Good Perfumer X Tiare Flower
Soft, sunny and fresh, Eau de Parfum 103 enhances the tiare flower in its heart note. Combined with jasmine and hibiscus, this vacation-like fragrance takes you on a journey to Polynesia, to warm sandy beaches.
What does the word tiare flower mean?
The tiare flower, also known as the Tahitian gardenia , symbolizes love and purity in traditional Polynesian culture. But where does the word “tiare” come from? It originates from the Latin “tiaratus,” meaning “tiare” in Tahitian and literally meaning “flower.” This flower belongs to the Rubiaceae family, herbaceous plants widely distributed in cold, temperate, and tropical regions.
This flower has played an important role in Polynesian culture for centuries. Indeed, it is most often used during traditional ceremonies, such as weddings and funerals.
In the beginning…
The tiare flower is native to Polynesia , more precisely Tahiti. It holds an important place in Polynesian history and culture. Used for centuries, this delicate white flower is a symbol of purity and beauty.
Tahitians use it to perfume flower necklaces, called "lei," which are given as a sign of greeting and welcome. Tiare is also used in the production of monoi oil, renowned for its nourishing and moisturizing properties for skin and hair. Today, the tiare flower is valued worldwide for its captivating fragrance and its connection to Polynesian culture.
DID YOU KNOW? Queen Pomare IV of Tahiti played an important role in the history of the flower. In the 19th century, during the colonization of Tahiti by Europeans, Queen Pomare IV banned foreigners from picking the tiare flower. This measure was intended to protect the flower, considered sacred in Polynesian culture, and to preserve its traditional uses.
Tiare flower cultivation
The tiare flower is primarily cultivated and produced in Polynesian regions, including French Polynesia (Tahiti), the Cook Islands, Fiji, and Samoa. These locations benefit from a tropical climate conducive to the growth of the tiare flower and its aromatic qualities.
The process of planting , growing, and harvesting tiare flowers begins with the preparation of seeds or cuttings. The seeds are planted in nurseries and the cuttings are rooted in fertile soil. The young plants are then transplanted into well-drained, sunny fields. During their growth, tiare plants require regular watering and proper fertilization. They are also protected from pests and diseases.
The tiare flower reaches full bloom after approximately two to three years. The flowers are harvested early in the morning, as this is when they release their most intense fragrance. The picked flowers are carefully sorted to select the most beautiful and freshest. Once harvested, the tiare flowers are used fresh to make flower necklaces or to extract their essence by macerating them in coconut oil, creating monoi oil.
What did you know about the tiare flower in perfumery?
The first step in creating a tiare flower fragrance is harvesting the flowers. The flowers are picked in French Polynesia or Reunion Island early in the morning, when their scent is strongest. Afterward, they are processed to extract their fragrance. To do this, experts will enfleurage the flowers. That is, the tiare flowers are placed under a layer of fat, the most commonly used being coconut oil. Then, the fragrance is left to infuse for several days. At the end of the effleurage process, the fat is then washed with alcohol to extract the flower's fragrance. Finally, once the tiare flower's fragrance has been extracted, all that remains is to compose the base of the perfume, which is generally a combination of water and alcohol.
As a result, the tiare flower exudes a sweet, smooth, and captivating fragrance. Its aroma is often described as floral, tropical, and slightly sweet. It evokes exotic notes and is reminiscent of a seaside vacation. The scent of the tiare flower is considered very pleasant and relaxing, evoking a feeling of freshness and well-being.
Finally, the tiare flower blends harmoniously with several olfactory accords. It pairs particularly well with exotic notes such as coconut, jasmine, and frangipani. It can also be combined with fruity notes such as pineapple or mango, as well as light woody notes such as sandalwood or cedar to create balanced and captivating fragrances.
Good to know!
The tiare flower has various cosmetic benefits. In fact, monoi is a natural preparation of fresh tiare flowers, macerated in copra oil (the white pulp of coconut). As a result, it is incredibly rich for the skin. In oil form, it is ultra-nourishing. In addition, thanks to the molecules it contains, it becomes an effective antiseptic. For anyone who wants to have a beautiful tan this summer, the flower is an excellent after-sun, moisturizing, it enhances the tan and leaves the skin soft. However, despite the fact that it helps with tanning, the oil is not a sunscreen, contrary to popular belief!
For hair, the oil can be used on damp hair and ends to prevent split ends. On dry hair, you can leave it on your lengths like a restorative mask. It's also a great help in protecting your hair from the sun! Finally, whether added a few drops to a warm bath or as a massage oil, the flower has relaxing components that help you unwind.
UNUSUAL! In Tahiti, tradition dictates that the tiare flower is worn on the left or right behind the ear to indicate a person's marital status. If the tiare flower is worn on the left, it means the person is married or in a relationship. On the other hand, if the flower is worn on the right, it indicates that the person is single or available.
Famous perfumes with tiare flower
The tiare flower is often used to create sweet, warm and intoxicating fragrances, often used in luxurious perfumes, among the most famous, you surely know:
• L'Air du temps by Nina Ricci is an eau de parfum that was the very first fragrance with so-called solar notes to become very popular. Combined with frangipani flower, ylang-ylang and carnation, this fragrance with a scent reminds us of the warmth of the islands.
• Nuxe 's Huile prodigieuse, released in 1992, uses the charms of the tiare flower to create a subtle cosmetic product, leaving a sweet scent on tanned skin.
• Terracotta by Guerlain is an eau de parfum that feels like an invitation to travel to the sun. This sensual and irresistible fragrance is inspired by the world of terracotta powder. Tiare flower, combined with base notes of coconut milk and vanilla, creates the exoticism of this perfume.
• La Fille de L'Air Monoï by Courrèges , here, tiare flower takes its place in the base notes, alongside the comforting and sweet aroma of vanilla. This combination brings a touch of tropical allure and creamy warmth, while the top notes of neroli and bergamot offer a refreshing and citrusy start. The heart note, orange blossom, adds a delicate floral accord, completing the overall composition and creating a captivating olfactory experience for women.
• Estée Lauder Bronze Goddess features the tiare flower with its delicate, sunny floral notes. It evokes a tropical, summery ambiance, reminiscent of warm sandy beaches and exotic sunsets. The tiare flower eau de toilette offers a refreshing and captivating olfactory experience, perfect for sunny days and relaxing moments.
Thus, the tiare flower is most often used in the world of perfumery to create an exotic and sunny effect to the fragrance. However, when combined with other fragrances, the tiare flower can make a perfume sensual and luxurious.
