Study on the chemical composition variability of some processed bergamot (Citrus bergamia) essential oils

摘要

Bergamot oil {Citrus bergamia) is mainly employed in the perfumery and cosmetic industries and also, in a smaller amount, in the pharmaceutical and food industries, for its fragrant notes, fixative and antimicrobial properties. Due to the presence of some phototoxic compounds in its composition, it has become a common practice to reduce or sometimes completely eliminate these substances before using the oil. Samples of treated bergamot oils have been investigated in this study (terpeneless, furocoumarin-and bergapten-free) by means of GC-FID, GC-MS, enantio-GC-FID and HPLC. The results are reported in terms of either peak areas or g/100 g. Some considerations are made in order to discuss the technologies used for treating bergamot oil.