by Melissa Chichester
Cultivated in the Calabria region of southern Italy, bergamot actually gets its name from a city in northern Italy where the oil was first sold: Bergamo, located in the Lombardy region. Bergamot fruit is the size of an orange, but similar in color to lemons and limes. Because the fruit is not edible, it is harvested for use in essential oils, flavoring for Earl Grey tea, and candy making. Bergamot is one of the most common top notes in perfumery, used for both male and female fragrances. Some perfume types, like chypres (scents characterized by citrus top notes that contrast against animalistic base notes) would not be possible without bergamot.
Refreshingly fruity with just a touch of spice, bergamot oil has an uplifting and cleansing scent. Bergamot is everyone’s best friend: this oil plays nicely with just about everyone it meets, including citrus oils like grapefruit and lemon, and floral scents like lavender and ylang ylang.
Here are 9 ways to incorporate bergamot essential oil in your aromatherapy collection.
In a microwave safe bowl, heat coconut oil and shredded soap for twenty seconds, and stir. Do this in intervals until the soap is completely melted.
Remove the coconut oil and soap from the microwave and add the sugar, honey, and essential oils. Stir until mixed, and scoop sugar scrub into ice cube tray mold. Put the sugar scrub cubes in the freezer for 40 minutes or until firm. When the mixture is set, pop the sugar cubes out of the tray and store in an airtight glass jar.
To use in the shower or bath, place the cube in your hand, run warm water over it, and crush it in your palm. Massage gently over arms and legs, then rinse.
Mix all ingredients in a small bowl and massage onto arms and legs as needed.
Add ten cups of water to a pot, and heat until warm (not boiling!). Pour the water into a container that is large enough for your feet. Add all ingredients and mix until dissolved. Soak feet for ten minutes or until the water begins to cool.
In a small bowl, mix both salts until blended. Add the oils and mix again. Add three tablespoons to warm bath water as the tub is filling up. Soak and relax!
Combine all ingredients in your favorite diffuser and enjoy a medley of citrus fruits and cooling mint.
Mix all ingredients in an 8-ounce spray bottle and mix well. Spray on feet after showering, or on bare feet after a long day!
Add the water and salt to a spray bottle, and shake until combined. Add the oils and shake again. Spritz onto hair for loose, beachy waves. Before using again, shake the bottle to mix the ingredients.
In a small bowl, whisk clay and vinegar until blended well. Add essential oils and whisk again. Pat the mixture onto face and let dry for 20-30 minutes. Rinse with warm water.
Add all ingredients to your favorite diffuser and just try not to smile with this cheerful oil blend.
