Fragrance notes – Orange

Orange or as perfumers call it “sweet orange” (Citrus sinensis) is one of the favorite citrus scents of many creators. Its sweet, juicy, and cheerful note, between pomelo and tangerine, seduces and nourishes the sense of smell. It has the freshness and lightness of citrus with a small dose of sweetness and pleasure, as well as a balsamic undertone, which makes it a perfect match for perfumes dominated by fragrant resins like Elixir des Merveilles by Hermes.

Sweet orange is a hybrid between Citrus reticulata (mandarin) and Citrus maxima (pomelo). It comes to us from the East and is first mentioned in written Chinese literature in 314 BC. The Chinese word for orange sounds very similar to the Chinese word “wealth”, and (along with mandarine fruit) it is used as a symbol of happiness and prosperity in celebrating Chinese New Year. In Sanskrit, the word for it is synonymous with ”fragrant”.

For centuries, oranges were only available to the wealthiest and most powerful sections of society. Today, the largest producers are China, Brazil, and the USA.

Essential oil is obtained by cold squeezing peel or so-called oil expression. Squeezed oil is a pale reddish-yellow to dark orangy-brownish color. The oil has a sweet, light and fresh, fruity aroma and taste, very reminiscent of the smell of sweet orange peel. Perfumers use it mostly as a top note, but it blends well with other fragrance notes. Its scent is recognizable, bright, and upbeat to everyone, reminiscent to many of the summer and warmer days. It is ideal as a combination with other citrus fruits, but also with warm, spicy notes such as cloves and cinnamon, as well as other: cedar, sandalwood, lavender, vetiver, and incense. Like many oils, this fragrant oil can be found in synthetic form as well.

According to aromatherapy, orange essential oil directly affects the human psyche by provoking positive emotional reactions. It is a significant essential hormone balancing essential oil, as it can help rule out stress hormones like cortisol. Research shows that it elevates mood and soothes, making it a great scent to improve your mood in the morning or calm your nerves after a long stressful day. Perfume with a dominant orange fragrant note can improve your days, weeks, and even months.

READ MORE ABOUT FANTASTIC ORANGE PERFUMES: Strong and unapologetic Terre d’Hermes and optimistic and joyful Happy by Clinique.

Perfumes with this dominant note are: Concentre d’Orang Verte and Eau des Marveilles by Hermes, Boucheron Pour Homme, Orange Sanguine by Atelier Cologne, Little Italy by Bond no 9, Azemour les Orangers by Parfum d’Empire, O. Spice by Creed, O. Bitters by Jo Malone, O. by Boss.