Bergamot (Citrus bergamia) – natural support for your lipid profile

What exactly is bergamot, and why have extracts from this citrus fruit been attracting the attention of researchers specialising in lipid metabolism for over a decade? Find out what the available research says, what unique bioactive compounds this fruit contains, and how to approach supplementation sensibly.

Common bergamot (Citrus bergamia Risso et Poiteau) is a citrus fruit grown almost exclusively in a narrow strip along the Ionian coast of Calabria, Italy – it is here, thanks to specific climatic and soil conditions, that bergamot achieves a phytochemical composition not found in other citrus fruits. The fruit is widely known as an ingredient in traditional Earl Grey tea and perfume blends – but this represents a completely different range of uses to that of modern supplements. Over the last two decades, bergamot has been the subject of a growing number of scientific studies focusing on its potential impact on metabolic parameters, including the lipid profile. This research represents a promising avenue, although its findings – as with any plant falling into the category of botanical extracts – have not yet met the rigorous criteria of the European Food Safety Authority for the approval of specific health claims. In our communication about bergamot, we therefore focus on its botanical and phytochemical description and the research context, whilst exercising appropriate caution.

Bergamot – botany and origin

Bergamot is a species of the Rutaceae family, considered to be a hybrid of bitter orange (Citrus aurantium) and lemon or lime – its exact botanical classification has been the subject of debate amongst botanists. The fruit has a greenish-yellow peel with an intense, distinctive aroma, whilst the flesh is sour and bitter – which is why bergamot is rarely eaten raw as a dessert fruit.

Virtually the entire world’s bergamot production comes from southern Calabria, where the plant has found ideal climatic conditions. It is said that it is precisely the combination of the coastal climate, the specific soil and the local cultivation tradition that gives bergamot its unique phytochemical profile. Traditionally, bergamot has been used mainly for the production of essential oil (from the peel) and juice – in the perfume and culinary industries and, to a lesser extent, in local herbal traditions.

Unique phytochemical profile – bergamot flavonoids

From a scientific point of view, the most significant feature of bergamot is its content of specific flavonoids, which occur in other citrus fruits in much lower concentrations or in slightly different proportions. The most characteristic of bergamot are:

Bruteridine and melitidine – two flavonoids found in bergamot in exceptionally high concentrations. It is these that distinguish this plant from other citrus fruits, and they are the main focus of scientific research into bergamot extracts.

Naringin, neohesperidin and neoeriocitrin – flavonoids also present in other citrus fruits (mainly grapefruit and bitter orange), but found in high proportions in bergamot.

Standardised bergamot extracts – such as those found in supplements – are usually standardised for total polyphenol content or for specific levels of bruteridine and melitidine. The value of a particular supplement depends significantly on the standardisation method – non-standardised powdered fruit has a different activity profile to the precisely standardised extracts used in clinical trials.

What the research on bergamot extracts says

Most contemporary research on bergamot focuses on its potential impact on metabolic parameters – primarily on the lipid profile and selected markers of carbohydrate metabolism. The clinical trials appearing in the literature were conducted mainly in Italy, on groups of patients with moderate lipid disorders, lasting from a few weeks to several months.

Some of the available clinical studies observed potentially beneficial changes in selected lipid parameters in participants taking standardised bergamot extracts. Other studies did not unequivocally confirm these observations or showed changes of limited clinical significance. This is a typical picture in early research on plant extracts – the findings are promising but require verification in larger, better-controlled clinical trials.

From a European perspective, Citrus bergamia has no health claims authorised by EFSA – the scientific data did not meet the rigorous criteria required for the authorisation of specific claims. This is an important distinction: it does not mean that bergamot extracts ‘do not work’ – it means that the available data are insufficient for EFSA to formulate an approved health claim. It is important not to use phrases such as ‘bergamot lowers cholesterol’, ‘bergamot reduces triglycerides’ or ‘bergamot treats hyperlipidaemia’ when communicating about bergamot – such claims go beyond the current state of approved knowledge.

The scientific basis – Omega-3 fatty acids with authorised claims

When discussing lipid metabolism and heart health, it is worth highlighting ingredients with robust scientific evidence and specific EFSA-authorised claims. These form the scientific foundation for heart health – and they are the first choice when planning a daily supplementation regimen.

EPA and DHA contribute to the normal functioning of the heart (at 250 mg EPA+DHA per day). They also contribute to the maintenance of normal blood pressure (at 3 g EPA+DHA per day) and to the maintenance of normal blood triglyceride levels (at 2 g EPA+DHA per day). These are EFSA-approved claims – based on rigorous scientific analysis and documentation covering thousands of clinical trials.

Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) contributes to the maintenance of normal blood cholesterol levels (at 2 g of ALA per day). ALA is found in vegetable oils – linseed oil, rapeseed oil and walnut oil.

These claims are based on concrete, scientifically documented evidence. They are not promises – they are statements of physiological functions approved by the European regulatory authority following many years of analysis of the evidence. You can find out more about the role of omega-3 fatty acids in the article Omega-3 – what you need to know about this golden dietary ingredient and in the report on Norwegian fish oil.

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Bergamot as a supplement to the Mediterranean diet

Bergamot originates from southern Italy – a region where the Mediterranean diet is traditionally practised. This dietary tradition, based on vegetables, fruit, extra virgin olive oil, fish, pulses and whole grains, is one of the best-documented dietary patterns in the context of cardiometabolic prevention.

From a strategic perspective, a sensible approach to managing lipid metabolism involves combining several elements:

- A solid nutritional foundation – a diet containing an adequate amount of vegetables, fruit, fish, nuts and olive oil; limiting saturated and trans fats; and limiting simple sugars.

- Regular physical activity – the best-documented ‘medicine’ for the lipid profile.

- A healthy body weight – a key element of metabolic health.

- Sleep and stress management – both factors have a real impact on metabolic parameters.

- Supplementation based on approved claims – omega-3 fatty acids as the first line of defence, plant extracts such as bergamot as a possible addition for those interested in the culinary and traditional context.

In this context, bergamot is an interesting addition – an element of the Mediterranean tradition in a convenient capsule form. However, it is not a supplement designed to ‘solve the problem’ of lipid metabolism. If you have specific abnormalities in your lipid profile results, consulting your GP or a cardiologist is far more important than self-medicating with supplements.

Who might be interested in bergamot

Supplementation with standardised bergamot extracts is sometimes considered by several groups of adults – as part of a conscious, rationally considered supplementation routine.

People interested in the Mediterranean diet – for whom bergamot is a natural complement to a lifestyle based on the culinary traditions of southern Italy.

Adults focusing on cardiometabolic prevention – as part of a broader strategy encompassing diet, exercise, sleep and basic Omega-3 supplementation.

People curious about new plant extracts currently under active research – bergamot remains an area of research with a growing number of publications, making it of interest to informed consumers who follow the scientific literature.

On the other hand, if the aim is to address specific lipid-related issues – for example, documented hyperlipidaemia evident in test results – bergamot is not a substitute for medical care. In such situations, the first step is to consult a doctor.

Bergamot extract dosage – what is used

In clinical trials on bergamot extracts, doses ranging from 500 to 1,500 mg per day of standardised extract were used, depending on the standardisation method and the aim of the study. Supplement manufacturers usually recommend 500–1,000 mg of extract per day, divided into 1–2 doses.

Bergamot is usually taken with meals – the flavonoids it contains are lipophilic, and their absorption is enhanced by the presence of fats in the meal. The most common regimen is to take a dose before the main meal of the day (lunch or dinner). Bergamot supplementation is considered a long-term process – clinical trials typically involved 4–12 weeks of regular use.

[tip: Bergamot extract is best taken with a meal containing fats – the flavonoids are better absorbed in the presence of fat. If you are using bergamot as part of a cardioprotective strategy, combine it with a Mediterranean diet (olive oil, fish, vegetables, nuts) and regular physical activity – these are the factors with the best-documented effects on lipid metabolism.]

Safety and contraindications

Standardised bergamot extracts at typical supplement doses are generally well tolerated by healthy adults. The most commonly observed side effects (rare) include mild gastrointestinal discomfort and occasional allergic reactions in individuals sensitive to citrus fruits.

[Warning: Bergamot, like grapefruit, contains furanocoumarins – compounds that may affect the metabolism of many medicines via the cytochrome P450 system (primarily CYP3A4). If you are taking medication on a regular basis (statins, antihypertensives, anticoagulants, immunosuppressants, certain psychiatric medicines), you must consult your doctor before taking bergamot supplements. Supplementation is also not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women, people under the age of 18, or those with active liver disease. People with a documented allergy to citrus fruits should exercise particular caution.]

Other plant extracts supporting a healthy routine

Bergamot is one of many plant extracts that feature in the context of informed supplementation amongst adults focused on preventative care. Other extracts worth considering, with well-documented profiles, include:

Berberine – an isoquinoline alkaloid with a wealth of scientific literature. Read more in the article on berberine – what it is and how it works.

Coenzyme Q10 – a compound with an established role in the mitochondrial respiratory chain, often considered by adults.

Curcumin with piperine – one of the most extensively studied plant extracts of recent decades.

You can find the full range of plant extracts and Omega-3 fatty acids in the categories Extracts and Omega Fatty Acids.

[note: Vitaler’s Bergamot is a standardised extract from the fruit of Citrus bergamia in a convenient, easy-to-dose capsule – free from artificial colourings, preservatives and unnecessary fillers. We regard it as part of a conscious supplementation routine for people who are aware of the limitations of the scientific evidence and make informed decisions – not as a substitute for Omega-3 fatty acids with EFSA-approved health claims.]

FAQ – frequently asked questions about bergamot

Does bergamot really ‘lower cholesterol’?

This claim goes beyond what we can reliably state today in the light of current knowledge. Bergamot does not have an EFSA-approved claim regarding its effect on cholesterol levels. Some clinical trials have observed potentially beneficial changes in certain lipid parameters among participants, but the data do not yet meet EFSA’s criteria for approving a specific claim. The scientifically approved ingredient with an effect on maintaining normal blood cholesterol levels is alpha-linolenic acid (ALA, 2 g per day), and in the context of triglycerides – EPA+DHA (2 g per day).

Do bergamot and grapefruit have similar properties?

Both citrus fruits contain furanocoumarins – compounds that affect the metabolism of medicines via the cytochrome P450 system. For this reason, both plants may interact with many medicines. However, their flavonoid profiles differ – bergamot contains unique compounds (bruteridine and melitydine) which are not present in high concentrations in grapefruit. When it comes to drug interactions, treat bergamot with the same caution as grapefruit.

Does the bergamot in Earl Grey tea have the same effects?

No. Traditional Earl Grey tea contains bergamot oil in very small, flavouring quantities – its role is as a flavouring, not as a dietary supplement. Standardised bergamot extracts in capsules provide significantly higher, measurable amounts of flavonoids than any amount of Earl Grey tea.

How long can bergamot be used for?

Clinical trials on bergamot typically lasted 4–12 weeks. Long-term safety (beyond a few months of continuous use) has not been well studied. A sensible approach is to use it in cycles – 8–12 weeks of supplementation, followed by a break – and to consult a doctor periodically, particularly if you are taking other medicines.

Summary: Bergamot (Citrus bergamia) is a citrus fruit from Calabria, Italy, with a unique phytochemical profile, characterised by two flavonoids not found in high concentrations in other citrus fruits – bruteridine and melitidine. Bergamot extracts are the subject of a growing body of scientific research into their potential impact on metabolic parameters, although the data do not yet meet the EFSA’s criteria for the approval of specific health claims. The scientific basis for heart health remains Omega-3 fatty acids (EPA+DHA, with approved claims regarding heart health, blood pressure and triglycerides) and ALA (with an approved claim regarding cholesterol). Bergamot may be an interesting addition to a health-conscious, Mediterranean-based diet – but it is not a substitute for medical care in the case of specific lipid abnormalities. Consult your doctor before taking any supplements, particularly if you are on long-term medication.