Citrus bergamia, the Bergamot orange (pronounced standard English: /ˈbɜːɡəˌmɒt/ or GenAm /ˈbɝɡəˌmɑt/), is a fragrant fruit the size of an orange, with a yellow colour similar to a lemon. Genetic research into the ancestral origins of extant citrus cultivars found bergamot orange to be a likely hybrid of Citrus limetta and Citrus aurantium.[2]
Bergamot essential oil
Citrus bergamot is commercially grown in southern Calabria (province of Reggio), southern Italy, where more than 80% are produced. It is also grown in southern France[3] and in Côte d'Ivoire for the essential oil and in Antalya in southern Turkey for its marmalade.[4] The fruit is not grown for juice consumption.[5] However, in Mauritius where it is grown on small scale basis, it is largely used for juice consumption by the locals.
The word bergamot is etymologically derived from bergomotta in Italian, originating from Bergamo, a town in Italy;[citation needed][original research?] earlier (1610) references exist indicating derivation from Turkish beg-armudi "prince's pear" or "prince of pears."[6]
Citrus bergamia is a small tree that blossoms during the winter. The juice tastes less sour than lemon, but more bitter than grapefruit. The distinctive aroma of bergamot is most commonly known for its use in Earl Grey tea.[7] The juice of the fruit has also been used in Calabrian indigenous medicine to treat malaria,[8] and its essential oil is popular in aromatherapy applications.