How are natural perfumes formulated?
Every essential oil, absolute, etc. has a different rate of evaporation. Based on how long the essence will last, it is placed into the category of top, middle (heart), or base notes. A natural perfume is created by blending essences from each category. The top notes are the most fleeting. They greet your nose first when you smell the perfume, but then only last a short time. Essential oils in the top note category include citruses, mint, spices (such as cardamom, basil, black pepper, etc.), and a few florals, such as lavender. Middle, or heart, notes last longer than the top notes…sometimes for an hour or two, and include most florals, and a few other essences, such as Violet Leaf. Base notes last the longest; some can last for days before fully evaporating. Essences in the base category include vanilla, oakmoss, and vetiver. There are exceptions to every rule, and so each essence must be individually examined to see which category it falls into. These essences are blended into a base
