What Exactly Is Citrus Bergamot? From Earl Grey Tea to Modern Supplements

Citrus bergamot has a fascinating history. Best known as the flavoring in Earl Grey tea, this fruit is also prized for its essential oil in perfumes and aromatherapy. More recently, scientists have discovered unique compounds in citrus bergamot that support cholesterol and heart health, leading to its rise as a dietary supplement.

But what exactly is citrus bergamot, and how did it move from traditional uses to the shelves of supplement stores? Let’s explore its origins, history, and evolving role in wellness.

Quick Answer

Citrus bergamot (Citrus bergamia) is a small, fragrant citrus fruit native to Calabria, Italy. Traditionally used for perfumes, teas, and herbal remedies, its extract is now studied for health benefits such as cholesterol and metabolic support. Today, citrus bergamot is available in supplements, teas, and essential oils, each serving different purposes.

Botanical Background

• Scientific name: Citrus bergamia

• Family: Rutaceae (the citrus family)

• Appearance: A small, yellow-green fruit that resembles a cross between a lime and an orange.

• Region: Grown mainly in Calabria, Italy, which produces over 80% of the world’s supply.

  
  

Citrus bergamot is distinct from other citrus fruits because of its unique polyphenolic compounds, especially brutieridin and melitidin, which are not found in oranges, lemons, or limes.

Traditional Uses of Citrus Bergamot

1. Aromatherapy and Perfumery

For centuries, bergamot essential oil has been used in perfumes, thanks to its fresh, floral-citrus aroma. It remains a key ingredient in many fragrances today.

2. Herbal and Folk Remedies

In Mediterranean folk medicine, bergamot extracts were used for digestive health, skin care, and as a natural antiseptic.

3. Earl Grey Tea

Perhaps the most famous traditional use is as a flavoring for Earl Grey tea. Bergamot oil gives this tea its signature aroma and taste.

Modern Uses of Citrus Bergamot

1. Supplements

Standardized bergamot extract, known as bergamot polyphenolic fraction (BPF), is used in capsules and tablets. Research shows it may support cholesterol management, metabolic balance, and antioxidant activity.

2. Functional Beverages

Some teas and wellness drinks now include bergamot extract for added health appeal.

3. Essential Oils

Bergamot essential oil is still widely used for aromatherapy, skin care, and stress relief, though this is distinct from supplement use.

How It Differs from Bergamot in Tea or Oil

It’s important to distinguish between the forms of bergamot:

• Essential oil: Derived from the peel; used in fragrances and aromatherapy.

• Tea flavoring: Small amounts of oil are used for taste in Earl Grey tea.

• Supplement extract: Concentrated polyphenols from the fruit, not the oil, standardized for health benefits.

  
  

Only the polyphenolic extract has been studied for cholesterol and metabolic support—not the oil or tea flavoring.

Historical Significance in Calabria

Citrus bergamot is deeply tied to the culture of Calabria, Italy:

• First documented cultivation in the 18th century.

• Long considered the “green gold” of Calabria due to its economic value.

• Local producers pioneered the extraction of bergamot oil, creating a global trade.

Today, Calabrian bergamot remains the gold standard for supplements, with its unique soil and climate producing the highest concentration of active compounds.

Citrus bergamot is more than just a fragrant fruit. With deep roots in Mediterranean culture and modern recognition in scientific research, it bridges tradition and innovation.

From Earl Grey tea to dietary supplements, bergamot’s versatility continues to grow. For those interested in natural heart and metabolic health support, understanding its origins helps explain why it has become such a valued part of today’s wellness world.

FAQ

What is citrus bergamot?

A citrus fruit native to Calabria, Italy, used in perfumes, teas, and now supplements.

Is the bergamot in tea the same as in supplements?

No. Tea uses essential oil for flavor, while supplements use a standardized polyphenolic extract.

Why is Italian bergamot considered the best?

Because Calabria’s climate produces the highest quality fruit with unique polyphenolic compounds.

Can bergamot oil be used as a supplement?

No. Essential oil is for aromatherapy or skin use, not for cholesterol or metabolic health.

References

1. Mollace V, et al. Citrus Bergamot: From Calabrian Traditional Medicine to Clinical Use. Front Pharmacol. 2019.

2. Navarra M, et al. Phytochemistry and health benefits of Citrus bergamia. Phytother Res. 2015.

3. Mayo Clinic. Cholesterol management: Lifestyle and natural products.