Bergamot mint essential oil is steam distilled from Mentha citrata, and it is sometimes referred to as orange mint or Eau de Cologne mint. This leafy herb is part of the mint family, with no relation to the bergamot citrus. Like other mint oils it is uplifting and energetic, and due to the constituent balance is also quite calming for the mind.
This oil is pleasantly fresh for diffusing, bright perfume blends, body care recipes, and aroma sprays. The fresh plant closely resembles Mentha aquatica, or water mint, and has purple tinged leaves with dainty purple flowers.
Aroma
Distinctly minty and sweet with refreshing notes of citrus.
Constituents
This oil is predominately composed of linalool and linalyl acetate, with β-caryophyllene, α-terpineol, and β-pinene making up less than 3% each. This oil typically has less than 1% menthol content, compared to most peppermint oils containing 30% or more menthol in their oils.
Blending and Uses
Uplifting bergamot mint is an excellent oil for perfumes and colognes. It blends very well with lavender oils as they tend to have complimentary constituent balances. Use with citrus oils such as sweet orange or lime, or woods-like oils of cedar and pine.
For a calming experience in massage oils and diffusers blend this oil with clary sage, sandalwood, and ylang ylang. Bergamot mint is also attributed to healthy sensuality and closeness, and can be combined with related oils like geranium or palmarosa.
Bergamot mint can be used as a single aroma, or with any of these blends in your favorite cosmetics such as lotion, deodorant, shampoo, or lip balm. Add to carrier oils for a gentle abdominal massage blend for occasional digestive upset.
Packaging
1/2 oz. and 1 oz. essential oils are packaged in amber glass bottles with drop reducers for easy application. Larger sizes are packaged in amber screw cap bottles and do not come with reducers or droppers.
Safety
This oil has no known precautions. Never use essential oils undiluted, in eyes or mucus membranes. Do not take internally unless working with a qualified healthcare practitioner. Keep away from children and pets.
Before using perform a small patch test on your inner forearm or back. Apply a small quantity of diluted essential oil and cover with a bandage. If you experience any irritation use carrier oil or cream to further dilute the essential oil, and then wash with soap and water. If no irritation occurs after 48 hours it is safe to use on your skin. Learn more about using essential oils here.
