With its new Jatamansi line, L’Artisan Parfumeur moves beyond fragrance (and the occasional matching scented lotion) into the realm of natural skincare. Following the fashion set years ago by companies such as Aesop and Jurlique and more recently updated by the bohemian-chic Jo Wood Organics, L’Artisan has blended organic, plant-derived ingredients into luxurious formulations for the body. The Jatamansi Bath Milk, Body Oil, and Body Cream are packaged in white containers with stylized black botanical elements, and they also continue L’Artisan’s interest in faraway destinations and exotic scents.
The central motif for this line is spikenard, called “jatamansi” in Sanskrit, a flowering plant that grows at high altitudes in the Himalayan mountains. Spikenard is a member of the valerian family of flowering plants, and the essential oil obtained from its rhizome has long been valued for its aromatherapeutic benefits…
Balance Massage and Bath Oil is my favorite product from Essence of Vali, a small, New York-based company created by trained aromatherapist Valerie Bennis. Bennis has been offering her botanical formulas since 2000, and her thoughtfully focused product line includes various concentrations of a blend called Sleep, for a “Bedtime Ritual,” and a citrusy, uplifting Eau de Parfum simply named E.O.V., as well as a range of nine Massage and Bath Oils. These multi-use oils, composed of various plant essences, are intended to evoke different moods and responses, including Calm, Detox, and Passion.