The scent of the Mediterranean Maquis: helichrysum
With its unmistakable aromatic profile, the Mediterranean Maquis is a constant presence in our summer landscapes. Its shrubby vegetation, consisting of tough and wild aromatic plants, plays a leading role in Mediterranean coastal landscapes and serves as a reservoir of scents. From thyme to juniper, from rockrose to myrtle, through broom, helichrysum, and rosemary, the fragrances emanating from the Mediterranean Maquis blend with the scent of the sea breeze, characterizing our most vacation-filled memories.
In Mediterranean tradition, the aromatic flowers that grow naturally in the region have always been used in cooking, as well as in medicine and the creation of aromatic waters. Among the plants that make up the bouquet of scents in this special ecosystem, helichrysum is one of the most commonly used in fragrances that evoke the scents of the Mediterranean Maquis. Belonging to the Asteraceae family, its name comes from the Greek words "helios" (sun) and "chrysos" (gold), which is highly evocative. Helichrysum presents small bright yellow flowers and grows in very sunny places, even resisting water scarcity. In fact, in France, it is called "immortelle" precisely for its ability to survive in difficult conditions.
The essential oil extracted from helichrysum flowers is used in perfumery. It is characterized by an intense and rich aroma with nuances of candied or dried fruit, hay and honey, and a hint that lies somewhere between licorice and curry. It is an essence as aromatic as it is capable of evoking the richness of Mediterranean flora, bringing to mind a walk in a pine forest or an excursion on a Mediterranean island.
How to enclose the unmistakable aroma the Mediterranean Maquis in a fragrance? At Aquaflor, we have created a room fragrance that represents the olfactory tale of the road that leads to the sea. Malvarosa is an aromatic description of typical Mediterranean landscapes that enchant with their wild notes.
Geranium, with its relaxing floral note, finds its full expression harmonizing with Mediterranean herbs and the fresh scent of fig leaves, delicately milky. It is a green, highly aromatic fragrance, perfect for a seaside home, a bath, or anywhere you want to recreate a feeling of sunny carefreeness.