Bergamot - Refreshing, cooling, uplifting, relaxing - is derived from a citrus fruit like a minature orange, which grows almost exclusively in Italy. The aroma will be familiar to many since it is this oil which gives Earl Grey tea its distinctive flavour, and bergamot is also a key ingredient in eau de cologne. The aroma of bergamot is sweet, fruity and slightly spicy, and its main feature is its uplifting quality, without being stimulating. This makes it marvellously cheering, refreshing and balancing, and it can help pave the way for a restful night. It is a strong antiseptic and a good support for the genito-urinary tract, and is often used for teenage skin. Most of all it is a great soothing oil for a Type-A personality. Bergamot essential oil is photosensitising, so use the distilled (furocumarin free) oil on your skin if you are planning to go out in direct sunlight. Normally expressed from the rind of the fruit, when the oil is distilled it is naturally free from furocumarins. It combines very well with most other oils, particularly Geranium, Lavender, Juniper, Neroli, Rosemary and Pine.