet in height and produces a small, wrinkled green fruit that ripens to yellow. It is a hybrid of the Seville orange and Citrus limetta, the so-called “pear lemon”.
Historical Uses
Essential oil of Bergamot has been an important remedy in Italian folk medicine, where it has been used as an antiseptic, to reduce fevers, and for respiratory complaints. The oil is also famous for its use in the perfume industry. Bergamot essential oil is the distinctive ingredient in Earl Grey tea.
Safety Considerations
Follow general safety guidelines for all essential oils as noted in the box below. Bergamot FCF essential oil has a relatively short shelf-life ( 6 months with refrigeration and 3 months with standard careful storage away from heat and light). Old or spoiled Bergamot FCF essential oil should be discarded.
BOTANICAL NAME | Citrus aurantium
ORIGIN | Italy
CULTIVATION | Conventional
METHOD OF EXTRACTION | Cold Expression
SOURCE | Fruit
NOTE | Top, Middle
BLENDS WELL WITH | Eucalyptus and Geranium
