Welcome to another of Organica J’s Top Ten Uses! This month will be focusing on 10 helpful uses for Bergamot essential oil (citrus bergamia) .  When working as a clinical aromatherapist I often turn to bergamot when working with clients who could benefit from its gentle, but powerful uplift.

I remember very clearly using it on my own daughter when she was younger, on her chickenpox, blended along with tea tree and lavender to ‘dot on’ the spots. The spots come up and went very quickly and stayed very small. Many clients have used this blend containing bergamot essential oil for this since.

I also use bergamot as one ingredient in my Rose Heaven blend of essential oils. It is also in my personal favourite, Rose Heaven soap. I use bergamot in these products for its amazing power to uplift and calm.

1.  uplifting, can be helpful for anxiety and mild depression
2.  may be helpful for emotional stress with its sedative properties
3.  deodorising and cooling
4.  may be helpful for cystitis & urinary infections
5.  it has antiseptic properties and is good for minor wounds
6.  dispelling cold sores, helpful with chickenpox and shingles
7.  may help to regulate appetite (working with a professional aromatherapist)
8.  can be helpful for oily skin & acne

9. can be good for easing indigestion & flatulence

10. it is supportive of the grieving process

The Bergamot that I sell is from Italy (where the oil originated from). The oil is a lovely green colour and is produced by cold expression from the rind of the almost ripe fruit. The fruit is from the citrus bergamia tree. Bergamot essential oil has an exquisite citrusy, fresh scent.

Please note: do not use undiluted Bergamot on the skin, always use in low percentages in any blend that is to be left on the skin (ie not washed off, such as in soaps). Especially if used on skin that is to be exposed to strong sunlight. Wait at least 12 hours after application to the body before exposing your skin to strong sunlight. You can also obtain a bergaptene free bergamot oil.

If you feel this would be a useful oil for you, you can buy Bergamot essential oil here from Organica J.

For using essential oils for specific or complex medical problems always contact a qualified aromatherapist or check with your GP.