BERGAMOT MINT ESSENTIAL OIL

Basic

Plant/History

Uses

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Safety

About the Plant

Mentha x piperita citrata is commonly called Eau de Cologne Mint, Bergamot Mint, Orange Mint, horsemint, Lemon Mint, Lime Mint, Pineappe Mint, Su Nanesi, Water Mint and Watermundt, from the family Labiatae. It is a perennial herb with hermaphrodite scented flowers pollinated by insects. It is noted for attracting wildlife. It is cultivated in most all soils, preferring a acid, neutral and basic soil. Can grow in semi-shade or no shade, and requires moisture. Wild habitats are woodland, dappled shade or shady edges.

The whole plant is smooth, dotted with yellow glands and is of a dark green colour, generally tinged with purple, especially the margins of the leaves, which are finely toothed. There are very conspicuous lines of yellow glands on the purple calyx.

History

Herbal uses of tea made from fresh or dried leaves has been used traditionally for stomach aches, nausea, parasites and other digestive disorders. For upset stomach and nervous stomach, fevers and headaches. Traditionally used as an insect repellent and strewing herb. Rats and mice intensely dislike the odor and it was used spread in granaries to repel rodents.

Aromatherapy: It can add a nice bright note to a diffuser blend. Traditional medicinal uses are more akin to lavender than the mints, however, there is little aromatherapy research to date.

Perfumery: Arctander says that M. citrata presents a certain Bergamot note without the Citrus notes, thus making it more interesting in lavender-fougere compositions.

Flavoring: It is necessary to remove the monoterpenes from M. citrata prior to use in flavors and has failed to thrive in the food and flavor industry.

*Although no specific mention has been seen for this sub-species, it should be noted that, in large quantities, the closely allied M. x piperita vulgaris can cause abortions, especially when used in the form of the extracted essential oil, so it should not be used by pregnant women. The essential oil is quite toxic in large doses.

The information provided on these pages is not a substitute for necessary medical care, nor intended as medical advice. Always keep aromatic extracts tightly closed and in a cool, dark place, out of reach of children. Never ingest aromatic extracts. Always dilute aromatic extracts when applying topically and avoid areas around eyes or mucous membranes. If redness or irritation occurs, stop using immediately and contact your health provider if necessary.