It is said Christopher Columbus brought this small tree from the Caribbean to Spain, where it eventually made its way to Bergamo, Italy in the fifteenth century. It was here the essential oil was first distilled from the rinds of the fruit, whereupon the tree became so popular that the tree was eventually named after the town.
The scent of bergamot is believed to increase confidence and help people overcome shyness. The rind of the bergamot fruit is what gives Earl Grey tea its distinctive flavor and aroma. It is also a popular ingredient in scents, with about one half of all perfume, and one third of all cologne, contains bergamot oil.
Fragrance Family: fruitaceous
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