Some of my first forays into the world of fragrance came through an interest in aromatherapy. I loved the idea that fragrance could be a source of healing as well as pleasure, and was enthralled with the concept of capturing some 'essence' of a plant or flower through distillation, for use in beauty, healing or massage.
I have therefore been delighted to see so many new natural and 'eco-friendly' cleaning product companies using essential oils to scent their products. It seems like a natural complement — many oils have disinfecting and antibacterial properties, as well as alleged psychological benefits, so why not combine them and be kind to the environment as well? Recently, the products have been getting increasingly sophisticated as well, with Seventh Generation coming up with rather delightful blends…
Is there a room in your house with “bad breath” — a stuffy attic or closet, a damp basement, or maybe a hallway where the dogs sleep, or the nook where the litter box is kept? Even an entire house can suffer from architectural halitosis: a mountain cabin or beach house that’s been closed for months has a stale, musty smell. We’ve all entered a hotel room, inhaled too deeply, and smelled yesterday’s cigarettes and coffee, the previous guests’ hairspray or perfume that’s permeated the carpets, curtains, upholstery.