Citrus aurantium var. bergamia

Producing organ: fruit peel

Origin: Italy

Crop: Organic EcoCert

Production method: Expressed. The fruit is allowed to dry and harden before processing. It is then placed in a trough that is lined with sharp projections long enough to pierce the oil glands in the outer portion of the peel. A fine spray of water washes the oil from the mashed peel, while the juice is removed by rotating it at a very high speed. The oil is separated using a seperatory funnel or an industrial application using a similar technology.

Main therapeutic constituents: limonene, y-terpinene, linalyl acetate.

Wellness Support: Bergamot aromatherapy essential oil is useful for skin ailments because of its analgesic and vulnerary therapeutic actions. It is also an insecticide which can help to prevent insect bites. When used in a bath soak it helps to stimulate, energize, and strengthen the body. Bergamot also considered one of the most effective essential oils for mental and emotional health.*

Perfumery: Bergamot is an important and classic perfume material. It gives a delicate top note, along with strength and body, to a fragrance blend. Unlike most citrus oils, it does have a certain fixative effect when used in high concentrations. It imparts a refreshing characteristic eau de cologne fragrance. The fresh citrus fragrance has an uplifting effect on the mind.

Oils That Blend Well With Bergamot: Bergamot oil’s delicate aroma blends well with Chamomile, coriander, cypress, geranium, jasmine, juniper.

Cautions and Contraindications: Bergamot’s toxic rating is Low, however a skin patch test is required. The toxic constituents are methoxypsoralen and furocoumarins. Extreme care should be taken with topical application, because its bergaptene content can cause abnormal skin pigmentation and possible skin cancer when exposed to the sun. This action is intensified if the bergamot is blended with alcohol. For this reason, some authors recommend avoiding its use during pregnancy and nursing. It is recommended to avoid exposure for at least 12 hours regardless of dilution, as ultraviolet light exposure is increasing with the continued depletion of the ozone layer. Do not use at the same time as photosensitizing drugs as the bergapten content can compound photosensitizing effects and increase the risk of side effects

Formulas:

BODY POWDER*

This body powder is a good alternative to commercial powders, which usually contain talc or French chalk, which is finely ground magnesium silicate and, with prolonged inhalation, can cause lung problems. Its chemical composition is similar to asbestos, a known carcinogen and lung irritant. The cornstarch deodorizes, absorbs, and draws out moisture. You can replace bergamot with any essential oil or a blend of your choice.

White clay: 1-cup

Corn starch or arrowroot powder: 1-cup

Slippery elm Ulmus rubra powder (optional): 1/4-cup

Comfrey root Symphytum officinal e powder (optional): 1/4-cup

Bergamot Citrus aurantium var. bergamia oil: 8-15-drops

Mix all the powders and grind finely. A food processor is ideal for this. Sift the powders two or three times to ensure they are fine and free of lumps. Sprinkle the essential oil over the powder and mix. Again, sift the powders two or three times to ensure they are fine and free of lumps. To begin with, the scent should be stronger than you would prefer, as it will reduce as it dries out. It can be placed in body powder tubes with a shaker top. Check that it sprinkles freely from the container. If it has too much clay, it will not flow freely.

RELAXING BEDTIME BLEND

Clary sage Salvia sclarea: 3-drops

Bergamot Citrus aurantium var. bergamia: 10-drops

Benzoin resinoid Styrax benzoin: 2-drops

Chamomile Matricaria recutita (German) or Chamaemelum nobile (Roman): 2-drops

Use 2-3-drops in bath, or dilute with 1-oz massage oil and rub on the chest

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.