At the southern tip of the Italian mainland, Calabria is renowned for its beautiful coastline and warm sunshine. There is a stretch of land approximately 120 kilometres in length that is one of the only places in the world where Bergamot trees grow heartily and bear the sweet tangy fruit, rich with desirable Bergamot essential oil.

The true origins of Bergamot are often disputed but it is believed to have first been used for its essential oil in Reggio, Calabria in the early 1700's. An 'eau de cologne' was produced by Gian Paolo Feminis and it is from this original scent development that the oil has become synonymous with many high quality perfume products. 

Genetics indicate that Bergamot, Citrus aurantium var. bergamia, was a natural hybrid of the Lemon and Bitter Orange citrus species. It is thought to have biologically mutated to form the distinct fruit bearing tree that offered different properties both in aroma and in flavour.

High temperatures, balanced humidity, measured rainfall and over 200 days of sunshine a year, are the secrets to the region's successful growth of the Bergamot tree. The distinct micro-climate in Reggio provides the ideal environment for the plant to prosper.

Being a hybrid species, the Bergamot does not naturally reproduce. In order to grow a new Bergamot tree, farmers must graft a branch from a parent tree to the live stump of a bitter orange tree. The bergamot branch slowly assimilates with the bitter orange and eventually grows to approximately two metres in height and four metres in width. 

Gentle white flowers, similar to orange blossoms, appear in late spring and early summer. They begin to form fruit in the height of the hot season and this fruit matures and continues to ripen until the winter harvest. 

Fruit is picked by hand and collected in crates for easy transportation. On average each tree produces approximately 40 to 50 kilograms of fruit that is processed for essential oil extraction.

Bergamot essential oil is extremely popular in many different applications. In perfumery, the Calabrian oil is often incorporated to impart a lovely delicate citrus note. World famous design houses such as Chanel, Dior and Shiseido have all utilised the scent to create best selling fragrances. 

In natural cosmetics, Bergamot can be included in cleansing products as it offers wonderful antiseptic properties and helps reduce oily skin conditions. In creams, lotions and body butters, not only does the oil provide a light refreshing aroma, but it also help improve skin tone and support healing.

It is also recognised for its deodorising properties and can be included in body scent sprays or soap formulations. It helps relieve emotional or nervous tension and the mildly sedating aromatherapeutic properties make it an ideal choice for relaxation massage or night time vaporising. 

We love Bergamot oil... it is an excellent inclusion to your essential oil range. If you have never experienced the liveliness it brings, then we invite you to try it today.