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Aqua Oleum Bergamont Essential Oil 10ml
The essential oil is produced by cold expression of the peel of the still
green fruits. On average it takes 200 kg of the whole fruit to produce 1 kg of
Bergamot oil, with its characteristic fresh, fruity sweet odour.
For many years Italy and Sicily were the only producers of this oil. More
recently the Ivory Coast has become a more prominent producer. Although it is
difficult to get true figures from either source, it is common knowledge that
the Ivory Coast will ultimately be the largest producer, if that is not already
the case. An additional advantage is the cost difference between the two
sources, with the Ivory Coast material being somewhat cheaper than the Italian
counterpart. We have also found new sources in Zimbabwe and, to an extent, South
Africa, which are in the early stages of development and should be on-stream
within 3-5 years.
In the essential oil markets the Ivory Coast oil is often passed off as
Italian sourced oil at the higher price, but there are subtle differences in the
two origins. The linalool and limonene contents are somewhat higher in the Ivory
Coast oil, while trace elements like rho-cymene and alpha-pinene are higher in
the Italian oil.
Much has been said about the bergaptene content in citrus oils, and in
particular Bergamot Oil. Some argue that by taking out a constituent, you are
potentially affecting the therapeutic properties of the oil. On the other hand,
if we knowingly retain an ingredient that will have negative reactions, we place
ourselves in a difficult position.
Certain suntan products contain citrus oils in order to promote tanning or
enhance their fragrance. These oils contain coumarins that may have a phototoxic
effect. Probably the best know of these is 4-methoxyfuro(3,2-G)chromen-7-one (bergaptene),
also commonly known as 5-methoxypsoralen(5-MOP), which has reached levels of
0.7% in Bergamot Oil. Marzulli and Maibach, in a detailed study of the
phototoxicity of Bergamot Oil, concluded that Berlock Dermatitis, a condition
similar to acute sunburn, can be caused by the application of products
containing bergaptene and exposure to sunlight.
We have seen no documented proof that neat Bergamot Oil performs better than
FCF Oil. Until such time as this is proven, we are morally obliged to offer the
safer alternative.
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