Overview and Applications

 

Definition:

per·fume /n. ˈpɜrfyum, pərˈfyum; v. pərˈfyum, ˈpɜrfyum/[n. pur-fyoom, per-fyoom; v. per-fyoom, pur-fyoom] noun, verb, -fumed, -fum·ing.

–noun

1. a substance, extract, or preparation for diffusing or imparting an agreeable or attractive smell, esp. a fluid containing fragrant natural oils extracted from flowers, woods, etc., or similar synthetic oils. 2. the scent, odor, or volatile particles emitted by substances that smell agreeable.

–verb (used with object)

3. (of substances, flowers, etc.) to impart a pleasant fragrance to. 4. to impregnate with a sweet odor; scent.

 

The word perfume is derived from the latin meaning - "through smoke." The sense of smell triggers different responses in different people. Sexual behavior, emotion, and even memory are affected by the aromatc scents available - floral, fruity, spicy, citrus, and others. Natural perfumes can enhance a good mood, chase away a bad one, relax you, and awaken you! You can feel glamorous, exotic, confident, or utterly feminine!

Perfume Components:

Natural perfumes are made up of three scent levels, or 'notes' that produce the ultimate scent. They are called the top, middle, and base 'notes,' made with essential oils.

The first scent you notice, or top note, lasts the shortest time because it evaporates the quickest. Top notes are usually light citrus oils - neroli, lemon, rosemary, mint, bergamot, lime, or orange.

The middle note, which determines the fragrance family, links the top and base notes. This note includes flowery essential oils such as jasmine, rose, ylang-ylang and geranium.

The 'fixative' base note, which lasts the longest, adds the richness of the overall scent and carries the other scents added to the perfume. This rich scent is produced from the roots, woods, resins and balsams of essential oils such as patchouli, vetiver, and sandalwood - and can be sweet, heavy and dark.

An odorless alcohol, such as Vodka, can be added to this 'carrier' oil to help produce a longer-lasting effect.

Mix the essential oils to produce a scent that suits your taste and personal preference. Mix them one drop at a time, always shaking the mixture thoroughly.  Use dark glass bottles, and once mixed, the scents should be stored in a dark, cool place and thoroughly shaken from time to time - until the preferred scent is obtained.

Always apply perfumes to clean, dry skin. Your 'pulse points' - earlobes, throat, nape of the neck, wrists, at the inside bends of the elbows and knees - allow your scents to develop a richer longer-lasting fragrance, as they are the parts of the body that receive good blood circulation.

 

Jojoba oil for a perfume base

Citrus oil for refreshment

Jasmine oil for rich intensity

Geranium oil for harmony and balance

Ylang-ylang oil for relaxation

Patchouli oil for extending the fragrance

 

 See Perfume Recipes

See Guidelines and Warnings