Healthy Foods

7 Health Benefits of Bergamot

The history of bergamot dates back to ancient Greece. The first known garden of bergamot was in Calabria. Bergamot belongs to the citrus family and has a strong citrus flavor. It is a tropical fruit, primarily used as an essential oil and in cosmetics and deodorant industry. Bergamot benefits inspire many, making it a part of their daily life in every possible way.

Did You Know?

  • The high amounts of flavonoids contained in Bergamot fruit juice can help reduce serum intensities of lipids.
  • A 12-week continuous consumption of Bergamot aids lipid digestion and weight loss.

7 Impressive Benefits of Bergamot

Bergamot benefits are vast and well researched. The nutritional composition of bergamot makes it unique and useful for the following issues:

1. Reduces Depression

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According to a study(1), the properties of bergamot, such as limonene and alpha-pinene work as an antidepressant. It is stimulating in nature. The improved blood circulation enhances freshness and energy level when you are feeling low or depressed.

The hormonal impact of the essential oil present in bergamot can reduce mental and neurological complications.

[Also Read:  Cure Depression with Natural Remedies ]

2. Decreases Blood Sugar

Bergamot can trigger hormone secretion which can maintain a steady metabolic rate. It also helps the insulin, bile and digestive juice secretion. The breakdown of sugar, nutrient absorption, and proper digestion lowers the blood sugar.

3. Fights Infections

As per the few studies(2), bergamot essential oil benefits your health in many ways.  Few components of it bergamot make it an excellent disinfectant and antibiotic.

A 2007 research says, it can inhibit the fungal infection, germs growth and virus affects. It also helps to fight many types of infections. That is why it is so widely used in medicated and skin care soaps.

It is also useful for urinary tract, colon and intestine infections.

[Also Read: Apple Cider Vinegar for Yeast Infection]

4. Reduces Pain

Researchers(3) say bergamot essential oil can reduce the sensation of pain in the body. It stimulates certain hormones which decrease the feeling of pain. Thus, it is very useful in treating sprains, headaches, muscle aches.

You can avoid the dangerous and harmful side effects of sedative and pain killers by using bergamot.

5. Helps to Relax

Stress is an inevitable part of our hectic life. Bergamot can help us to feel a bit relaxed. The flavonoids in bergamot oil are excellent relaxants. They calm the nerves and decrease nervous strain, stress and anxiety.

The risk of insomnia, blood pressure, and depression reduces with it. It can also excite the activity of specific hormones like dopamine and serotonin, which prompts relaxation and drowsiness.

6. Improves Digestion

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Bergamot triggers essential oil and upturns discharges of enzymes, digestive acids, and bile, therefore aiding digestion. It also harmonizes and normalizes the correct motion of the intestines. It is capable of maintaining metabolism and the intestinal tract.

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If you are suffering from IBS, constipation, gastrointestinal issues then this oil can especially be helpful for you. It can keep your gut healthy and protect you from future food poisoning.

7. Nurtures Skin

According to studies, bergamot helps to keep our skin more youthful. The presence of cicatrizant in this essential oil can heal any marks on the skin. It also works on pigmentation and melanin related problems. It can treat acne, skin issues related to infection and bacteria and soothe the scars.

That is why bergamot is an essential part of many leading skin care brands,

In addition, Bergamot also fights intestinal worms which can cause severe malnutrition. That is why it is essential for growing children.

[ Read: Foods That Keep Your Skin Glowing]

How to Use Bergamot?

You can use bergamot in many ways. Check the recipes mentioned below.

Here is how you can use Bergamot in Oyster Mushroom Salad

What you need:

  • Lamb’s ear lettuce: Eight (rinsed and dried)
  • Walnuts: Twelve (chopped)
  • Bergamot orange: Juice of 1/2
  • Thinly sliced Apple: Apple
  • Cleaned and Chopped oyster mushroom without stem: 4 cups
  • Olive oil: 1-1 tbs
  • Cider Vinegar: One tbs
  • Salt and pepper to taste

How to do it:

  1. Mix bergamot juice with chopped apple and walnut and set aside.
  2. Heat the olive oil in a pan. Add the mushrooms and cook it in medium heat. After a few minutes add salt and pepper.
  3. Now in a bowl, mix olive oil, salt, and pepper with the lettuces in a salad bowl. Add the cooked mushroom and bergamot soaked apples.  Toss it and serve.

Enjoy the bergamot benefits deliciously and healthily.

Note: Bergamot oil blends well with Frankincense, Clary Sage, Mandarin, Black Pepper, Cypress, Jasmine, Sandalwood, Geranium, Nutmeg, Orange, Vetiver Rosemary, and Ylang-Ylang oil.

Cautions to Watch Out for While Using Bergamot

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Bergamot benefits are extensively recognized, but if you are just starting with it then you should take the following precautions:

  • Keep the bergamot oil away from sunlight. It can damage the nutritional benefits of the oil.
  • Start with small and moderate usages.
  • Talk to your doctor if you are under any specific medication.
  • You should give your kid the dosages of bergamot in a small amount.

Side Effects of Bergamot

Bergamot is more or less safe to use if you take it moderately. Bergamot benefits are for everyone, however, the below-mentioned categories do need a consultation:

  • Children: Bergamot oil should not be given to children in a large amount. It can be fatal.
  • Pregnancy: Pregnancy comes with a large number of precautions. Talk to your doctor before using bergamot.
  • Diabetes: Bergamot lowers blood sugar levels. But a drastic decrease in blood sugar level can be dangerous so do not forget to monitor your sugar level regularly.

Bergamot and its advantages are science-based and time tested. This natural healer can treat many major ailments and keep us healthy from the psychological aspects as well. The organic way of healing is always better than chemical usages and pills with harmful side effects.

If you are willing to get bergamot benefits, then there are ample of ways to include it in your daily life. You can use it in tea, in salads, in cookies or topically as an essential oil. It is readily available in local markets and online sites.