Bergamot oil is an essential oil that is used for a variety of different purposes. In addition to its use as a flavoring agent (in foods and beverages) and as a scent in various products, bergamot oil is sometimes claimed to work for 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).
Bergamot Oil and Scientific Evidence
One small study has suggested that bergamot oil (when combined with UV light therapy) may work for
psoriasis treatment. However, much more research is necessary before bergamot oil could be recommended for this use, especially because it can be very irritating when applied to the skin.
There is no reliable scientific evidence (such as clinical studies) to suggest that bergamot oil works for other uses. However, this does not mean that bergamot oil does not work; it simply means that there is currently no proof that it does work. Some people (including most healthcare providers) feel that it is appropriate to take only medications and supplements that have been scientifically demonstrated to be beneficial (and safe); other people, however, are comfortable experimenting with unproven treatments. Whether or not you decide to take bergamot oil will largely depend on your willingness to try an unproven treatment that has not been shown to work.
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