By Tijon
“I know [a fragrance] will be a success when a man falls in love with a woman who is wearing it.” ~Jean-Paul Guerlain
Scientists are increasingly confirming what aroma therapists and perfumers have always believed – that fragrance affects psychology. By measuring brain wave activity and heart rate, researchers have proved that certain scents such as lavender and chamomile are calming, while others like neroli and bergamot are stimulating.
In one test, computer keyboard operators typed 14 per cent more strokes per hour with a hint of citrus or cedar in the air, and made 21 per cent fewer errors. Current studies designed to pinpoint the specific mood effects of fragrances are focusing on a method of psychological evaluation called “mood profiling” which helps identify which fragrances make us feel best.
Perfume history:
In 1630 Tulips from Turkey, the spring-blooming perennials were first introduced in France by botanists. This led to a tulip perfume that became all the rage in Paris. The Dutch took things a step further and proclaimed this new flower their national symbol. Tulips come in a variety of colors except pure blue (if it looks blue, it is actually considered a violet hue).
Our sense of smell:
It has been believed since 1920 that the human nose could discern about 10,000 odors. A new study now claims humans can discern over one trillion odors. Women can generally smell scents more acutely than men, but of course, dogs beat us all.
Fragrance fact:
Fragrances will be more intense on people with a high fat, spicy diet. The scent of the fragrance doesn’t change, but the scent of your skin does. Most of us forget that our skin is an excretory organ. Spicy foods spice up the oils secreted through the pores of your skin; so spicy skin, different fragrance.
Fragrance tip:
How to choose a perfume? Like many sensory experiences, our reaction to smell is an instinctual process. Trust yourself, and learn which scent family – floral, fresh, woody, etc. – you are most innately drawn to. If you observe which fragrances you like most upon first sniff, over time, you will likely start to see a pattern.
Trends:
Earthy scents are the physical manifestation and grounding force from which all elements are founded. Its raw, organic, often untamed character encompasses the vastness of air, fluidity of water and the spirit of fire, while remaining true to its primitive foundation. Its landscapes are a mosaic of history and authenticity. Popular in this category is amber, vetiver, patchouli and sandalwood.
How can I tell if my fragrance is overpowering?
Ask a friend. Since we can’t smell the fragrance we’re wearing after a while, we have to rely on the opinions of friends and family. If you regularly receive compliments, that’s probably the surest sign that you’re wearing the right fragrance. On the other hand, if people ask which fragrance you’re wearing but make no other comment, beware!
Oil spotlight: Galbanum.
In Christian Biblical history, when Jesus was born, the three Magi brought gifts of frankincense oil, myrrh oil and gold. There are some reports that the third gift, gold, may have been changed in translation and may actually have been another fragrant and expensive oil, galbanum. Indigenous to Northern Iran, it is a small plant whose oil is used as a base note in perfumes.
Law of random numbers:
If you dial a wrong number, you never get a busy signal, someone always answers.
