Did you know that fragrances and perfumes can be traced all the way back to Ancient Mesopotamia? Historically, fragrance was associated with royalty and the ultra-wealthy, but today, it plays an important part in our every-day lives
So what is it about fragrance that makes it so special? Have you ever smelt a specific scent and felt yourself being transported to another time or place? Fragrance is closely linked to memory and emotion, and just the hint of a familiar scent has the ability to conjure up a memory or trigger an emotion. The scent of freshly baked biscuits might transport you back to your childhood, the smell of lavender might remind you of your grandmother, or perhaps the scent of a room freshener reminds you of a home you once lived in.
There is so much more to a fragrance than just the top, heart and base notes. We’re tempted to go as far as to say that scent is magical. It never ends the way it begins. It has the ability to change a person’s mood or state of mind. A few spritzes of your favourite perfume could lift your spirits or boost your confidence. Perfumes are multifaceted, and hold the power to capture, enchant, and even seduce.
While no one knows the exact date that the first perfume was made, fragrance dates back to at least Ancient Egypt and Ancient Mesopotamia, where it was associated with the gods. In fact, the Egyptian god Nefertum, the god of perfume, is also known as the god of healing, which makes perfect sense when you consider the healing powers of scent.
The first recorded perfumer was a lady by the name Tapputi, a chemist working in Ancient Mesopotamia in around 1200 BCE. In these times perfumes were used for hygiene and cleanliness, as well as ceremonially and as a symbol of nobility. Early perfume was made using natural materials such as bark, wood, roots, leaves, flowers and seeds. Before long, the Greeks and Romans became aware of the benefits of scent, and perfume was manufactured throughout the world. It is believed that in 1190, the Parisians began to produce perfume commercially, and that this was the start of the industry.
Today we are spoilt for choice: from florals, to woods, to Oriental, to fresh scents, there is something for everyone. No matter what your preference, there is a scent that will resonate with it.
Why not expand your fragrance collection this National Fragrance Day? If you’ve yet to find your signature scent, or you’re on the hunt for something brand new, then one of these new launches might be just up your alley:
Mercedes Benz Pop Eau de Parfum (R1295.95 for 60ml) is a new eye-catching, trendy fragrance for women that is simultaneously energetic and addictive. An expression of a youthful and colourful life, this feminine Oriental-floral encompasses the dynamism of bergamot and mandarin, the softness of frangipani and jasmine sambac and the seduction of sandalwood and vanilla.
Mercedes Benz Man Bright Eau de Parfum (R1695.95 for 100ml) is a woody aromatic scent for the charismatic man. Modern and futuristic, this elegant fragrance is zesty and energising thanks to opening notes of pink pepper and bergamot. Lavandin, incense SFE and jasmine at the heart give the scent a modern take while cedarwood, white musk and tonka bean base notes are to thank for its sensual side.
