Among the thousand uses of bergamot in the food sector, we certainly cannot fail to mention its use in tea instead of the classic slice of lemon. In fact, the citrus fruit gives the drink a unique and intense flavor, in addition to the numerous properties that we have spoken about extensively. Furthermore, there is also Earl Grey, a variety of bergamot tea and considered very valuable. Originally the name referred only to black tea with bergamot, but now with Earl Grey we also refer to green tea, white tea and herbal teas flavored with bergamot. Its origin dates back to 1800 and takes its name from Charles Grey, English Prime Minister from 1830 to 1834. But let's find out more about bergamot tea: here's how to use it, its properties and benefits.

BERGAMOT TEA: PROPERTIES AND USES

Bergamot tea is appreciated for its particular aroma but above all for its benefits. Its citrus scent is particularly esteemed throughout the world, considered perfect both for a good breakfast and for afternoon tea. You can use a slice of bergamot (better if organic ) in black tea or especially in green tea, whose delicate flavor marries perfectly with the bright taste of citrus. Or, you can directly squeeze a slice directly into the cup: the flavor of the tea will be more intense and decisive, and you can make it even more intriguing by adding a pinch of cinnamon.

The properties and benefits of bergamot tea are truly numerous:

• Energetic: perfect for breakfast, thanks to caffeine it helps you start the day with the right energy.
• Antidepressant: Bergamot oil is used in aromatherapy against depression, stress and nervousness.
• Aids digestion: bergamot aids digestion and soothes colic and pain.
• Disinfectant: Perfect if you have a cold or sore throat.
• Antiseptic properties: in case of fever, it helps the body fight the symptoms of flu.

EARL GREY: BERGAMOT-FLAVORED TEA, HISTORY AND VARIETIES

As we have already mentioned, there is also a specific variety of bergamot tea , Earl Grey. There are various stories about the origin of Earl Grey, but in any case the protagonist is always Count Grey. One legend says that Charles Grey sent a diplomatic expedition to save a Chinese Mandarin and this, to thank him, gave him bergamot tea with instructions on how to prepare it. Grey then asked Twinings to produce Earl Grey and sell it. A second story tells that a ship loaded with tea from India and headed to Great Britain, stopped in Calabria to load up on bergamots. The tea blends absorbed the aroma of the citrus fruit and were a real success. Count Grey received some as a gift and decided to ask Twinings to produce this fragrant variety of tea.
Bergamot-flavoured tea is prepared by adding bergamot oil to black tea leaves, but in some cases the whole bergamot is used and mixed with the leaves. The original Earl Grey is therefore made with black tea leaves, but there are other varieties on the market today:

• Lady Grey: Black tea with bergamot, orange and lemon
• Earl Green: Green Tea with Bergamot
• Earl Grey Oolong: blue tea with bergamot flavour
• White tea with bergamot