Bergamot – Citrus bergamia – Uplifting
Its Menopause Awareness Month and over the month of October, I am taking a look at four essential oils that could support you through perimenopause and beyond. Today, I am looking at Bergamot.
The key word for Bergamot is Uplifting
Energy levels can fluctuate significantly throughout perimenopause and beyond, as hormonal changes impact both our emotional and physical wellbeing, often leaving you feeling drained.
Bergamot’s uplifting bright aroma is well suited for bringing a sense of lightness and optimism to your day. Expressed from the peel of the fruit, Bergamot is like sunshine in a bottle!
When you’re feeling depleted, Bergamot essential oil is a beautiful choice to help you feel steadier. Unlike the energizing oils that might keep you awake, Bergamot offers a reset, making it suitable for use any time of day, whether you’re winding down or just starting out.
Recent research backs up its versatility. A 2023 randomized crossover trial (1) found that using bergamot essential oil before bedtime helps relax both mind and body, promoting restful sleep. Interestingly, the same study showed that when used upon awakening, Bergamot also improves mood and enhances wakefulness.
So, whether you’re easing into the evening or preparing to face the day, Bergamot meets you where you are, gently, naturally, and effectively.
How to use
Add up to 8 drops of Bergamot to your diffuser to create an uplifting yet calm atmosphere
For a morning body massage blend add up to 5 drops in total for every 10ml of vegetable oil. I love to use Jojoba as a body oil. Apply to your skin after your morning shower
What does it blend with?
Bergamot is a very versatile essential oil for blending, it compliments most other essential oils, you can try it with the woody or spicy oils, it’s wonderful with the florals and can also be used with other citrus oils too!
Safety Note
While bergamot essential oil offers a host of benefits, it’s important to be aware of its phototoxicity. In certain dilutions, bergamot can react with UV light and potentially cause skin irritation or burns when exposed to sunlight. To avoid this, always choose a version labelled FCF – which stands for Furanocoumarin-Free. This indicates that the phototoxic compounds have been removed during the extraction process, making it safe for topical use even in daylight.
For further advice or a personal consultation, don’t hesitate to get in touch.
(1) Wakui N, Togawa C, Ichikawa K, Matsuoka R, Watanabe M, Okami A, Shirozu S, Yamamura M, Machida Y. Relieving psychological stress and improving sleep quality by bergamot essential oil use before bedtime and upon awakening: A randomized crossover trial. Complement Ther Med. 2023 Oct;77:102976. doi: 10.1016/j.ctim.2023.102976