Aromatherapy and Perfumery – Where the Two Worlds Meet
Scents have accompanied humanity for thousands of years. Historically, they have been not only an aesthetic delight but also a spiritual and healing tool – from burning sacred woods and resins in temples to the fragrance bottles we carry with us today.
While aromatherapy and perfumery are distinct practices, there are natural intersections between them. Aromatherapy relies on essential oils for their therapeutic benefits, while perfumery uses them primarily for their aromatic qualities. Yet some ingredients live in both worlds – they support us emotionally or physically and at the same time create beautiful notes in fragrance compositions.
Here are some examples:
Citrus
In aromatherapy: Uplifting, improves mood, supports focus.
In perfumery: Classic top notes that bring freshness, sparkle, and brightness to any composition.
Lavender
In aromatherapy: Calming, supports restful sleep, reduces stress.
In perfumery: A universal note in fougère, aromatic and floral perfumes – evokes a sense of cleanliness and serenity.
Clary Sage
In aromatherapy: Balances hormones, reduces tension, encourages openness and communication.
In perfumery: Adds a herbal-dry, warm, gently musky nuance with a hint of green freshness.
Chamomile
In aromatherapy: Known for soothing properties, helps reduce inflammation.
In perfumery: Provides a honeyed, floral nuance with a tea-like facet, adding softness to blends.
Ginger
In aromatherapy: Stimulating, energizing, promotes vitality.
In perfumery: A spicy, lively accent, often paired with citrus or woods, but also a bright companion to florals.
Immortelle (Helichrysum)
In aromatherapy: Regenerative for skin and tissues – the “everlasting flower.”
In perfumery: Warm, sunlit, honeyed base note with straw, leather, and even caramel nuances.
Rose
In aromatherapy: Harmonizes emotions, uplifts mood, calms the heart, supports skin health and women’s wellbeing.
In perfumery: One of the most aristocratic notes – ranging from fresh and green to honeyed and velvety.
Jasmine
In aromatherapy: Reduces stress and anxiety, uplifting, supports the nervous system.
In perfumery: Intense and sensual, with many faces – from bright and fruity to deep and creamy.
Ylang Ylang
In aromatherapy: Known as an aphrodisiac, relaxes the nervous system, brings joy and playfulness.
In perfumery: Exotic, sweet, and radiant floral note, adding sensuality and richness.
Sandalwood
In aromatherapy: Used for meditation, inner peace, and spiritual grounding.
In perfumery: Creamy woody note that adds depth and lasting warmth to fragrances.
Thyme
In aromatherapy: Antibacterial, supports immunity.
In perfumery: Strong green herbal accent that adds character, freshness, and leathery nuances.
Cedarwood
In aromatherapy: Stabilizes emotions, evokes a sense of safety.
In perfumery: A warm, dry, slightly smoky woody base.
Patchouli
In aromatherapy: Grounding, helps release anxiety, connects to the subconscious.
In perfumery: Deep, earthy, damp leaf note – iconic in amber-spicy and woody perfumes.
Vetiver
In aromatherapy: Strengthening, calming, helps with grounding and stability.
In perfumery: Earthy, nutty, woody note that gives refinement and exceptional longevity.
Why does this matter?
Aromatherapy and perfumery complement each other – one is more focused on wellbeing and healing, the other on aesthetics and emotions. Yet they share the same language – scent. In both cases, aromatic molecules are inhaled and absorbed through the skin, influencing our wellbeing and emotional balance.
⚠️ Safety Note
Before using essential oils, always learn about their safety, recommended methods of application, and correct dilutions.
Why is this important?
Essential oils are highly concentrated plant extracts.
Improper use (such as applying too much on skin or using undiluted) may cause irritation, allergic reactions, or other side effects.
Some oils carry specific risks – for example, citrus oils can increase photosensitivity, while others may be unsuitable during pregnancy or for certain health conditions.
That is why in aromatherapy the right concentration and safe carriers are key – only then can essential oils truly support wellbeing.