{"id":129,"date":"2016-02-17T11:53:37","date_gmt":"2016-02-17T11:53:37","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/gaia.eviemcrae.com\/?p=129"},"modified":"2019-11-17T23:32:25","modified_gmt":"2019-11-17T12:32:25","slug":"lemon-aid","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/lightmygaia.com\/?p=129","title":{"rendered":"Bergamot boost"},"content":{"rendered":"\t\t
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If life\u2019s a bit of an effort at the moment, Gaia’s Light may just be able to help inject some zest into your life. Shake off winter\u2019s clutches once and for all with nature\u2019s instant pick-me-up.<\/p>

Italian folk medicine harnessed the healing powers of this inedible citrus fruit hundreds of years before anyone else was even aware of its existence. Bergamot takes its name from the Italian village where it was traditionally used for alleviating intestinal problems and reducing fevers.<\/p>

The fruit, which looks like a cross between an orange and a lemon, is characterised by its wonderfully exhilarating citrus scent. Indeed its aroma was enjoyed to such an extent that the oil, extracted from the peel of the fruit, became an important ingredient in the development of Eau de Cologne.<\/p>

The plant is probably best known for its uplifting properties and appears to ease depression, stress, grief, worry or an anxious state of mind. As such it lends itself to a variety of \u2018cosmetic\u2019 uses such as an air purifier, or a relaxing massage oil. Its antiseptic and anti-viral properties are an added benefit which may protect against airborne bacteria.<\/p>

Home<\/strong>\u00a0<\/strong>sweet<\/strong>\u00a0<\/strong>home<\/span><\/strong><\/span>
Mix four drops of bergamot with one drop of juniper, neroli and camomile and add to an oil burner, prefilled with water. It\u2019s an ideal way to kick start the day and it also puts visitors at their ease.<\/p>

Massage<\/strong><\/span>
Mix two drops of bergamot, one drop of lemon and 20 drops of prediluted neroli to 10mls of grapeseed oil or a similar light carrier oil. Blend together well before massaging into the skin. Rosemary and Petitgrain can also be used to remedy stress, tension or aching muscles.<\/p>

Skincare<\/strong>\u00a0<\/strong>routin<\/strong>e<\/strong><\/span>
The antiseptic properties of the fruit make it highly effective in the treatment of acne and other skin problems. Simply stroke the face to stimulate the circulation and the lymphatic flow, but remember, never use essential oils undiluted on the skin.<\/p>

Medicinal<\/strong>\u00a0<\/strong>uses<\/strong><\/span>
Abscess, acne, asthma, boils, chickenpox, depression, cold sores, menopausal problems, psoriasis, shingles, stress, urinary problems, antiseptic, wound healing, digestive tonic, immune stimulant, astringent, stimulative, helps combat oily skin<\/p>

The<\/strong>\u00a0<\/strong>beauty<\/strong>\u00a0<\/strong>of<\/strong>\u00a0<\/strong>bergamot<\/strong><\/span><\/p>