Ethical Natural Perfumery – Through the Seasons
Creating perfumes inspired by the changing seasons is a delightful way to capture the essence of each time of year. In the garden, even in northern climates, a variety of fragrant materials are available to blend into unique, seasonal natural perfumes.
Spring’s Awakening: Lilacs and Hyacinths
Spring introduces us to the fresh, sweet scents of lilacs and hyacinths. These early bloomers are perfect for infusing oils using methods like enflurage, where their delicate aromas can be preserved and enjoyed long after the blooms have faded. Imagine opening a jar of hyacinth oil in mid-summer and being transported back to the early days of spring.
Early Summer’s Delight: Roses and Narcissi
As the season progresses, roses become abundant. Known as the queen of flowers, roses blend beautifully with nearly every other scent, making them a staple in perfumery. Narcissi, with their intoxicating fragrance, also come into bloom. These can be combined to create lush, floral perfumes that evoke the fullness of early summer.
Exotic Summer Blooms: Jasmine and Frangipani
Even in northern gardens, exotic flowers like jasmine and frangipani can thrive during the warmest months. These tropical scents add a rich, sensual layer to summer perfumes. Their heady aromas can be captured through steam distillation or solvent extraction to create concentrated, luxurious oils.
Childhood Memories: Simple Rose Water
Reflecting on childhood memories, many of us recall creating “perfume” by soaking rose petals in water. While charming, this method often leads to quick spoilage. A more effective approach is to use a non-scented carrier oil, like jojoba, which preserves the fragrance much longer. This technique captures the pure essence of roses, creating a nostalgic yet sophisticated scent.
Ethical Harvesting: Tree Resins
Throughout the year, tree resins can be collected. These resins offer deep, grounding notes perfect for winter perfumes. It’s essential to harvest resins ethically, ensuring minimal impact on the environment and the trees themselves.
Conclusion
By aligning your perfumery practices with the seasons, you can create a diverse palette of fragrances that evolve throughout the year. This approach not only enriches your aromatic collection but also connects you more deeply with the natural world. As you experiment with different materials experience the timeless joy of capturing nature’s fleeting beauty in a bottle.
For more tips and detailed guidance on natural perfumery, consider joining our NPA Natural Perfumery Diploma Course – Now 50% Discount on All NPA Courses for a limited time – offer ends 31st of August 2024