What does the word rosemary mean?
Rosemary, also known by its scientific name Rosmarinus officinalis, is a shrub belonging to the Lamiaceae family. Its name comes from the Latin "ros marinus," meaning "sea rose." This name is related to its ability to grow in arid and coastal environments.
In the beginning…
Rosemary is a very ancient plant. It was already used in ancient Egypt for its medicinal properties. During antiquity, the Greeks and Romans used it for its healing and aromatic properties. In the Middle Ages, rosemary was considered a magical plant capable of protecting against evil spirits.
Today, it is still highly valued for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, as well as its fresh and invigorating scent. It is often used in cosmetic products for skin and hair care, as well as in natural perfumes.
Rosemary is native to Mediterranean regions such as Greece, Spain, and Italy. Today, it is cultivated in many parts of the world, including France, where it is used to produce rosemary essential oils.
Growing rosemary
Rosemary is grown in various regions around the world, particularly around the Mediterranean, including Spain, Italy, France, and Greece, where it enjoys a sunny climate and well-drained soil. It is also found in similar regions such as California and some South American countries.
The process of growing rosemary begins with selecting a sunny location with well-drained soil. Rosemary cuttings can be planted directly in the ground or grown from seed. Regular watering is important for young plants, but rosemary is a drought-tolerant plant once established. Rosemary grows into dense bushes and can be pruned to maintain its shape and promote compact growth. Harvesting can begin when the branches have reached a sufficient size, cutting the stems near the base to encourage new growth.
What did you know about rosemary in perfumery?
To use rosemary in perfumery and cosmetics, the essential oil must be extracted from the plant's leaves. The manufacturing process begins with picking the rosemary leaves, which must be harvested by hand to ensure the quality of the essential oil. The leaves are then dried and sorted to remove impurities. Steam distillation is the most common method for extracting rosemary essential oil. The dried leaves are placed in a vat and heated with steam. The steam then passes through a cooling coil, where it condenses into an aromatic solution. This solution is then separated into two phases: rosemary essential oil and floral water, which can also be used in cosmetics.
Rosemary's aromatic profile is woody, resinous, and slightly pungent. In cooking, it is often used to add a fresh note to rich, flavorful dishes, such as roasted meats and grilled vegetables. Additionally, in the perfume industry, rosemary is used as a base note in woody and aromatic fragrances to add depth and complexity.
Rosemary has a distinctive and versatile scent that blends well with several scent combinations. Here are some examples of scent combinations commonly associated with rosemary:
• Citrus: Citrus notes like lemon, grapefruit and orange blend harmoniously with rosemary, adding a lively freshness to the fragrance composition.
• Aromatic herbs: Due to its herbaceous nature, rosemary blends well with other aromatic herbs such as lavender, thyme or sage, creating a complex and soothing herbal bouquet.
• Wood: Woody accords like cedar, sandalwood, or vetiver can add depth and warmth to the presence of rosemary, creating an interesting contrast between freshness and warmth.
• Marine Notes : The combination of rosemary with marine notes evokes a Mediterranean ambiance, where the sea breeze blends with coastal vegetation, adding a marine and salty dimension to the fragrance.
• Spices : Spices such as black pepper, ginger or cloves can be used to add a subtle spicy touch that complements the herbal notes of rosemary.
GOOD TO KNOW!
In addition to its use in perfumery and cosmetics, rosemary is also known for its health benefits. This aromatic plant is rich in antioxidants, fatty acids, and minerals, making it an excellent ingredient for fighting disease and strengthening the immune system. Rosemary is used to improve digestion, relieve joint and muscle pain, and stimulate blood circulation. It is also known for its antifungal and antibacterial properties, making it an ideal ingredient for treating skin and scalp infections.
Legendary rosemary fragrances...
Rosemary is a key ingredient in one of the oldest perfumes in the world: Eau de La Reine de Hongrie. This ancestral perfume with its aromatic scent is a true cure for rejuvenation. Since then, other popular perfumes have made the most of this raw material, such as:
• Eau de Campagne by Sisley : A refreshing and invigorating fragrance that combines rosemary, lavender and lemon.
• Pour un Homme by Caron : A classic fragrance with notes of rosemary and lavender, offering a masculine and elegant fragrance.
• Clarins Eau Dynamisante : Uses rosemary to add a touch of freshness and vitality to this fragrance.
• Bois d'Orange by Roger & Gallet : A fragrance that subtly blends rosemary with other ingredients, creating a harmonious composition.
• Eau de Cologne du Parfumeur by Guerlain is a refreshing and elegant fragrance that combines notes of lively citrus, aromatic lavender and subtle musk, offering a timeless and classic olfactory experience.
• XS by Paco Rabanne is an intense and seductive masculine fragrance that blends spicy, woody and floral notes to create a captivating and sophisticated composition.
Rosemary X Good Perfumer
Among the rosemary perfumes made in France offered by Bon Parfumeur, we find:
• Eau de Parfum 801 : With notes of rosemary, sea spray, and citrus, this juice offers a light, fresh, and elegant fragrance. You can wear it all year round and enjoy its freshness in all circumstances!
• Eau de parfum 701 : This eau de parfum is a true olfactory explosion! Notes of rosemary, eucalyptus, coriander and cypress blend together to provide an invigorating and revitalizing result.
Our French perfumers skillfully exploit the aromatic properties of rosemary in their compositions, thus offering fragrances that combine freshness, elegance and vitality. If you would like to try them, find them in our discovery offer .
