Family: Citrus
Note: Top
Our Concentration: 16%
Below you will find our offerings that allow you to experience the bergamot note in isolation. You can then use it to create your own custom perfume.
Smell It Here:
Miami Perfume & Cologne Making Workshop
Discovery Kit (March 2025)
Forest Bathing Kit (June 2025)
What is Bergamot?
Bergamot is a cornerstone of perfumery, celebrated for its bright and uplifting qualities. Known as the “sunny citrus” of the fragrance world, it brings a distinctive freshness and complexity to countless perfumes. But what exactly is bergamot, and why is it so widely cherished?
Bergamot is a citrus fruit (Citrus bergamia) that grows primarily in the Calabria region of southern Italy. It is similar in size to an orange but has a yellow-green rind resembling a lime. The essential oil extracted from the peel of the bergamot fruit is what makes it a prized ingredient in perfumery.
The scent of bergamot is fresh, zesty, and slightly sweet, with subtle floral and spicy undertones. Its versatile aroma blends seamlessly with other notes, making it an essential top note in many fragrances. Bergamot’s ability to brighten compositions and add depth has made it a favorite among perfumers.
Origin and History
Bergamot’s history is as rich as its fragrance. It is believed to have originated in Southeast Asia before finding its home in southern Italy. By the 16th century, bergamot essential oil became a key ingredient in the creation of Eau de Cologne, a light and refreshing fragrance that gained immense popularity in Europe.
Beyond perfumery, bergamot has been used in traditional medicine and culinary applications. It’s the star ingredient in Earl Grey tea, lending its distinct citrusy aroma to the blend. Its historical significance and wide-ranging applications only add to its enduring appeal.
Exoteric Properties
Scientific Insights on Bergamot
From a scientific standpoint, bergamot’s essential oil contains compounds like linalool, limonene, and linalyl acetate, which contribute to its mood-enhancing properties. Studies have shown that bergamot’s aroma can help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression by influencing the brain’s limbic system—the part responsible for emotions.
In aromatherapy, bergamot is often used for its calming and uplifting effects. Its citrusy freshness can invigorate the senses while simultaneously promoting relaxation. Some studies also suggest that bergamot oil has antimicrobial properties, adding to its reputation as a multifaceted natural remedy.
Esoteric Properties
Bergamot and Spiritual Energy
In the realm of esotericism, bergamot is considered a symbol of light and renewal. Its vibrant aroma is said to cleanse negative energy and uplift the spirit, making it a popular choice for meditation and spiritual practices.
Energetically, bergamot is associated with the solar plexus chakra, which governs self-confidence and personal power. It is believed to instill clarity, joy, and optimism, helping individuals overcome emotional blockages and embrace positivity. Some practitioners also use bergamot oil in energy-clearing rituals, enhancing its reputation as a “brightener” of the spirit.
Chemistry of Bergamot
Natural vs. Synthetic Bergamot
The chemical composition of natural bergamot essential oil includes a mix of terpenes, esters, and alcohols. Linalool and linalyl acetate are responsible for its floral sweetness, while limonene contributes to its citrusy zest.
However, natural bergamot oil contains bergapten, a compound that can cause photosensitivity. To address this, a version called bergapten-free bergamot oil is often used in cosmetics and perfumes. Synthetic alternatives also exist, designed to replicate bergamot’s aroma without the risk of photosensitivity. While synthetics provide a cost-effective option, they often lack the complexity of natural bergamot oil.
Famous Fragrances Featuring Bergamot
Men’s Fragrances
- Creed Aventus
- Dior Sauvage
- Jockey Club Caswell Massey
Women’s Fragrances
- My Way by Giorgio Armani
- Arielle Shoshana's Monday
- Amazing Grace Bergamot by Philosophy
Unisex Fragrances
- Jo Malone London Lime Basil & Mandarin
- Tom Ford Neroli Portofino
- Le Labo's Bergamote 22
Bergamot remains an indispensable element in perfumery, beloved for its versatility and uplifting character. Whether appreciated for its historical significance, therapeutic benefits, or spiritual resonance, it continues to shine as a cornerstone of modern fragrance creation.
Our Bergamot fragrance contains the following essential oils: Bergamot.