Benefits of Bergamot Oil

Bergamot oil is claimed to help treat several conditions, such as anxiety and depression (when used as aromatherapy). Other benefits of bergamot oil may include treating certain skin conditions, such as psoriasis and vitiligo (when applied to the skin). Although there are supposedly several bergamot oil benefits, the oil can also cause serious side effects when applied to the skin or consumed in large amounts.

 

What Are the Benefits of Bergamot Oil?

Bergamot oil (an essential oil from the peel of bergamot, a citrus fruit) is used as a scent and flavoring agent. It is also used to treat the following conditions:
 
  • Psoriasis, a skin condition (when applied to the skin and combined with light therapy)
  • Vitiligo, a skin condition (when applied to the skin)
  • Anxiety (when used as aromatherapy)
  • Depression (when used as aromatherapy).
     
There is little scientific evidence that bergamot oil is beneficial for most uses (see Does Bergamot Oil Work? for more information). As with many alternative and complementary therapies, claims for bergamot oil benefits are sometimes exaggerated, and such claims must be evaluated critically.
 
It should be noted that bergamot oil can cause side effects (sometimes severe) when applied directly to the skin (see Bergamot Oil Side Effects for more information). Do not apply bergamot oil to the skin without the approval and supervision of your healthcare provider.
 

How Does Bergamot Oil Work?

It is not known how bergamot oil may work to treat anxiety, depression, or any skin condition.
 

Bergamot Oil Use in Children

Check with your child's healthcare provider before giving your child bergamot oil. There have been reports of serious problems (including intestinal problems, seizures, or even death) after the consumption of large amounts of bergamot oil in children.
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;