A variety of flowers and herbs are used in perfumery. Some of the more common are orange, geranium, ginger, cypress, orris, and rose. These flowers and herbs have a strong, earthy aroma. Many people use these plants in fragrances because of their healing properties, and the root is especially popular in violet-themed fragrances. The rhizome of sweet iris is highly aromatic and is often distilled into concentrated aromatic substances for use in perfumes. The price of orris root is high due to its labor intensive processing. Despite its hefty cost, the flower comes into its full scent after two to four years of drying. This plant is semi-solid at room temperature and is remarkably intense and soft.
The orris root is typically sold as oil. The flower’s oil is a yellow-white mass that contains myristic acid. Orris is the main ingredient in most iris perfumes. It is also found in fragrances such as Ylang-Iris, Vintage Violet, and Tea Season. Infusion d’iris is a popular choice. Typical iris fragrances include the orris in their base notes.
Read also: Types of Perfume Scents and How to Choose the Right One for You