Ever notice a citrus note you weren’t able to identify or seen bergamot as a top note in a perfume but wasn't sure what it was? This versatile citrus fruit has been a popular element in scented products and teas since the 1700s.
Bergamot (Citrus bergamia) is a type of orange that is considered non-edible, because of its sour taste. These fragrant citrus fruits are about the size of a regular orange, with a yellow or green color like lime. Indigenous to Southeast Asia, Bergamot trees are now widely grown on the Ionian Sea coast of Calabria in Southern Italy and many perfumes use the scent to evoke the sunny, relaxed feel of the Mediterranean.
What Does Bergamot Smell Like?
Bergamot has the bright sunniness typical of citrus but with a unique floral and spicy edge. It’s tart, acidic, and highly fragrant. In fact, it is the oil of this fruit that gives Earl Grey tea its distinctive scent and flavor. The oils of bergamot are extracted by cold-pressing the rind. Perfumers love bergamot because it can complement a wide range of scents; from earthy, to herbal, to floral.
What Are the Potential Health Benefits of Bergamot?
Bergamot offers an array of benefits, both in terms of health and perfumery. In the realm of health, bergamot has a rich history in various traditional medicinal practices, such as Italian folk medicine and Ayurveda. While there may not be sufficient evidence to conclusively prove its effectiveness in treating specific conditions, research suggests a range of potential benefits associated with bergamot use.
- Stress Relief: One notable advantage of bergamot is its ability to provide stress relief. An intriguing study from 2015 demonstrated that a combination of bergamot oil and water was effective in reducing feelings of anxiety and fatigue, particularly in women.
-Mood Regulation: Additionally, bergamot oil used in aromatherapy has been found to stimulate the release of dopamine and serotonin—vital hormones that regulate mood. This makes bergamot a potential mood regulator.
-Fatigue Regulation: Moreover, bergamot is frequently utilized in aromatherapy to manage various unpleasant symptoms of pregnancy, including nausea and fatigue. The soothing and calming properties of bergamot make it a popular choice for expectant mothers seeking natural remedies. In summary, bergamot offers a range of benefits both in terms of health and perfumery. Classic Bergamot
Classic Bergamot Scents:
Versace Versense Pour Femme and Pour Homme (unisex). Features Bergamot notes that are suitable for both men and women.
Guerlian is another favorite of The Aromi and this fragrance is also designed to be unisex. This standout bergamot fragrance is known for its fresh and citrusy scent.
Nicole Barrett has a diverse range of interests that go beyond her passion for perfume and fragrance writing. Alongside her love for exploring different scents, Nicole is an avid traveler and lover of all things wellness. Nicole is a huge believer in the mind/body connection and this has fueled her passion for investigating the connection between scent and memories. Furthermore, when she isn't seeking relaxation and rejuvenation, you can find Nicole happily lounging on the beach, enjoying the soothing sound of the waves and the warmth of the sun. Nicole is a common contributor to The Aromi and most recently authored our 2023 Christmas Gift Guide.