Citrus bergamot

Also known as bergamot extract, citrus bergamia.

Last reviewed October 9, 2026 · Jump to references

What is Citrus bergamot?

In plain words

Bergamot is a citrus fruit used to make extracts studied for their effects on cholesterol and other blood fats. The gut and liver break down its plant compounds into substances the body can absorb and remove. Some small human studies suggest cholesterol benefits, but larger, longer studies are needed to confirm the effects and safety.

Technical definition

Citrus bergamot (Citrus bergamia) is a citrus botanical whose fruit-derived extracts contain flavonoids, including neoeriocitrin, naringin, and neohesperidin; these extracts differ chemically from peel essential oil. Its constituents are metabolized after ingestion and are studied for effects on lipid metabolism and oxidative signaling, rather than action at a single established receptor. Bergamot extracts are marketed as dietary supplements in the United States, not as FDA-approved treatments for cholesterol disorders.

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Evidence by use

Each use is rated on its own. There is no single overall effectiveness score.