Bergamot essential oil is subtle and uplifting, uniting the one of the most enticing perfume aromas with the possibility of powerful healing effects. This light greenish-yellow bergamot has fresh, sweet-tart, orange-fruit scent, with a slightly spicy balsamic undertone. Bergamot essential oil is named after the Italian city of Bergamo in Lombardy, where the oil was first sold. This is a truly wonderful Bergamot, with a more exquisite combination of notes than any we've ever tried.

The oil is cold-pressed from the outer peels of bitter oranges, from a tree about 14 feet high. The tree yields small round fruit, much like miniature oranges in appearance. Originating in tropical Asia, the tree is most widely grown in Italy.

Bergamot stimulates the pancreas and the liver in some people, has shown anti-microbial effects in some studies, especially on the bronchies, and may offer support in cases of slow digestion and hypertension. As a natural skin toner and detoxifier it may prevent premature aging of skin and may have excellent effects on oily skin conditions and acne for some individuals. Because of its phototoxicity, care should be taken to apply to skin areas which will not be exposed significantly to sunlight in the following 72 hours. Further, Bergamot oil is noted to have a slightly irritating effect on the skin, but the opposite effect at low concentrations 3% or less in carrier oil).

Bergamot oil is foremost traditionally considered a miraculous neuro-tonic and a powerful helper against depression caused by fatigue or unreleased tensions and frustrations. Bergamot is added to many essential oil blends which have been created to bring mental clarity. As noted by Gabriel Mojay in 'Aromatherapy for Healing the Spirit', "Bergamot oil's psychological action depends on its ability to disperse stagnant Chi. This condition can manifest as tension, irritability, and frustration, and if never released or processed, can eventually lead to depression...Bergamot helps us to relax and let go."

Blends utilizing the Bergamot essential oil's uplifting and releasing effects are recommended as follows:

• To release aggravation and pressure - 2 parts Roman Chamomile, 2 parts Bergamot and 2 parts Sweet Orange.
• To overcome nervousness and agitation - 3 parts Lavender, 2 parts Neroli and 1 part Bergamot.
• When frustrated and negative, try - 3 parts Bergamot, 2 parts Sweet Orange and 1 part Neroli.
• Finally, when bitter and brooding - 2 parts Roman Chamomile, 2 Parts Bergamot and 2 parts Helichrysum.

These blends may be used in a diffuser, or diluted to 3% total concentration in one or more carrier oils for a wonderful aromatherapy massage.