The scent of Evernia Prunastri, often referred to as Oakmoss, is typically described as deeply earthy and slightly woody. It exudes rich, mossy notes which suggest a sense of forest-like freshness. This unique scent profile is why it’s commonly used in the perfume industry, particularly in chypre fragrances. Some people also observe green, bark-like undertones in its aroma, further enhancing its natural, outdoorsy appeal.
What Is Evernia Prunastri Used For?
This lichen is found on oak trees and has been harvested for centuries to be used as a natural fixative and fragrance enhancer. The fragrance of Evernia prunastri is earthy and rich, making it a popular choice in perfumery.
Oakmoss is used in a variety of perfumes, from classic fragrances like Chanel No. 5 and Guerlain Mitsouko to modern scents like Tom Ford Tobacco Vanille and Creed Aventus. It’s also used in skincare products and cosmetics for it’s unique scent.
It was believed to have healing properties and was used to treat ailments such as bronchitis and asthma. In traditional medicine, it was also used as an antiseptic and disinfectant.
It’s unique fragrance adds depth and richness to complex scents and is highly valued by perfumers. With careful harvesting and sustainable practices, this lichen will continue to play an important role in the fragrance industry.
) Zopf (Parmeliaceae), commonly known as ‘tree moss’, harvested from conifer trees. These lichens are used as a source of fragrant compounds, known as ‘oakmoss absolute’ and ‘tree moss absolute’, which are used in a wide range of perfumes and fragrances. However, the use of these lichens has come under scrutiny in recent years due to concerns around sustainability and potential health risks.
What Lichen Is Used in Perfume?
) Zopf (Parmeliaceae), also known as tree moss. These species are utilized for their rich, earthy, and oakmoss scent. It’s mainly used for chypre fragrances but is also used in various perfumes, in combination with other ingredients. Lichens are a unique and fascinating group of organisms, which is a highly valued source of natural fragrances in perfumes.
Lichen is a composite organism that arises from the symbiosis between a fungus and a photosynthetic partner, often an alga or a cyanobacterium. The resulting organism has characteristics that are intermediate between those of a fungus and those of a plant. Lichen formations can be found in different habitats, including rocks, trees, and soil, and can thrive in extreme weather conditions such as high altitude, low temperature, and high humidity.
For many centuries, lichen has been used for various purposes. The fragrance industry has made it an important constituent of perfumes because of it’s unique scent. These compounds are extracted through a process called enfleurage, which involves soaking the lichen in alcohol to capture it’s aroma.
It provides a renewable and sustainable source of fragrance that’s been appreciated for centuries.
The History of Using Lichen in Perfumes When Did It Start and How Has It Evolved Over Time?
Lichen has been used in perfumes for centuries and it’s use dates back to ancient civilizations. Over time, the process of extracting lichen has become more sophisticated and the variety of perfumes that use lichen has expanded. Today, lichen is still used in perfumes as a natural and sustainable ingredient that provides unique and long-lasting fragrance.
Source: Lichen extracts as raw materials in perfumery. Part 1: oakmoss
In describing the scent profile of Evernia, it’s evident that this fragrance is a harmonious blend of floral, spice, and woody notes. With the soft interlacing of lily, freesia, orris, and violet, all fanned with the unmistakable aroma and tenacity of oakmoss, Evernia creates a sense of allure that’s both captivating and irresistible. Moroccan rose and cardamom add sweetness and intensity respectively, while cashmeran, sandalwood, and musk bring an underlying softness and sensuality to the scent.
What Does Evernia Smell Like?
Evernia is a type of perfume known for it’s soft, floral fragrance. The scent is characterized by a complex interplay of different notes including lily, freesia, orris, and violet. These floral components work together to create an elegant, feminine scent that’s perfect for any occasion. The fragrance of Evernia is further enhanced by the unmistakable aroma and tenacity of oakmoss. This woody, earthy note helps to ground the floral components of the perfume, making it feel more grounded and long-lasting.
One of the most distinctive notes in Evernia is Moroccan rose. This beautiful flower adds a delicate sweetness to the scent that’s both enchanting and unforgettable. The rose note is perfectly balanced by the intense wave of spice provided by cardamom. This spicy note adds depth and complexity to the scent while keeping it from becoming too sweet or cloying.
The base of Evernia is composed of cashmeran, sandalwood, and musk. These notes give the perfume it’s underlying softness and sensuality. Cashmeran has a warm, comforting quality that makes the wearer feel cozy and comfortable. Sandalwood is a classic ingredient in perfumery that adds a rich, woody depth to the fragrance. Finally, musk provides a subtle, animalic note that adds to the sensuality of the scent.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the scent of oakmoss is a testament to the intricate elegance of the natural world and it’s ability to produce captivating and complex fragrances that have the power to captivate our senses.
