The "oriental fragrance" is categorized into various subtypes based on the dominant scent notes, such as oriental floral, woody oriental, classic oriental, and soft oriental.
Western perfumers believe that oriental scents are the most exotic in perfumes. Perfumers create this classic and enchanting exotic vibe by blending notes like herb, amber, patchouli, sandalwood, and musk. The term "oriental" reflects the West's love for the East, as these scents evoke a romanticized vision of the oriental world in Western minds.
Introduction to Oriental Scents
• Representative Essential Oils: Patchouli, Osmanthus, and Musk
• Fragrance Characteristics: Classic and luxurious, rich in layers, and long-lasting
For a long time, oriental scents have often been associated with smoky, intense, and exotic notes—an image that doesn't necessarily resonate with the Chinese perception of "oriental" fragrances.
In fact, the 'oriental' scent encompasses more than just the rich aromas of Central Asian palaces from One Thousand and One Nights. It also includes the ethereal fragrance reminiscent of the serene waterways and bridges of Jiangnan in China, as well as the fresh fruit scents of Lingnan in the blooming warmth of spring.
The oriental scents cherished by ancient Chinese, much like the art of using fragrances and tasting tea, are a matter of aesthetic choice, emphasizing 'elegance' with a preference for subtlety and refined grace. They seek a balance that avoids excess and maintains a unique vibe.
For example, during the Song Dynasty, which represents the pinnacle of Chinese elegance, the city of Lin’an (now Hangzhou) would be enveloped in the scent of agarwood as soon as summer arrived. The scholar-officials would use pieces of agarwood to prepare incense over a gentle flame to cool down and calm their minds, while ordinary people enjoyed agarwood-infused water on the streets to beat the heat and stay refreshed. The lingering aroma of agarwood would infuse every Chinese person's summer dreams with a touch of sweetness.
Oriental scents are suitable for both men's and women's fragrances, evoking a sense of distant allure. They are often used to calm and soothe the stresses and anxieties of modern life.
Oriental Scents – Recommended Single Essential Oils
〖 Neroli 〗
Scientific name｜Citrusaurantium var. amara
Origin｜China
Plant family｜Rutaceae
Extraction part｜Flower
Extraction method | Distillation
Aroma｜Elegant yet intense, with a gentle strength and understated tone
Neroli essential oil is produced in China and is obtained by distilling bitter orange flowers, is also known as Citrus aurantium or Dai Dai flower. It has calming effects, promoting relaxation and mental well-being. It helps improve sleep, overcome depression and anxiety, and alleviate menopausal mood swings. Neroli oil is renowned for its remarkable ability to soothe the mind.
〖 Osmanthus 〗
Scientific name｜Osmanthus fragrans
Origin｜China
Plant family｜Oleaceae
Extraction part｜Flower
Extraction method | Abs.
Aroma｜With a light smoky fruit aroma
Osmanthus essential oil, originating from China, is extracted using solvent extraction (Abs.). It is typically derived from the larger, golden-yellow flowers of the sweet osmanthus. This essential oil helps alleviate headaches and fatigue, and is also an excellent mood enhancer.
〖 White Champak 〗
Scientific name｜Magnolia denudata
Origin｜China
Plant family｜Magnoliaceae
Extraction part｜Flower
Extraction method | Distillation
Aroma｜The unique floral fragrance of white champak
White Champak essential oil, derived from China, is obtained through the distillation of White Champak flowers. It exudes a floral-fruity aroma and offers powerful relaxing, calming, and soothing effects. Additionally, its biological properties support a healthy nervous system.
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