Spugnato Bergamot Essential Oil

Bergamot spugnato essential oil, holds a special place in the world of aromatherapy and perfumery. This method, deeply rooted in the culture and history of Calabria, Italy, is a testament to the region's rich heritage and dedication to preserving artisanal techniques.

The "spugnato" method, also known as the sponge method, is a very prized and old traditional technique used to extract essential oil from the peel of the bergamot fruit. This method dates back to the 17th century and is unique to the Calabria region. Actually it is about impossible to find real spugnato bergamot essential oil; there are only a few old men in some small calabrian city that are making it yet, and just in an extra limited quantity. The  process involves the following steps:

1. *Harvesting*: The bergamot fruits are hand-picked during the winter months when their aromatic compounds are at their peak. 
2. *Peeling*: The outer peel of the fruit, which contains the essential oil, is carefully removed.
3. *Sponge Extraction*: The peels are then pressed against natural sea sponges for a very long time. It is a very laborious and long process made with the best calabrian bergamot, and that require to know the true hand pression and correct movements. The sponges absorb small portion of essential oil time after time, which is then squeezed out into a container.
4. *Filtration*: The collected oil is carefully filtered to remove any impurities, resulting in pure spugnato bergamot essential oil.

This legendary extraction method is labor-intensive and requires an high level of skill and precision. It is said that the best bergamot oil is obtained from fruits grown in the coastal areas of Reggio Calabria, where the unique microclimate enhances the quality of the oil.

The invention of the spugnato extraction method is attributed to the ingenuity of Calabrian farmers who sought to maximize the yield and quality of bergamot oil. One of the most famous stories involves an old man from Reggio Calabria, who, in the early 1700s, discovered that using sea sponges to extract the oil resulted in a superior product.

Bergamot has been an integral part of Calabrian culture for centuries. Known as the "green gold" of Calabria, bergamot is not only valued for its essential oil but also for its culinary and medicinal uses. The fruit is often used in traditional Calabrian recipes, and its juice is believed to have numerous health benefits, including aiding digestion and reducing cholesterol levels. 

The cultivation and extraction of bergamot oil have also played a significant role in the local economy. Many families in Calabria have been involved in bergamot farming and oil production for generations, passing down their knowledge and skills through the years. The region's dedication to preserving traditional methods, such as the spugnato method, has helped maintain the high quality and reputation of Calabrian spugnato bergamot oil.

Visitors to Calabria can explore the "Bergamot Route," an itinerary that takes them through the coastal areas of Reggio Calabria, where they can learn about the history and cultivation of bergamot. The route includes visits to bergamot orchards, museums, and artisanal workshops where the spugnato method is still practiced. This journey offers a unique insight into the cultural and historical significance of bergamot in Calabria region.

The spugnato method of extracting bergamot essential oil is a beautiful example of how traditional techniques can produce exceptional results. The dedication and craftsmanship of Calabrian farmers have ensured that this method remains a vital part of the region's heritage. Bergamot oil, with its rich history and cultural significance, continues to be a cherished product, not only in Calabria but around the world.

The stock is very limited

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