Botanical fragranceis one of humanity’s oldest art forms. Long before modern laboratories and synthetic aroma molecules, scent was shaped entirely by nature — through flowers, woods, resins, herbs, and spices. Today, as interest in ingredient transparency, sustainability, and authenticity grows, plant-based fragrance creation is once again at the centre of modern perfumery.
This guide explores natural perfume creation in depth: the ingredients involved, how they are extracted, how they behave on skin, what performance to realistically expect, and how contemporary fragrance houses work with these materials to create refined, wearable compositions.
Each plant contains a complex mix of naturally occurring aromatic molecules. This complexity gives botanical compositions their depth and variability, but also makes them more challenging to formulate than synthetic fragrances.
Why Botanical Fragrance Composition Is More Complex Than It Appears
One common misconception is that natural perfume is simpler or less sophisticated. In reality, it is often more demanding.
Reasons include:
Natural materials vary by harvest, climate, and origin
Yield can be extremely low (thousands of flowers for a small amount of oil)
Ingredients behave differently on each wearer’s skin
Stability and balance must be achieved without synthetic fixatives
A single botanical fragrance may contain dozens of plant materials, each contributing to top, heart, or base notes.
Botanical Ingredient Families Explained in Detail
1. Floral Ingredients (The Heart of Many Compositions)
Floral materials often define the emotional character of a scent. They are among the most expensive and labour-intensive botanical ingredients.
Floral Material
Scent Profile
Notes / Usage
Rose (Otto & Absolute)
Rich, honeyed, green, spicy
Used sparingly due to cost; adds elegance, warmth, and depth
Extremely long-lasting; highly prized in luxury fragrances; adds depth, mystery, and complexity; often blended with resins, spices, and florals to create opulent bases
Teak / Rosewood (optional variants)
Rich, dry, slightly sweet wood
Enhances complexity and layered depth; used sparingly in high-end botanical compositions
Birch Tar
Smoky, leathery, slightly medicinal
Adds intensity and character; used in small amounts to create dark, mysterious facets in natural fragrances
5. Resins, Balsams, and Gums (Depth and Longevity)
Resins are essential in botanical fragrance for warmth and fixation.
Resin / Balsam
Scent Profile / Characteristics
Notes / Usage / Aromatic Impact
Frankincense (Olibanum)
Citrusy-resinous, sweet, slightly spicy, woody
Adds brightness and lift to base notes; often used in incense-style or meditative compositions; blends well with woods and florals; excellent for longevity
Myrrh
Warm, earthy, balsamic, slightly medicinal
Adds depth and richness; balances florals and spices; often used in oriental and resin-heavy compositions
Benzoin
Sweet, vanilla-like, balsamic
Softens harsher notes; adds warmth and comfort; excellent for creamy oriental bases; can act as a natural fixative
Labdanum
Amber-rich, leathery, resinous, slightly smoky
Provides depth and intensity; often used to replace or support synthetic amber notes; blends beautifully with spices, woods, and florals
Elemi
Fresh, citrusy-resinous, slightly peppery
Adds lift and sparkle to resins-heavy compositions; excellent for bridging top and heart notes; supports citrus and woody materials
Peru Balsam
Sweet, warm, vanilla-like, balsamic
Enhances warmth and softness; complements woods, resins, and spices; often used in gourmand-style botanical fragrances
Tolu Balsam
Rich, warm, sweet, balsamic
Adds depth and longevity; supports oriental and woody bases; softens spicy or resinous blends; excellent as a natural fixative
These materials slow evaporation and provide a rich, amber-like base.
6. Spices and Warm Botanicals
Spices bring vibrancy and contrast.
Spice / Warm Botanical
Scent Profile / Characteristics
Notes / Usage / Aromatic Impact
Cardamom
Sweet, aromatic, slightly citrusy
Adds freshness and subtle warmth; bridges citrus top notes and resinous or woody bases; common in oriental and spicy blends
Cinnamon (Bark & Leaf)
Warm, sweet, spicy, slightly resinous
Adds richness and energy; used sparingly to avoid overpowering; complements florals, woods, and resins
Clove Bud
Rich, warm, slightly medicinal, eugenol-driven
Provides depth and intensity; excellent in oriental or spicy compositions; enhances longevity and complexity
Black Pepper
Sharp, dry, slightly woody
Adds bite and vibrancy; used in top or heart notes for dynamic contrast; blends well with citrus and resinous materials
Ginger
Zesty, warm, slightly spicy, fresh
Adds lift and energizing character; enhances citrus and floral notes; commonly used in fresh oriental blends
Nutmeg
Sweet-spicy, warm, aromatic
Adds subtle warmth and complexity; complements vanilla, resins, and woody notes; often used in heart and base notes
Coriander
Warm, slightly citrusy, aromatic, green
Adds a fresh, herbaceous-spicy lift; bridges citrus top notes and resinous bases; often used in unisex and green compositions
Pink Pepper
Fruity, spicy, rosy, slightly sweet
Adds sparkling brightness and vibrancy; commonly used in modern floral-oriental and woody compositions; enhances top and heart notes
Juniper
Fresh, pine-like, slightly resinous
Adds crisp, clean freshness; often used in aromatic or woody blends; complements citrus and herbal notes; brings clarity and lift
Used carefully, spices add energy without overwhelming the composition.
7. Gourmand and Sweet Botanical Notes
Sweetness in botanical scent does not come from artificial accords.
Sweet / Gourmand Botanical
Scent Profile / Characteristics
Notes / Usage / Aromatic Impact
Vanilla Absolute
Warm, creamy, sweet, comforting
Adds softness and gourmand richness; blends well with resins, woods, and spices; enhances longevity and smoothness of compositions
Tonka Bean
Sweet, warm, slightly spicy, almond-like
Provides depth and richness; supports vanilla and resinous notes; commonly used in oriental and gourmand fragrances
Benzoin Resin
Sweet, vanilla-like, balsamic
Softens harsher notes; adds warmth, comfort, and richness; acts as a natural fixative in botanical fragrances
Cacao Absolute
Rich, chocolatey, slightly bitter-sweet
Adds gourmand depth and complexity; works well with vanilla, tonka, and warm spices; contributes to sensual, edible-like accords
Carrot Seed
Earthy, sweet, slightly herbal
Adds subtle sweetness and earthiness; bridges floral and woody notes; used to enhance natural, skin-like warmth
These soften compositions and add comfort.
Extraction Methods and Why They Matter in Botanical Fragrance
The quality, character, and performance of any botanical fragrance are directly influenced by how its plant ingredients are extracted. Different methods capture distinct aromatic compounds, affect intensity, and even change how the scent evolves on the skin. Understanding these processes is key to appreciating why natural fragrances smell so complex and nuanced.
1. Steam Distillation
Steam distillation is the most traditional and widely used method for extracting essential oils from woods, herbs, and many florals.
Process: Steam passes through plant material, vaporizing volatile compounds, which are then condensed and separated from water.
Impact on botanical fragrance: Produces clean, clear, and vibrant essential oils. However, extremely delicate flowers may lose some of their subtler notes.
Common uses: Lavender, rosemary, sandalwood, vetiver.
Steam-distilled oils are excellent for creating fresh, bright top notes and heart components that retain the essence of the raw plant.
2. Cold Pressing
Cold pressing is primarily used for citrus peels, such as bergamot, lemon, and grapefruit.
Process: Mechanical pressure extracts oil directly from the peel without heat.
Impact on botanical fragrance: Preserves the bright, zesty freshness and natural nuances of citrus. However, these oils are highly photosensitive and must be handled carefully in skin-safe formulations.
Common uses: Citrus top notes, uplifting and energizing compositions.
Cold-pressed oils give botanical fragrances their sparkling, immediate freshness, which is often the first impression when applied.
3. Solvent Extraction
Some delicate flowers, such as jasmine or tuberose, cannot withstand steam distillation without losing key aromatic compounds. Solvent extraction produces absolutes from these fragile botanicals.
Process: A chemical solvent draws out aromatic compounds, which are then separated and purified to yield a concentrated absolute.
Impact on botanical fragrance: Absolutes retain the full, rich complexity of the original flower. They provide depth and intensity, particularly in heart notes.
Common uses: Jasmine, tuberose, mimosa, orange blossom.
Solvent-extracted absolutes allow perfumers to recreate true-to-nature floral expressions that are otherwise difficult to capture.
4. CO₂ Extraction
CO₂ extraction is a modern method that preserves the most delicate, heat-sensitive aromatic compounds.
Process: Carbon dioxide is pressurized into a supercritical state and used as a solvent to extract essential oils. Once the pressure is released, pure oil remains without solvent residues.
Impact on botanical fragrance: Produces oils that are very close to the smell of the raw plant, often richer and more rounded than steam-distilled oils. They also retain subtle green or resinous notes that other methods may lose.
Common uses: Jasmine, rose, woods, and spices requiring high fidelity.
CO₂ extracts are prized in luxury botanical fragrances because they allow perfumers to work with oils that smell remarkably natural and layered.
5. Why Extraction Method Matters for Botanical Fragrance
Every extraction method contributes to the aromatic fingerprint of a botanical fragrance:
Determines scent strength and volatility (how quickly a fragrance evaporates).
Influences longevity on the skin, especially in the base and heart notes.
Affects the blending behavior with other natural ingredients.
Preserves or alters subtle nuances that give the fragrance its character.
When exploring or purchasing a botanical fragrance, knowing the extraction method can provide insight into why it smells the way it does, how it will wear throughout the day, and how the perfumer has worked to balance nature and artistry.
Types of Botanical Fragrance Formats
Botanical fragrance compositions are available in several formats, each offering a unique way to experience plant-based scents. Among these, alcohol-based sprays are often favored by modern perfumers and fragrance lovers for their versatility and diffusion.
Alcohol-Based Sprays provide excellent projection, allowing the fragrance to disperse evenly in the air and create a more noticeable presence. The alcohol helps unlock the top notes instantly, making the first impression bright, vibrant, and lively. This format is particularly well-suited to layering with other natural perfume or personal care products. In high-quality compositions, such as those from Prosody London, alcohol-based botanical fragrances can last 6–12 hours, maintaining complexity and depth from top to base notes, which is longer than typical commercial sprays.
Oil-Based Blends sit closer to the skin and evaporate more slowly, offering a softer, more intimate experience. They excel at emphasizing heart and base notes, allowing the warmth and richness of woods, resins, and spices to develop over time. While they project less than sprays, they provide a natural, skin-like aura and can be ideal for subtle, personal wear.
Solid Fragrances, such as balms or wax-based perfumes, are compact and portable. They diffuse slowly and subtly, making them perfect for touch-ups or situations where strong projection is not desired. They are also excellent for maintaining the integrity of delicate botanical extracts.
Traditional Attars are highly concentrated, aged oils, often combining multiple botanicals, resins, and spices. They are luxurious, long-lasting, and evolve beautifully on the skin over hours, revealing intricate layers that reflect traditional perfumery craftsmanship.
Performance Expectations: Honest Answers
A botanical fragrance behaves differently from conventional, synthetic-heavy perfumes, and understanding its natural characteristics can help set realistic expectations. Plant-based compositions tend to have softer projection, creating a more intimate, personal aura rather than a powerful, room-filling scent. They evolve naturally over time, revealing top, heart, and base notes gradually, which adds nuance and complexity but also makes longevity more variable depending on the ingredients used.
To get the most from a natural perfume, there are a few practical tips. Applying it to moisturized skin helps the oils adhere and extend wear. Targeting pulse points, such as wrists, inner elbows, and behind the ears, can enhance diffusion without overwhelming the senses. Choosing compositions rich in resins, woods, and fixative botanicals will generally increase longevity and depth. If needed, a light reapplication during the day can refresh the scent without masking its natural evolution.
By embracing the softer, evolving nature of a botanical fragrance, wearers can enjoy a more personal and sophisticated scent experience that highlights the artistry of natural ingredients rather than forcing projection or artificial longevity.
Chemistry and Safety: What You Need to Know
While a botanical fragrance is made from natural plant ingredients, “natural” does not automatically mean hypoallergenic or risk-free.” Some essential oils and absolutes can irritate sensitive skin, and citrus-derived oils, in particular, may be photosensitive, causing reactions when exposed to sunlight. Proper dilution and careful formulation are essential to ensure safe use, especially when combining multiple potent botanicals.
The fragrance industry follows strict guidelines for ingredient safety, overseen by the International Fragrance Association (IFRA). IFRA sets limits on potentially sensitizing compounds and ensures that fragrances are safe for skin contact and daily wear. While many natural perfume brands may not fully adhere to IFRA standards, Prosody London creates botanical fragrances that are 100% IFRA-compliant, combining the beauty and authenticity of plant-based ingredients with rigorous safety standards. This ensures that wearers can enjoy long-lasting, luxurious natural scents without compromising on safety.
For consumers ofnatural perfume, awareness of skin sensitivity, proper patch testing, and attention to ingredient sources remain key, even when using high-quality, compliant formulations.Patch testing is always recommended.
Common Myths About Botanical Fragrance
Myth: All botanical fragrances smell the same Truth: The careful selection and balance of flowers, herbs, woods, spices, and resins creates enormous diversity, resulting in unique and signature scents.
Myth: Botanical scents don’t last Truth: Properly structured compositions with resins, woods, and fixative botanicals can last for hours, evolving naturally on the skin.
Myth: Plant-based fragrances are simple Truth: They are often more complex than synthetic-heavy perfumes, as natural ingredient variability adds depth and subtle nuance to each composition.
Modern Botanical Fragrance Craft
Today’s natural perfume craft blends centuries-old knowledge of plants with modern perfumery techniques to create scents that are both wearable and emotionally resonant. Unlike synthetic-heavy compositions, the focus is not on mimicking artificial aromas, but on achieving balance, depth, and longevity using nature’s own materials. This approach places a high value on ingredient integrity, ensuring that each component is authentic and of high quality; transparency, so that consumers understand what goes into their fragrance; meticulous craftsmanship, reflecting the skill and artistry of the perfumer; and responsible sourcing, which supports sustainability and ethical practices. The result is a fragrance that celebrates the richness of the botanical world while meeting the expectations of modern fragrance lovers.
Contemporary Botanical Fragrance Houses
A growing number of modern fragrance houses are applying these principles at a luxury level, demonstrating that plant-based perfumery can be both refined and contemporary.
Prosody London and Botanical Fragrance Craft
At the premium end of botanical fragrance creation, Prosody London represents a modern interpretation of plant-based perfumery. Their approach combines deep botanical knowledge with contemporary fragrance structure, focusing on balance, wearability, and ingredient integrity.
Rather than relying on synthetic shortcuts, Prosody London works extensively with flowers, woods, resins, and spices to create compositions that evolve naturally on the skin. Each scent reflects a commitment to responsible sourcing, thoughtful formulation, and refined olfactory design.
Their work illustrates how botanical fragrance can exist comfortably within modern luxury — expressive, ethical, and uncompromising in quality.
Final Note
Botanical fragrance is not a trend, but a return to perfumery’s roots — reinterpreted through modern understanding and craftsmanship. For those willing to explore beyond mass-produced scents, plant-based compositions offer depth, individuality, and a more intimate relationship with scent itself.
Dedicated to independence and unwavering sustainability, we are wholly committed to the art of organic and all-natural perfumery at Prosody London. Our pledge goes beyond merely matching the creative heights of synthetic fragrances; we aim to surpass them. This commitment propels us into uncharted territories, redefining the boundaries of perfumery in ways unimaginable to most, whether mainstream or niche. In the realm of sustainable, plant-based fragrances, Prosody London pioneers a new art, excluding chemical novelties while unleashing boundless creativity. Our materials are rigorously curated, omitting synthetic elements, yet our imagination remains unrestricted. We push the boundaries of beauty, tirelessly reaching new heights realized through purely natural means. Prosody London represents not just a brand, but a movement—forging a path toward a fragrant future where sustainability and artistry coalesce seamlessly.
Capturing the very essence of allure, the Sweet and Feminine organic perfume collection is all natural symphony that resonates with the diverse desires of women seeking more than a mere fragrance – they yearn for an emotional connection. This curated collection is a journey through sweetness, carefully sorted from the most sweet to the least, offering a range that caters to individual preferences. The irresistible charm of these sweet and feminine perfumes lies in their unparalleled ability to weave memories and emotions into each fragrance, satisfying a woman’s longing for comfort, warmth, and sensuality. Crafted entirely from plant-based ingredients, these natural perfumes not only appeal to the olfactory senses but also serve as an intimate extension of personal expression. PURE BOTANICALS AS OLFACTIVE ART
Our organic and all natural Male Fragrance collection is a musculine symphony of olfactory artistry, crafted with an unwavering commitment to sustainability and purity. In this aromatic tapestry, nature meets sophistication, and the result is a collection that redefines what men should smell like. Drawing inspiration from the organic world, Prosody London seamlessly blends ethically sourced botanicals to create scents that are not just fragrances but an immersive experience. The collection captures the essence of a man who appreciates the subtleties of life and the environment, embodying a balance between strength and tenderness. This collection is a celebration of conscious luxury, where men are invited to embrace scents that not only elevate their personal style but also reflect a deep appreciation for the natural world. In the realm of Prosody London’s organic and natural perfume for men, authenticity and sophistication converge, redefining the very essence of masculine allure. PURE BOTANICALS AS OLFACTIVE ART
Prosody London’s unisex perfume collection represents a contemporary approach to fragrance, embodying a harmonious blend of organic and all-natural elements. For those who find the gendering of scents as either masculine or feminine over stated, our house always seeks to offer creations structured to apeal more widely to both men and women. The brand’s commitment to organic and natural ingredients not only aligns with modern sensibilities but also reflects a growing consciousness towards sustainable luxury. What sets Prosody London apart is its meticulous curation of scents that strike the perfect balance between woody, floral, and fruited notes. This nuanced approach acknowledges the diverse preferences of both sexes, creating an aromatic symphony of subtle and variegated appeal. The interplay of woody undertones provides depth, floral notes add a touch of elegance, and fruited accents bring a refreshing vibrancy. For confidant fragrance wearers this collection opens a myriad opportunities for fresh exploration and discovery. PURE BOTANICALS AS OLFACTIVE ART
Dedicated to independence and unwavering sustainability, we are wholly committed to the art of organic and all-natural perfumery at Prosody London. Our pledge goes beyond merely matching the creative heights of synthetic fragrances; we aim to surpass them. This commitment propels us into uncharted territories, redefining the boundaries of perfumery in ways unimaginable to most, whether mainstream or niche. In the realm of sustainable, plant-based fragrances, Prosody London pioneers a new art, excluding chemical novelties while unleashing boundless creativity. Our materials are rigorously curated, omitting synthetic elements, yet our imagination remains unrestricted. We push the boundaries of beauty, tirelessly reaching new heights realized through purely natural means. Prosody London represents not just a brand, but a movement—forging a path toward a fragrant future where sustainability and artistry coalesce seamlessly.
Wherever you dream of travelling, let your cologne bring you closer. These bright, exciting and enduring fragrances are not just exquisite individually, they also layer superbly with each other. Try a few and find your ideal combinations. “The invention of the talented Kershen Teo, this is a line worth delving into. Teo’s fragrances have a distinctive signature I haven’t quite put my finger on, but they are beautifully composed. Prosody’s new line of colognes is perfect for hot weather but also for long grey days when you yearn to be at a seaside or in fruit tree grove.” Senior Editor Lauryn Beer CaFluereBon”The marvelous botanical fragrance house Prosody London has produced one-of-a-kind scents which tempt the inquisitive nose.” CaFleureBon, Ida Meister, Deputy and Natural Perfumery Editor PURE BOTANICALS AS OLFACTIVE ART
Prosody London’s Male Cologne collection epitomizes sophistication and natural allure, forging an aromatic narrative steeped in organic and natural essences. This assortment goes beyond a mere cologne, redefining the quintessential scent for men. With a commitment to organic luxury, Prosody London crafts scents that embody the multifaceted nature of men, where strength meets subtlety. This male cologne collection becomes an exploration of authenticity, offering a unique blend that exudes confidence without overpowering. Each note harmonizes to create a distinctive and lasting impression, reflecting the brand’s dedication to conscious luxury. In the realm of Prosody London’s male cologne, men are invited to experience an olfactory journey that transcends trends, embodying a timeless sophistication that celebrates their individuality. PURE BOTANICALS AS OLFACTIVE ART
Prosody London’s female cologne collection encapsulates the epitome of elegance and natural allure. Rooted in organic and natural ingredients, this fragrance ensemble redefines what women love to smell like. Picture a harmonious interplay of floral, fruity, and warm resinous notes, creating a sophisticated bouquet that mirrors the multifaceted nature of femininity. The collection evokes a timeless charm, where delicate floral undertones meet the invigorating zest of fruits, elevated by the enveloping warmth of resinous accords. A celebration of authenticity, the Prosody London female cologne collection allows women to envelop themselves in scents that effortlessly reflect their individuality. It goes beyond mere fragrance, becoming a sensorial journey that leaves a distinctive and lasting impression. With a commitment to conscious luxury, Prosody London invites women to experience an olfactory narrative that transcends trends, embodying a refined and timeless aroma that resonates with the discerning modern woman. PURE BOTANICALS AS OLFACTIVE ART
Wherever you dream of travelling, let your cologne bring you closer. These bright, exciting and enduring fragrances are not just exquisite individually, they also layer superbly with each other. Try a few and find your ideal combinations. “The invention of the talented Kershen Teo, this is a line worth delving into. Teo’s fragrances have a distinctive signature I haven’t quite put my finger on, but they are beautifully composed. Prosody’s new line of colognes is perfect for hot weather but also for long grey days when you yearn to be at a seaside or in fruit tree grove.” Senior Editor Lauryn Beer CaFluereBon”The marvelous botanical fragrance house Prosody London has produced one-of-a-kind scents which tempt the inquisitive nose.” CaFleureBon, Ida Meister, Deputy and Natural Perfumery Editor PURE BOTANICALS AS OLFACTIVE ART
Dedicated to beauty, balance, and originality, our organic and all-natural home fragrance collections are meticulously crafted to elevate your space. We embark on a carefully planned journey, unveiling the exquisite qualities of vegan perfumery materials in memorable and uplifting accords. Inspired by the literary riches of English literature, our creations transcend mere scents, offering a sensory experience steeped in sophistication. Esteemed perfume critic Stephan Matthews describes our home fragrances as “seriously evocative,” highlighting their outstanding scent throw. Each fragrance is a manifestation of our commitment to creating a harmonious atmosphere within your home. With a foundation rooted in nature and sustainability, our organic and all-natural home fragrances not only adorn your living space but also elevate it to a realm of unparalleled olfactory delight. PURE BOTANICALS AS OLFACTIVE ART
Prosody is an old English word that means ‘the rhythm and structure of poetry.’ We felt it a fitting name for a maker of perfumes, as perfume too has its rhythms, rhymes, harmonies and surprises. This is nowhere more true than in the domain of all-natural perfumery where everything must be done with the inherent qualities of the beautiful materials available, rather than produced to order with a laboratory effort. Natural materials drive us to greater resourcefulness, experiment and imaginative exploration. And when outstanding beauty is the result the pleasure is almost of receiving a gift from nature; as though the materials themselves had cooperated in revealing fresh and unsuspected facets of delight. “I just sampled all the Prosody London perfumes I brought back from Pitti, and I can’t tell you how impressed I am with your line. The quality is uniformly high, the packaging is gorgeous, and I cannot believe how accessibly priced the fragrances are. I think this is one of the best all-natural perfume brands I’ve come across. Bravo!” Cafluerebon, Lauryn Beer, Sr. Editor
Probiotic Hair Parfum collection, a ground-breaking Natural hair care perfume. The unique formula developed by Prosody London leaves the hair luminous, nourished and subtly perfumed throughout the day. A water-based perfume, without alcohol hence the product is non-drying for your hair. Formulated with hair treatment serum blends of Irish moss, Jojoba oil and Marula oil which moisturises, smooths and detangles hair and reduces breakage and split ends. Innovative probiotic ingredients from kimchi and coconut extract provides your hair with extra conditioning qualities as well as providing helpful antimicrobial function to the formula, without nasty preservatives.
