Bergamot oil is pressed from the fresh peel of the fruit. The fruit is midway between bitter orange and lemon as it emerged from the crossing of the two. One hundred kilogrammes of bergamot yields half a kilogramme of oil. Bergamot essential oil may feel familiar: it also gives Earl Grey its fresh citrus aroma.

It has a citrusy, sweet and fruity scent with spicy notes.

It mixes well with cypress, muscat sage, ylang ylang, sweet orange and tangerine essential oils.

Warning: Bergamot oil contains bergapten which can lead to increased sun sensitivity. Avoid sunbathing or tanning within 12 hours of using Bergamot essential oil. It can cause allergic reactions in those who are intolerant to it.