Research is still ongoing about the ways bergamot can be used to support health and well-being, but we’ve compiled what’s out there so far. Although not yet researched for fighting the bacteria that cause acne, Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes), bergamot has been tested for its antimicrobial power against Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus). Not to gross you out, but in one study, scientists found that bergamot inhibited the growth of staph introduced to fish samples3. The study showed that bergamot, thanks to its linalool content, has potential as a natural food preservative in fighting off food-borne illness. With bergamot’s bacterial-battling prowess, it may be a potential spot treatment for persistent acne with staph colonization4. In one small pilot 6study of 50 women, researchers found that patients exposed to bergamot essential oil in the waiting room of a mental health facility reported improved feelings of positivity6 when compared to a control group not exposed to the scent. And in a rat 7study, bergamot oil inhalation caused the rodents to exhibit less anxiety-related behavior7 in a maze by reducing their corticosterone response to stress. “Of all the beneficial chemicals (polyphenols) in bergamot, a rare combination of flavonoids seems to be the most powerful explanation for its cholesterol-lowering effects based on in vitro studies,” says Mawusi Arnett, M.D., MPH, a hospitalist physician at Northwestern. She adds this caveat: “We need more rigorous research in humans before we can recommend bergamot as a first-line replacement for currently validated statin medications.” For now, Arnett says that bergamot extract may be safe to use along with statins or other cholesterol meds, as long as people get the OK from their health care provider first. “Used in this capacity,” she adds, “bergamot may offer cholesterol improvement above and beyond the statin.” For stress or anxiety, use bergamot as aromatherapy by placing the oils in a diffuser. “As with all essential oils, diffuse aromas intermittently,” Sadowsky says. “Diffuse for 20-minute intervals in open rooms. Avoid diffusing around very young children, pets, and those with certain medical conditions. Discontinue use if the aroma seems irritating to people or pets.” If you’re using bergamot in food for that Earl Grey taste and scent, whether in ice cream, pastries, or a DIY tea, choose a bergapten-free, food-grade extract and use sparingly. An allergic reaction to any essential oil is possible. Check out our guide for using EOs safely. Watch for redness, hives, or other unusual symptoms. “Skin patch test a small area before application,” Sadowski recommends. “Discontinue use if irritations occur.” Bergamot essential oil, if it’s not bergapten-free or furocoumarin-free, can produce a phototoxic reaction when exposed to sunlight. Such a reaction may look like a rash or blistering from a sunburn and may leave permanent scars. Always check with your physician before using bergamot in any form, especially if you take medications. Do not use bergamot if you are pregnant or nursing. Bergamot essential oil, derived from the bergamot orange tree and known for its uplifting aroma in Earl Grey tea, has a host of potential health benefits. It may be able to help with skin conditions like acne, ease stress, reduce pain, and even improve cholesterol in conjunction with other medications. Research is still ongoing for these health and well-being boosts. But one thing we know just by nose: Bergamot has a gorgeous, citrusy scent. It makes a stunning DIY perfume, especially when you want a simple pick-me-up.
