Bergamot Oil

Bergamot oil is derived from a citrus fruit that is mainly grown in Italy. This oil is typically used as a flavoring agent in foods and beverages. Bergamot oil is also claimed to treat skin conditions (such as psoriasis or vitiligo), anxiety, and depression. Preliminary research indicates that bergamot oil may be effective for treating psoriasis in conjunction with UV light therapy; however, there is insufficient evidence that bergamot oil works for other conditions.

 

What Is Bergamot Oil?

Bergamot oil is obtained from the peel of the bergamot, a citrus fruit grown mainly in Italy. The oil is used as a flavoring agent in foods and beverages and in various cosmetic products (for its citrus scent). It is also used to treat skin conditions, such as psoriasis or vitiligo (when applied to the skin), or to treat anxiety or depression (when used as aromatherapy).
 
(Click Benefits of Bergamot Oil for more information on what bergamot oil is used for, including additional  uses.)
 

How Does Bergamot Oil Work?

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

Is Bergamot Oil Effective?

Early evidence suggests that bergamot oil (when used in combination with UV light therapy) may be effective for psoriasis treatment. There is not enough evidence to rate the effectiveness of bergamot oil for any other purpose.
 
(Click Does Bergamot Oil Work? for more information.)
 

Bergamot Oil Dosing Information

A standard bergamot oil "dose" has not been established for any use.
 
(Click Bergamot Oil Dosage for more information.)
 

Side Effects of Bergamot Oil

When applied to the skin, bergamot oil can cause irritation and sensitivity to the sun. It is not known what side effects (if any) to expect from other types of uses of bergamot oil.
 
(Click Bergamot Oil Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects that you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
 

Drug Interactions With Bergamot Oil

It is not known if bergamot oil interacts with any medications (see Bergamot Oil Drug Interactions).
 

Is Bergamot Oil Safe?

Bergamot oil (when used in normal amounts in food as a flavoring agent) is generally recognized to be safe. However, some people are more likely than others to experience problems due to bergamot oil. Therefore, you should talk with your healthcare provider before taking bergamot oil if you:
 
Make sure to tell your healthcare provider about any other medications you are taking, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
 
(Click Bergamot Oil Safety for more information, including any available bergamot oil warnings and precautions.)
 

What If I Take a Bergamot Oil Overdose?

It is not known what exactly to expect from a bergamot oil overdose (or even if an overdose is possible). If you think you may have taken too much bergamot oil, seek immediate medical attention.
 
(Click Bergamot Oil Overdose for more information.)
 

Bergamot Oil: Storage Methods

Refer to the label of your individual bergamot oil product for information on how best to store bergamot oil. Keep bergamot oil out of the reach of children.
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;