Character
The Story of Oregano
A rare heart note in perfumery, Origanum vulgare delivers an intensely herbal signature dominated by carvacrol. Its profile combines sharp phenolic warmth with woody undertones, creating the sensation of a sun-baked Mediterranean hillside. The ingredient proves difficult to dose at high dilutions but provides an unmistakable authenticity when handled with restraint.
Heritage
The name oregano derives from the Greek words 'oros' (mountain) and 'ganos' (joy or beauty), translating to 'joy of the mountain.' Ancient Greeks adorned brides and victors with oregano wreaths, believing the herb conferred happiness and protected against evil. The plant has grown wild across Mediterranean hillsides for millennia, prized as much for its aromatic intensity as for its culinary applications. In perfumery, oregano represents a relatively modern discovery, gaining traction among niche fragrance houses seeking authentic Mediterranean herbal signatures.
At a Glance
1
Feature this note
Greece
Primary source region
Ingredient Details
Steam distillation
Leaves and flowering tops
Did You Know
"Carvacrol can constitute up to 85% of oregano essential oil, making it one of the highest single-molecule concentrations found in natural perfumery ingredients."