Essential Oil Families

Do you ever wonder what constitutes a Chypre fragrance, or an Aquatic? Is your favorite perfume called an Oriental Floral, but you don’t know why? You are not alone. Most consumers don’t realize that each fragrance is a member of an olfactory group. There are six main families that each have their respective sub-families. While knowing these groups is not essential to wearing perfume, it is helpful to know what olfactory groups appeal to you most when looking for a new fragrance to wear for yourself or a loved one. Below is a list of the perfume ingredients found in each family, with the most popular essential oils used to create each group and their respective sub-groups.

Floral - Feminine and Romantic

The most popular group used in women’s fragrance, florals can be based on a combination (bouquet) of flowers including rose, peony, tuberose, lily and jasmine or a single flower note (soliflore).

Chypre - Timeless and Original

This fragrance family is built on distinctive top notes of oak moss, bergamot, patchouli, and labdanum. The result is a strong and spicy fragrance with a powdery finish.

Citrus - Fresh and Clean

The predominant note in this family is composed of a sparkling citrus fruit. Bergamot, orange, mandarin, tangerine, lemon and grapefruit are commonly used.

Oriental - Exotic and Rich

The heavy sweetness of sandalwood, musk and vanilla characterize this spicy, exotic family. Also known as the amber family, it captures the deep, rich and musky tones of the orient.