Bergamot is a yellow-green citrus fruit that is native to southern Italy. This fruit has traditionally been used to flavor food and add scent to perfumes. It has also historically been used to treat wounds, bacterial infections, and toothaches. Recent research has investigated additional health benefits of bergamot, ranging from protecting the heart to improving mental health. Keep reading to find out how taking bergamot supplements may be beneficial to your health.
1. Lower Cholesterol
One of the most well-researched benefits of taking bergamot is its effect on cholesterol. Several studies suggest that taking daily supplements of bergamot may help reduce total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, and triglycerides while increasing high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, or “good” cholesterol. This means bergamot has the potential to be an effective supplement to cholesterol drugs. Reducing bad cholesterol and triglycerides can help lower your risk of cardiovascular disease.
2. Manage Blood Sugar
Multiple studies have investigated the effects of bergamot supplements on blood glucose (blood sugar) levels in individuals with metabolic syndrome. A 2019 study on people with type 2 diabetes and hyperlipidemia found that those who took a bergamot supplement showed a considerable reduction in fasting blood sugar, LDL cholesterol, and triglycerides and an increase in HDL cholesterol. This means bergamot could be a beneficial supplement to diabetes treatments.
3. Relieve Mental Health Symptoms
Depression and anxiety are mental health issues that are becoming increasingly common. Studies have shown that a bergamot aromatherapy blend may help alleviate symptoms of depression, especially in older adults, women at high risk of postpartum depression, and individuals with terminal cancer. A study on healthy, young adult females suggested that breathing in bergamot vapor helped to improve mood, decrease fatigue, and reduce levels of cortisol. Another study in 2020 performed on patients prior to surgery found that those who inhaled bergamot essence experienced lower anxiety levels. The relaxing effects of bergamot have also been used to treat insomnia.
4. Reduce Inflammation
Another benefit of taking bergamot is that it may help reduce inflammation in the body. Bergamot has been found to possess anti-inflammatory properties. A study on mice showed fewer markers of inflammation after they received a daily dose of bergamot. Based on this, researchers believe bergamot’s anti-inflammatory properties might be beneficial for treating conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease as well as maintaining inflammatory balance. However, there is not enough evidence to claim this for certain. Scientists have also found that bergamot may protect the joints in people taking aromatase inhibitors during cancer treatment, which can provide relief from joint pain.
Shop for Bergamot at Apothecary & Co
These are some of the largest potential benefits that bergamot could have on your health. Bergamot supplements are most commonly used to optimize cardiovascular health and manage cholesterol levels. Bergamot works at the level of the liver to help maintain and support healthy cholesterol levels and preserve coronary arteries by maintaining normal inflammatory balance. If you’re interested in trying it for yourself, order a bottle of Bergamot by Apothecary & Co today!
If you have any questions about taking bergamot or you’d like to learn more about treating your health concerns holistically, please reach out to us and our caring pharmacy team will be happy to help!
