Eucalpytus Scent Trend

Eucalyptus Scent Trend

One of the more interesting trends emerging in the world of perfumery is the rediscovery of eucalyptus oil. Niche perfumers in particular are blending in the clean aromatic ingredient into artisanal eau de parfums to create a cool, calming effect. Eucalyptus has a very soothing, relaxing character that works well during these times of extreme change. The oil, steam distilled from the eucalyptus leaf can have a woody scent with a slightly fruity nuance depending on the location and climate of where the leaves were harvested. Perfumers classify the ingredient under the “woody & mossy” category.

Most people know the name eucalyptus as the favourite food of a very famous animal: Australia’s koala. These adorable bears can eat up to three pounds worth of leaves per day. (They actually sleep more than 18 hours per day and prefer to feed at night.) The tree is a genus of over seven hundred species of flowering trees and shrubs in the myrtle family. The fruit is a woody capsule commonly referred to as a “gunmet”. Over three-quarters of Australian forests are composed of eucalyptus trees. And the name itself comes from the Greek words eu-meaning, well and kaluptus, meaning well-covered, which describes the tree’s protective covering.

If you hold up a eucalyptus leaf up to the light, you will see tiny pin pricks of white or yellow, which is the oil in the tissue of the leaf. Crush the leaf and you will release the oil into the palm of your hand. You’ll smell the clean, aromatic scent and feel the silky texture. The aroma is loved by both men and women.

Eucalyptus oil is a brilliant multi-tasking ingredient that is used in cleaning solvents, as an antiseptic, for deodorizing and even in cough drops and toothpaste. Perfumers often use it in the heart notes blending the oil with floral notes such as lily of the valley, rose, peony and iris. It’s a strong note so only a tiny amount is needed in any composition.

Our favourite eucalyptus-themed scent this season comes from Britain’s Atkinsons brand, a niche perfumer established in 1799. The brand’s 44 Gerrard Street is a wonderful example of how eucalyptus notes are being reimagined for a new generation. It’s an aromatic-citrus scent for him or her with an optimistic, uplifting character. You’ll find notes of lime, ginger, eucalyptus, rose, jasmine, orchid, amber and woods. It’s refreshing and happy. This is reflected in the vibrant orange bottle. The name is an homage to the address of James Atkinsons’ first laboratory where he blended fragrances for the Royal Court of England – many of the scents still popular today. The fragrance is available in Canada exclusively at Holt Renfrew and worth trying if you get a chance.