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What is Bergamot in Earl Grey Tea? And Its Benefits
If you’ve ever sipped on a cup of Earl Grey tea, you know there’s something undeniably different about it compared to your usual cup of black tea. That bright, citrusy aroma and refreshing distinct flavor? That’s all thanks to bergamot—a fragrant citrus fruit that has become the star of one of the world’s most iconic tea blends.
But what exactly is bergamot? Where does it come from? And why has it become so central to traditional Earl Grey and even modern variations like Lady Grey and French Earl Grey? Beyond taste, what about the claimed health benefits of bergamot tea—from heart health to weight loss?
Grab your cup of tea (maybe even a fresh cup of Earl Grey tea) and let’s dive into the history, flavor, and potential health benefits of this pear-shaped citrus fruit that’s made such a splash in the tea world.
A Quick Introduction: What is Bergamot?
Bergamot is a small, pear-shaped citrus fruit—somewhere between the size of an orange and a lime—that thrives in the sun-drenched groves of Southern Italy. In fact, Calabria (a region in southern Italy) produces most of the world’s bergamot supply. The fruit is officially known as Citrus bergamia, and while you probably won’t snack on it like you would a regular orange (its raw taste is pretty sour), its aromatic essential oil and bergamot flavouring are prized worldwide.
Fun fact: the word “bergamot” is believed to have come from “bergamotta,” referencing the Italian town of Bergamo where the oil was first sold.
The fruit’s rind of bergamot orange is where the magic lies. When pressed, it yields pure bergamot oil—a fragrant, uplifting essence that has been used in perfumes, aromatic oils, and, of course, tea.
The History of Earl Grey Tea
To really appreciate bergamot, you need to understand the history of Earl Grey tea. Named after Earl Charles Grey, the second Earl Grey and British Prime Minister in the 1830s, this classic Earl Grey tea quickly became a household favorite in England.
Legend has it that Lord Grey received a gift of black tea base scented with oil of bergamot from a Chinese tea merchant. Another version ties the blend to the Slavery Abolition Act, suggesting it was created as a diplomatic thank-you gift to Grey for abolishing slavery in the British Empire.
Whatever the true story, one thing is clear: the addition of bergamot oil to a base of black tea leaves created a distinctive flavor that tea lovers couldn’t get enough of. The tea became so popular that the tea company Twiningsbegan selling it commercially. To this day, Twinings markets their high quality Earl Grey with great pride.
Over time, variations appeared:
Lady Grey – a softer, lighter version of Earl Grey with orange peel and lemon.
French Earl Grey – infused with florals, adding a delicate floral note to the citrus.
English Breakfast – not technically an Earl Grey, but often enjoyed by the same tea lovers who crave a full-bodied black tea.
The Distinctive Flavor of Bergamot
So, what makes bergamot stand out? When added to tea, its aroma of bergamot creates a balance of citrus flavor, slight bitterness, and refreshing brightness.
A good cup of Earl Grey tea has a rich flavor, a full body, and a pleasant floral note from the bergamot. It’s not overpowering but distinctive enough to make your taste buds perk up.
However, not all bergamot is the real thing. Some mass-market teas use synthetic bergamot or artificial flavors to mimic the effect. If you want the best flavor, always look for teas made with pure bergamot oil or natural bergamot extract. That’s a good idea if you’re chasing great quality and avoiding the aftertaste of chemical substitutes.
Try my favorite Earl Grey Tea!
Earl Grey vs. a Cup of Coffee
For many people, Earl Grey competes with a cup of coffee as their morning pick-me-up. While coffee has a bolder kick of caffeine, Earl Grey offers a more balanced lift in energy levels. Thanks to the amino acid L-theanine in tea, you’ll often feel calm focus rather than jitters.
And let’s be real: sometimes you just want something lighter, fragrant, and soothing rather than heavy like coffee.
Earl Grey and Herbal Teas
Technically, Earl Grey is not one of the herbal teas since it’s usually made with a black tea base. However, some earl grey blends do include rooibos, chamomile, or green tea for variety. A cup of black tea infused with bergamot offers caffeine, while a green tea base gives a milder kick with added antioxidants.
The Potential Health Benefits of Bergamot Tea
Now for the part everyone is curious about: the claimed health benefits of bergamot tea. While sipping your favorite tea blend is never a substitute for medical advice, there are some fascinating studies suggesting bergamot may be more than just a tasty distinct flavor.
1. Heart Health and Cholesterol
Bergamot contains compounds that may help support heart health. Some studies suggest bergamot extract can reduce LDL cholesterol (the “bad” cholesterol) and improve cholesterol levels overall. This could lower the risk of heart disease.
Drinking a daily cup of Earl Grey tea might not replace medication, but it could be a heart-friendly habit.
2. Blood Pressure and Heart Rate
The aromatic essential oil in bergamot has been linked to relaxation, which may help lower blood pressure and regulate heart rate. Combine that with the calming effect of tea, and you’ve got a soothing ritual for your nervous system.
3. Antioxidants and Free Radicals
Like most teas, Earl Grey is packed with powerful antioxidants. These help fight free radicals, reducing oxidative stress that can damage cells. Less oxidative stress may support a stronger immune system and reduce the risk of chronic conditions.
4. Weight Loss and Energy Levels
Some research suggests bergamot may support weight loss by boosting metabolism and balancing energy levels. While it’s no magic potion, replacing sugary drinks or a heavy cup of coffee with a lighter cup of tea is always a good idea if weight management is your goal.
5. Digestive Aid and Muscle Cramps
A hot cup of black tea infused with bergamot may soothe indigestion and even help with muscle cramps. The aromatic oils in bergamot can have mild relaxing effects on the digestive tract.
6. Mental Health and the Nervous System
The aroma of bergamot is often used in aromatherapy to boost mood. Drinking Earl Grey may have similar benefits, supporting relaxation, lowering stress, and gently stimulating the nervous system.
Side Effects and Things to Keep in Mind
As with all good things, moderation matters. Drinking too much Earl Grey (we’re talking gallons daily, not a couple of cups) can lead to side effects. Excessive bergamot extract may interfere with the absorption of iron or, in rare cases, affect potassium levels, leading to muscle cramps.
Always listen to your body, and if you have medical conditions like high blood pressure, it’s wise to seek medical advice before overloading on any tea.
Loose Leaf Tea vs. Tea Bags
If you’re serious about getting the best flavor, go for loose leaf tea made with organic black tea and pure bergamot oil. Loose leaf tends to have more full body and rich flavor than a standard tea bag, which may rely on artificial flavors.
That said, if convenience is key, a good tea bag from a tea company like Twinings is still a solid option—especially if you’re brewing at work or on the go.
Bergamot Beyond Tea
Here’s a twist: bergamot isn’t just for tea. It’s used in perfumes, essential oils, and even in foods. Ever had a dessert flavored with aromatic oils or even a quirky peanut butter spread infused with bergamot? Yup, people get creative with this fragrant citrus fruit.
Why Tea Lovers Keep Coming Back
At the end of the day, Earl Grey isn’t just about its potential health benefits. It’s about the experience: the aroma of bergamot, the soothing warmth of a cup of black tea, the distinctive flavor that feels both uplifting and comforting.
Whether you’re a fan of traditional Earl Grey, the lighter Lady Grey, or floral French Earl Grey, there’s an earl grey blend out there for everyone.
Final Thoughts
So, what is bergamot in Earl Grey tea? It’s the real thing that turns a simple type of tea into an iconic beverage. A pear-shaped citrus fruit from Southern Italy, infused into a base of black tea leaves, gives us a distinctive flavor and a world of potential health benefits.
From supporting heart health and reducing oxidative stress, to helping with weight loss, relaxing the nervous system, and even lowering blood pressure, bergamot is more than just a tasty bergamot flavouring—it’s a small fruit with a big impact.
Next time you sip your cup of Earl Grey tea, remember: you’re not just drinking any tea blend. You’re experiencing history, culture, and a little citrus magic that’s been cherished by tea lovers for centuries.
And if you’ve only ever tried the grocery store tea bag version, consider treating yourself to high quality, loose leaf teawith pure bergamot oil. Your taste buds (and maybe even your immune system) will thank you.
My favorite way to drink Earl Grey contains no caffeine, no sugar and is perfect for relaxation or for sweet dreams. It comes in a convenient tea sachets so you can enjoy it anytime.
Buy your Earl Grey tea here.
So go ahead—brew that cup of tea, inhale the aroma of bergamot, and savor the rich tradition of Earl Grey. Cheers!