Bergamot (Bergaptene Free)
Citrus bergamia

Source: Peel
Origin: Italy
Energetics: Yin
Extraction Method: Cold Pressed
Scent: Bergamot has a refreshing, sweet, citrus aroma.
Blends Well With: Cypress, Sandalwood, Juniper Berry, Coriander, Black Pepper, Ginger, Clary Sage, Rosemary and Frankincense. 

About

Bergamot essential oil is said to help ease congestion and aid the battle with some infections. Facilitates digestive system maintenance. Helps to relieve depression, stress and anxiety. Is extremely refreshing and uplifting. Used for concentration and motivation. In skin care, it can be used for oily skin types. All those benefits without the phototoxicity when using bergaptene free bergamot.

This bergamot essential oil is non-phototoxic as it is furo/furano-coumarin free (FCF)

Historical Snippets

Bergamot Essential Oil was a very popular oil throughout Italy and other parts of Europe. This was due to its known antiseptic properties, ability to reduce fever and fragrance. This was up until 1972, when research emerged that the oil had phototoxic effects on the skin. Suddenly the demand for bergamot plummeted. A few years later a re-distillation process was developed to remove bergapten, which then made it safe to use in the sun. However, by this time synthetic fragrances were being adopted into the market. Bergamot oil had a wide variety of therapeutic uses, some of which included digestive disturbances, lung inflammation and antiseptic.

How To Use

Diffuse: Add a few drops to a diffuser to disperse around the room

Topically: Dilute essential oil with any carrier oil at a 2.5% ratio. This equates to 2.5ml essential oil/oils in total mixed with 100ml of chosen carrier oil. 1ml of essential oil is approximately 20-22 drops of oil.  Decant into a roller or glass bottle with eye dropper to apply easily or a larger bottle if using for massage. Please note this dilution rate is for adults and children over the age of 6. More information on children and essential oils is on our blog page. Essential Oils should not be used directly on the skin without mixing first with a carrier oil

Inhalation: Add 1-2 drops essential oil to a tissue and inhale at a distance while ensuring that the oil does not come into direct contact with the skin. Alternatively, you can smell the oil directly from the bottle.

Shelf Life 

Our freshly decanted Bergamot essential oil will last for 2-3 years minimum from when you open your amber glass bottle if stored correctly.

Primary Storage Considerations: Keep away from direct light (U.V. radiation). Keep in the amber glass bottle with lid tightly closed. Only open when you need to and decant into a smaller "working" amber glass bottle if possible (and label so you know what is in it). This is to reduce oxidation.
Secondary Storage Considerations: Keep in a refrigerator at around 4 degrees celsius.

Safety

General
Some essential oils may cause photosensitivity to the skin - Use diluted in Jojoba or other complete carrier oil.
Do not ingest essential oils.
Do not apply to eyes, sensitive areas or mucous membranes.
The information on this website is not intended to be used in the diagnosis, treatment or mitigation of any physical or mental illness. Ahimsa Oils offer no advice or recommendations only general information. No therapeutic claims are made within.
Pregnant women, nursing mothers and children should not use essential oils without first consulting an appropriately trained healthcare practitioner.

The statements on this website have not been evaluated by the TGA. David Bosley however worked for a long period in consultation with the TGA to ensure correct labelling with reference to the Ahimsa Oil product range.

Specific
Hazards: None known. This oil being bergatene free should not cause photosensitivity.
Cautions: Old or oxidized oils should be avoided. 
Because of its limonene content, oxidation of rectified bergamot oil should be avoided by storage in a dark, airtight container in a refrigerator. The addition of antioxidants to preparations containing it is recommended. 
For transportation purposes, this product is classed DG due to flash point of 51.6°C

References

Tisserand, R., & Young, R. (2014). Essential Oil Safety: Second edition.