Description

Evergreen tree growing to 30 ft (10 m). Has pointed oval leaves, scented white flowers, and fruit with aromatic peel.

Habitat & Cultivation

Native to tropical Asia, bergamot is cultivated in sub-tropical regions, especially in southern Italy.

Part Used

Essential oil.

Constituents

Bergamot contains a volatile oil including linalyl acetate (30–60%), limonene (26–42%), and linalool (11–22%), bergapten, and a diterpene.

History & Folklore

Bergamot oil, expressed from the peel, provides the distinctive flavor of Earl Grey tea. The oil (or constituents of it) is sometimes added to suntanning oils.

Medicinal Actions & Uses

Bergamot is little used in herbal medicine, but it can be used to relieve tension, relax muscle spasms, and improve digestion.

Caution

Do not take bergamot essential oil internally.