Bergamot Oil
[CAS# 8007-75-8]

Identification

• Classification: Food additive >> Food spice >> Natural spice additives
• Name: Bergamot Oil
• CAS Registry Number: 8007-75-8
• EC Number: 616-915-9
• FEMA: 2153

Properties

• Density: 0.877 g/mL (25 °C)
• Boiling point: 159 °C
• Refractive index: 1.4665
• Flash point: 56 °C (closed cup)

Safety Data

• Hazard Symbols: GHS02;GHS08;GHS07 Danger
• Risk Statements: H226-H304-H315
• Safety Statements: P210-P233-P240-P301+P310-P303+P361+P353-P331

Hazard Classification

Hazard	Class	Category Code	Hazard Statement
Flammable liquids	Flam. Liq.	3	H226
Aspiration hazard	Asp. Tox.	1	H304
Skin irritation	Skin Irrit.	2	H315
Skin sensitization	Skin Sens.	1	H317
Chronic hazardous to the aquatic environment	Aquatic Chronic	1	H410
Acute hazardous to the aquatic environment	Aquatic Acute	1	H400
Eye irritation	Eye Irrit.	2	H319
Chronic hazardous to the aquatic environment	Aquatic Chronic	3	H412
Reproductive toxicity	Repr.	2	H361
Chronic hazardous to the aquatic environment	Aquatic Chronic	2	H411

Discovery and Applications

Bergamot oil is an essential oil obtained from the cold pressing of the rind of *Citrus bergamia*, a citrus fruit primarily cultivated in the Calabria region of Italy. The extraction and use of bergamot oil date back several centuries, with historical records indicating its presence in perfumery and traditional medicine. The chemical composition of bergamot oil has been extensively studied, revealing that it contains monoterpenes such as limonene, linalool, and linalyl acetate, which contribute to its characteristic aroma and functional properties.

Bergamot oil has been widely used in the fragrance industry as a key ingredient in perfumes and colognes. It is known for its fresh, citrusy, and slightly floral scent, which enhances fragrance compositions and acts as a top note in many formulations. The oil has also been incorporated into scented personal care products, including soaps, lotions, and deodorants. Its stability and performance in fragrance formulations have been well-documented, leading to its continued use in perfumery.

In the food and beverage industry, bergamot oil is used as a flavoring agent, most notably in the production of Earl Grey tea. The oil imparts a distinct citrus aroma and taste to the tea, contributing to its widely recognized sensory profile. Additionally, bergamot oil has been applied in confectionery and flavored beverages, where its essential oil components provide a natural citrus essence. Food-grade bergamot oil undergoes specific processing to meet regulatory standards for safe consumption.

Bergamot oil has also been used in cosmetic formulations due to its aromatic properties and solubility in various carrier oils. It has been included in skincare products, massage oils, and hair care formulations. The oil’s photoreactive components, such as bergapten, have been identified through chemical analysis, leading to modifications in formulations to reduce potential photosensitivity effects when exposed to sunlight.

Industrial applications of bergamot oil extend to its use as a fragrance enhancer in cleaning products and air fresheners. Its pleasant scent and volatility make it a preferred choice for use in household and commercial cleaning formulations. The oil’s solubility characteristics allow for effective blending with other fragrance components in industrial applications.

The well-established uses of bergamot oil across multiple industries demonstrate its significance as a natural essential oil with diverse applications. Standardized extraction, processing, and formulation techniques ensure its continued use in commercial products, maintaining quality and consistency in various applications.

References

none