There any many essential oils that can benefit us when used stress. Why reach for Bergamot essential oil to support our mental wellness? Enjoy this complimentary essential oil monograph.
Method of extraction– Cold-pressed expression of medium ripened fruits
Blending factor– Top note. Bergamot has an initial intense heady aroma but burns off quickly as we would expect from a top note oil.
Aroma mantra- “I am always deeply centered and balanced, just as I am meant to be.”
Superstar qualities- 1. Limonene-Antimicrobial qualities provide a wonderful pick-me-up like other citrus oils. 2. Linalyl Acetate- Anti-spasmodic, provides relaxation and emotional balancing. 3. Linalool-Calming sedative properties. These three chemical constituents provide a beautiful synergy for our emotional wellbeing.
The details- Bergamot’s citrusy aroma blends well with many other essential oils. Its therapeutics makes it superior for our wellness. Reach for it when you are feeling burnt out as it is highly supportive of mental and physical fatigue (1). Many essential oils are adaptogenic in nature, meaning they meet you where you are; providing balance. Bergamot uplifts while providing peace, so it is indicated during times of situational anxiety and depression. Bergamot essential oil is a great supporter of our emotional and mental wellness.
Biggest myth- Skin reactions are a sign of detoxification. Not true. Bergamot oil is the most phototoxic of any essential oil. Do not apply to the skin and go out into the sun or lie in a tanning bed. A skin reaction from this oil or any other is not a sign of detoxification. Fun fact- Bergamot is used extensively in the food and flavoring industry. Fancy a cup of Earl Grey tea?
On a personal note- I have found great success using bergamot in a therapeutic inhalation during periods of SAD (seasonal affective disorder).
Blends well with-All other citrus oils, black pepper, chamomile Roman, clary sage, helichrysum, jasmine, lavender, niaouli, patchouli, peppermint, pink pepper, and ylang-ylang.
Safety considerations-According to the International Fragrance Association (IFRA), the maximum ratio for applying bergamot to the skin is 0.4%. The IFRA states that “The Standard is set due to the phototoxic effects of the material. The limit only applies to applications on skin exposed to sunshine, excluding rinse-off products (2).”
What do the studies say? (Studies shared in their entirety for your review)
1. Essential Oil Inhalation on Blood Pressure and Salivary Cortisol Levels in Prehypertensive and Hypertensive Subjects- The conclusion of this study was the inhalation of bergamot essential oil had immediate and positive effects on blood pressure and salivary cortisol levels (cortisol is an indicator of high levels of stress). Click here to discover the details.
2. The use of aromasticks at a cancer center- Learn how various essential oils are being used in cancer centers to help assist in helping patients be more comfortable, including bergamot essential oil. Click here to discover the details.
3. Bergamot Essential Oil Attenuates Anxiety-Like Behaviour in Rats-This study showed the undeniable antianxiety effects of bergamot essential oil as it was illustrated here with rats. Click here to discover the details.
Like so many practices in life, I encourage you to become educated on the proper use of essential oils. When using them, please do so cautiously, understanding that there is often misinformation on the internet. You can be assured that I support only educated and proven resources. While essential oils should not be feared they should be respected and used properly to ensure the safety of the individuals using them.
Please note that I am not a medical practitioner. The content of this website is provided for general informational purposes only and is not intended as, nor should it be considered a substitute for, professional medical advice. Do not use the information on this website for diagnosing or treating any medical or health condition. If you have or suspect you have a medical problem, promptly contact your professional healthcare provider. By using this website, you assume full responsibility and liability for your own actions.
References
(1) Watanabe, E., Kuchta, K., Kimura, M., Rauwald, H. W., Kamei, T., & Imanishi, J. (2015). Effects of Bergamot (Citrus bergamia (Risso) Wright & Arn.) Essential Oil Aromatherapy on Mood States, Parasympathetic Nervous System Activity, and Salivary Cortisol Levels in 41 Healthy Females. Complementary Medicine Research, 22(1), 43–49. doi: 10.1159/000380989
(2) IFRA Standard, Bergamot oil expressed. https://ifrafragrance.org/standards/IFRA_STD48_0164.pdf
