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With a tangy, slightly grassy aroma, lemongrass is a versatile fragrance note that can seamlessly blend with a wide range of scents, from floral to oriental, and woody to citrus, adding a touch of brightness and joy to any fragrance!
Lemongrass: The Captivating Indian Plant Distinct from Verbena
Native to tropical regions, lemongrass boasts numerous surprising properties. Originally from Ceylon, now Sri Lanka, this plant's leaves were traditionally used in a decoction to treat infected wounds, cuts, and sore eyes. It was also commonly used in a tea called "fever tea" to alleviate stomach aches and migraines. This is possibly why lemongrass is sometimes referred to as "Indian verbena," although the two plants are quite different.
Fun Fact: Lemongrass is known to have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, and has been used in traditional medicine for centuries.
Nowadays, lemongrass is primarily used in aromatherapy for its numerous benefits (including repelling mosquitoes), in cooking to infuse Asian dishes with its tangy flavor, and in perfumery, where the note of lemongrass is highly valued for its originality, unique fragrance, and versatility in pairing with various olfactory notes.
Lemongrass-Based Perfumes: Unconventional and Liberating
The invigorating, fresh, tangy, and fragrant note of lemongrass is truly captivating! However, apart from the delightful exotic floral Pluie de Fleurs from Cinq Mondes, lemongrass made its appearance in perfumes relatively late, especially between 2014 and 2016.
Fun Fact: Lemongrass essential oil is extracted from the leaves and stalks of the lemongrass plant through a process called steam distillation.
In 2014, the market welcomed two masculine fragrances featuring lemongrass as top notes, each serving specific scent profiles. Diesel's Only The Brave Wild, an oriental-fern fragrance, combines lemongrass with grapefruit, pink berries, and cloves to create an invigorating and exotic scent. Carven's Vetiver, on the other hand, modernizes the famous 1957 fragrance by Caron while retaining its original accord. Notes of lemongrass, citrus fruits, and bergamot energetically open the aromatic and floral heart of the perfume, leaving the classic trail of vetiver, sandalwood, and benzoin so cherished by Caron. In the following year, this renowned house once again incorporated lemongrass into its aromatic amber fragrance Pour un Homme Sport, where the delightful herbaceous note mingles with mint and lemon for a decidedly sporty opening.
Although lemongrass is a relatively rare scent note, it seems to thrive in the realm of men's perfumery. However, some perfumers have also ventured into exploring this enticing olfactory trail in floral scents. For instance, Chloé's Chloé Fleur de Parfum, released in 2016, daringly features lemongrass as a top note to add sparkle and freshness to its beautiful bouquet of flowers. This creative use of lemongrass demonstrates the potential it holds for further exploration and innovation in the world of perfumery.
Fun Fact: The fresh, citrusy aroma of lemongrass is often used in aromatherapy to help relieve stress, anxiety, and depression, as well as to invigorate and uplift the mood.
Lemongrass, with its refreshing and vibrant scent, offers a unique and exciting olfactory experience in the realm of perfumes. Its ability to adapt to various fragrance families and blend effortlessly with different scent notes makes it a remarkable addition to both men's and women's fragrances. As perfumers continue to experiment with lemongrass, we can look forward to even more exceptional and inspiring creations that feature this remarkable plant. The future of lemongrass in perfumery is undoubtedly promising and full of potential.
