Fragrance Types and Their Uses

Feeling stressed? In a bad mood? Are people just being jerks? I know the feeling. This might sound weird, but you should spray a little perfume on or light a scented candle.

Aromatherapy has been used since the beginning of time to arouse moods. Today, essential oils like lavender are commonly used in fragrances and some baby bath soaps to calm and soothe. Celtic women even used lavender to attract men back in the day. Interesting right? There are six distinct fragrances in perfumes and colognes.

Citrus which is made up of lime, lemon, tangerine and mandarin increase alertness and can energize the senses. This is found in more women's fragrances than in men's.

Chypre is a mixture of herbs and wood scents like patchouli, bergamot and oak moss. It got its name from the French word Cypress.

Gourmand is the smell of sweets. It isn't common in perfumes but is found in many lotions. Ulta makes their body wash in gourmand scents like cocoa and strawberry. These are great for bubble baths. Yum. If you find it in a perfume, I wouldn't doubt it giving off "edible" as a subconscious message to those you choose to wear it around.

Florals are the most popular female scent. Most floral scents are infused with rose. They're feminine, timeless and romantic.

Fougere is floral but includes earthy notes such as lavender and oak moss. The mix makes a stronger scent. The best example is Cool Water - one of my favorites growing up.

Lastly, there are Orientals which are warmer scents that include vanilla and cinnamon notes. These scents usually last longer. Do you remember Poison by Dior? It's quite strong and warm, almost musky.

What kinds of aromas stimulate you?