Bergamot Health Benefits: Cholesterol, Inflammation, Liver and More

Bergamot benefits go beyond its natural aromatic zesty flavor. The citrus plant best known for adding its zesty tang to Earl gray tea, is a powerful antioxidant and herbal remedy. 

The Mediterranean native plant has been used for centuries in natural medicine. Today, research has shown surprising promise in the use of bergamot for promoting better health including lowering cholesterol, reducing inflammation, and supporting a healthy liver. 

Curious about bergamot benefits and why it may be a welcome addition to your wellness routine? Keep reading to learn more. 

Brief History of Bergamot 

The story of bergamot takes root in the landscapes of Southern Italy, where the fruit flourishes in the sun-drenched Calabrian fields. Historically, bergamot has been a staple in both the culinary and medicinal arenas. 

It’s commonly used as an essential oil in aromatherapy for its soothing, citrusy aroma. Historically bergamot has been praised for its antiseptic and skin-healing properties. Today, science can back those claims and may have discovered more bergamot benefits than previously known. 

Bergamot Benefits in Lowering Cholesterol

Heart health is essential to a long, healthy life. High cholesterol is one of the biggest risk factors for heart disease. 

Studies show that bergamot benefits the heart by lowering cholesterol. The rind of this citrus fruit is rich in compounds known as flavonoids, particularly one potent group called "bergamot polyphenolic fraction" (BPF). 

Research has shown that BPF can significantly lower LDL cholesterol, the 'bad' cholesterol that clogs arteries, while also boosting HDL cholesterol, the kind that resists artery blockages. Studies have demonstrated reductions in both total cholesterol and triglycerides, painting bergamot as a holistic cholesterol modulator.

Bergamot's Benefits for Reducing Inflammation

Inflammation is a necessary part of the healing process, but chronic inflammation can cause dire consequences. Inflammation can spread throughout the body, leading to conditions such as arthritis and even heart disease. 

Anti-inflammatories are compounds that neutralize free radicals, which are the source of inflammation. Bergamot is a natural anti-inflammatory that acts as a potent ally against inflammation, providing a natural defense against the body's inflammatory response.

Bergamot for Arthritis and Heart Health

Arthritis is a condition characterized by painful joint inflammation, and bergamot's anti-inflammatory properties could offer relief to sufferers. Similarly, heart health can benefit from bergamot's ability to reduce systemic inflammation, a key player in the development and progression of cardiovascular diseases.

Bergamot and Liver Health

The liver is crucial for detoxification and metabolic processes. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a potentially fatal condition that is on the rise in the Western world. 

The liver detoxifies various metabolites and synthesizes proteins that regulate blood clotting, among other functions, making its health pivotal for overall well-being. 

Liver Function and Detoxification

Bergamot benefits have shown promise in supporting liver function, according to recent studies. One study reported that participants who consumed bergamot extract experienced a significant reduction in NAFLD after just 12 weeks, suggesting a protective effect on liver tissue. 

Further research is warranted to substantiate these findings, but the initial signals are encouraging for individuals on the path to liver health.

Where Can You Find Bergacyn FF?

Bergacyn FF is a patented liver health formula composed of both bergamot and cynara (artichoke leaf) extracts. Studies show that the two extracts produce a synergistic effect on liver health and may produce greater liver health benefits when used together than when either is used alone.* 

Bergacyn FF can be found in supplement form and taken daily to support your liver.* Additionally, supplements like The Daily Liver Vitamin, contain Bergacyn FF as well as multiple other ingredients studied for their effects on detoxing and promoting liver health.* 

Other Health Benefits of Bergamot

Bergamot benefits may go beyond cholesterol management or anti-inflammatory potential. It harbors an arsenal of antioxidants, which can combat the oxidative stress that underlies numerous diseases. 

Furthermore, compounds within bergamot are being investigated for their potential in managing weight, by encouraging a healthy lipid profile.

Bergamot benefits may also include reducing stress, fighting food poisoning, and supporting hair and skin health. 

How to Incorporate Bergamot into Your Wellness Routine

Bergamot can be used in many different settings including for culinary use in food or teas, as an essential oil for hair and skin, in a diffuser for aromatherapy, or even taken as a supplement. 

Consider adding bergamot into your wellness routine for improved health, reduced stress, and even possible weight loss. Be sure to purchase your bergamot products from trusted sources, especially if purchasing bergamot supplements for oral use. 

Potential Side Effects and Considerations

Bergamot in high concentrations, particularly used topically in its essential oil form, can be phototoxic, meaning it can cause skin sensitivity when exposed to UV light. 

Therefore, responsible use and dilution are critical when incorporating bergamot essential oil into your skincare or aromatherapy practices. For best results, test a small patch of skin with your bergamot oil and wait 30 minutes to an hour before putting your bergamot oil elsewhere on your skin. 

When taking bergamot extract as a supplement, be sure to take only the suggested daily dose. Also, talk to your doctor before adding bergamot to your supplement regime as it may interact with the medications you are currently taking. 

Bergamot Benefits – The Takeaway

Bergamot benefits have a wide range from supporting liver health, to reducing inflammation, possibly inducing weight loss, and serving as a relaxing aromatherapy agent. 

Consider adding bergamot to your wellness routine if you are looking for a natural way to bolster your health and possibly prevent disease.*

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.