Bergamot Essential Oil

Bergamot Essential Oil is produced by cold expression of the fruit peel of Citrus bergamia. It has a bright citrus aroma with soft floral, green, and lightly bitter notes and is generally considered a top note in aromatic formulations.

Four Primary Constituents and Typical Ranges

• Limonene: approximately 30–45%
• Linalyl acetate: approximately 20–35%
• Linalool: approximately 5–15%
• γ-Terpinene: approximately 5–10%

These are representative natural ranges rather than guaranteed batch values. Composition varies with plant variety or chemotype, growing region, harvest, processing, distillation, storage, and the individual production batch.

Common Uses and Aromatic Properties

This essential oil is commonly used in uplifting diffusion, stress-relief blends, natural perfumery, deodorizing products, and oily-skin or scalp preparations. In aromatherapy, it is traditionally valued for uplifting, calming, balancing, cleansing, deodorizing, and skin-toning properties. These descriptions refer to customary aromatic and cosmetic use and are not claims that the oil diagnoses, treats, cures, or prevents disease.

Adult Dilution and Use

For leave-on skin products, keep cold-pressed bergamot at or below 0.4%, approximately 1 drop in 15–20 mL of carrier. Higher dilution may only be appropriate when the oil is confirmed bergapten-free or FCF. Drop measurements are approximate because drop size varies by oil and dispenser. Begin with the lowest effective dilution and perform a patch test before broader use.

Use With Children

For children age 6 and older, use no more than approximately 0.25% in leave-on products and keep treated skin out of UV light. Gentle intermittent diffusion may use 1–2 drops in a ventilated room. Do not use essential oils routinely with children under age 2 unless directed by a pediatric healthcare professional or qualified clinical aromatherapist. Never place essential oils in or near a child's eyes, nose, mouth, ears, or hands.

Safety Precautions

Phototoxic unless specifically identified as bergapten-free or FCF. After topical use, avoid sunlight, tanning beds, and strong UV exposure on the area for at least 12–18 hours. Oxidized citrus oil increases sensitization risk. For external and aromatic use only. Do not ingest unless specifically directed by a properly qualified healthcare professional. Avoid the eyes and mucous membranes, keep out of reach of children, and discontinue use if irritation or breathing discomfort occurs.