What is the Shape Theory of Olfaction?

The shape theory of olfaction, also known as the lock-and-key theory, is a scientific explanation of how the sense of smell works. It proposes that the olfactory system recognises and distinguishes different odour molecules based...

If diamonds had a smell what would they smell like?

Diamonds are made up of pure carbon, and as such, they do not have a scent or fragrance. Diamonds are odourless and are generally considered to be inert materials, meaning they do not interact chemically...

Why is ambergris banned when its use is not harmful to whales?

Ambergris is a rare and highly valued ingredient in perfumery, and it is derived from the intestinal secretions of sperm whales. While ambergris is not harmful to whales, it is illegal to harvest and sell...

What goes into an 'Upcycled' Perfume?

Upcycling is the process of transforming byproducts, waste materials, or unwanted products into new materials or products of better quality or environmental value. In perfume making, upcycling can involve using discarded or unused natural materials...

The Scent of 'Sweat'

Global warming is a fact. Our planet is getting hotter and by corollary we are also getting sweatier  Sweat itself is odourless, but when it comes into contact with bacteria on our skin, it can...

The Flowers we like to Write About and their Meanings

Flowers have been a popular theme in literature throughout history, with each flower often carrying its own symbolism and meaning. Here are some examples of flowers commonly referenced in literature and their associated symbolism:Roses: Roses...

Can Perfume be considered Spiritual?

Perfume can be considered spiritual in the sense that it has the ability to evoke emotions and memories, and can be used in religious and spiritual practices. Fragrances have been used in religious and spiritual...

Is the human sense of smell a diminishing skill?

There is evidence to suggest that the human sense of smell may be declining in some populations, particularly in industrialized countries. A study published in the journal Chemical Senses in 2002 found that the ability...

The Secret Scent of a Juicy Peach

Peaches do contain essential oils, but the amount present is very small, making it impractical to extract them for commercial purposes. Additionally, the delicate nature of the peach fruit and its high water content makes...

How many different smells can the human nose differentiate?

It is difficult to provide an exact number for how many different smells the human nose can differentiate as the human sense of smell is incredibly complex and varies from one person to another.Scientists estimate...

Discovering Tonka Bean as an ingredient in Bukhoor

Tonka bean is a fragrant seed from the tonka tree, which is native to South America. It has a sweet and warm aroma that is often described as a combination of vanilla, almond, and cinnamon....

Benzoin, from Siam to Sumatra

Benzoin Sumatra and Benzoin Siam are both types of resin that are commonly used in bukhoor and other aromatic applications. When burnt, they release a distinctive aroma that is slightly different between the two types. Benzoin is a...

Discovering Oakmoss as an ingredient in Bukhoor

Oakmoss is a type of lichen that grows on the bark of oak trees and other deciduous trees. It is commonly used in perfumes, colognes, and other fragrances because of its earthy, musky aroma. When...

What is the difference between an Essential Oil, Concrete, Absolute & Resinoid?

An Essential Oil, Concrete, Absolute & Resinoid are all different types of concentrated plant extracts, but they differ in their extraction method, chemical composition, and properties. An essential oil is a highly concentrated liquid that...

Weather and its Impact on our Ability to Smell

Did you know that weather effects more than our mood. We actually smell better under certain weather conditions. The ease and difficulty of smelling can be influenced by several weather factors, these include the following factors...