The bergamot plant, otherwise known as citrus bergamia, is a small spiny tree bearing round citrus fruits similar to oranges in appearance. Originally found in the tropical climates of South East Asia, 80% of the world’s bergamot is now cultivated commercially in the province of Calabria in Southern Italy. The essential oil, which is extracted from the rinds of the plant’s fruit, is highly prized for its use as a soothing aromatherapy treatment. Here are some of the ways you can incorporate this therapeutic oil into your skin and self-care routine.
Bergamot essential oil has a sweet, citrusy aroma with floral notes. When inhaled, it’s said to trigger signals in the limbic system – the part of the brain that regulates emotions and memories – resulting in an increase in the feel-good hormone serotonin and the neurotransmitter dopamine. That means that it can help to elevate mood, alleviate anxiety and promote a good night’s sleep.
Try it for yourself by burning our Lemongrass & Bergamot Candle, recreating that spa-like feel in the comfort of your own home, just perfect for relaxing and unwinding after a long day.
If you want bergamot’s divine scent to follow you from room to room, you could pair your candle with our Lemongrass & Bergamot Reed Diffuser, or our matching Room Spray – the ultimate scented scene-setters, enhancing the aroma of every room in your home.
The calming effects of bergamot are not limited to its aroma; it also contains powerful skin-nourishing ingredients, which is why it’s such a staple in our skin and body care products. Bergamot essential oil contains limonene, a potent antioxidant, as well as linalyl acetate, linalool and pinene, which all have disinfectant properties. This makes bergamot the perfect cleanser, particularly for oily skin, as its anti-bacterial properties help to prevent the growth of bacteria, unclogging pores and regulating sebum levels. It has a soothing and calming effect, helping to nourish a tired complexion.
You can find this magic oil in our Nourish Face Exfoliate Mask. The bergamot essential oil works with other bioactive ingredients, such as bamboo powder, gardenia extract, neroli and sandalwood, to gently buff away dull skin cells, leaving your complexion polished and bright.
Due to its anti-inflammatory properties, bergamot essential oil has also been praised for its ability to combat skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis. Our Inspire Body Wash contains bergamot along with mandarin, lime and black pepper, bringing you a wonderfully balanced blend that will soothe your mind and calm your nerves. When applied, the bergamot penetrates deeply to hydrate and repair the appearance of angry and inflamed skin.
Bergamot essential oil truly is multipurpose. Not only does it have a divine scent, it also offers tons of benefits for the body and mind. If you haven’t already, why not add this all-natural, nutrient-rich essential oil to your collection, to get your skin glowing from the inside out!
Love Jane x