Fragrance, also called parfum or cologne, refers to any substance or mixture of substances intended to convey a scent, mask an odor, or both. It can come from natural sources or be synthetically manufactured, as in the fragrances used in scented household products such as Febreze spray. Fragrance chemicals may have tens of thousands of individual ingredients. Most are listed on the label under the generic term “fragrance.” These chemicals can cause a variety of health problems including skin irritation and allergic reactions.
A fine perfume has three structural parts: the top note, or head notes, which are the most volatile and quickly evaporate; the middle or heart notes that provide full, solid character; and the base notes, which are more lasting odours such as oak moss or vetiver (derived from an aromatic grass known as khus kuhl, or yarrow) [1]. Perfumes are generally classified according to one or more identifiable dominant odours: floral blends contain odours such as jasmine, rose, and lily of the valley; spicy blends include aromas such as pepper, clove, and cinnamon; and woody blends are dominated by odours like sandalwood, cedarwood, or yarrow.
Perfumes were first used as body odour maskers in Europe during the Renaissance and early 19th century, writes Muchembled. Historically, people in cities could not escape the stench of human and animal excrement splattered on streets. But the scents of clean-smelling flowers, herbs, and foods helped them forget about such repulsive odours. In fact, as late as the 18th century, France became the European center of perfume and cosmetic manufacture. The court of Louis XV was known as “la cour parfumee.” Perfumed gloves were worn, and even furniture was scented.