Viola odorata in jojoba Simmondsia chinensis solvent extracted from the leaves in Canada.

Aroma: Violet Leaf Absolute has a green, earthy, leafy note with a tender floral undertone.

Description: The violet plant is a tiny perennial plant grown mostly for its ornamental flowers.

Colour: Green to dark green liquid.

Common Uses: Native to Europe, the violet is a wild flower that can easily be cultivated throughout the northern hemisphere. An edible plant, it has been used in cooking and medicinally for millennia. It continues to be a popular flavouring in European candies and the petals as a sugared confection. Its most noted use is in perfumery in a supporting role to more prominent florals such as rose and jasmine.

Consistency: Medium oily consistency.

Note: Top

Strength of Aroma: Medium

Blends well with: Specific pairings include oils from the floral family, Clary Sage, Lavender, Benzoin, Basil, citrus oils, Sandalwood, Geranium, and and spices.

History: Affiliated with love in ancient Greece, it was a major ingredient of love potions. The violet became the emblem of Napoleon’s imperial party, and in England, violet fragrance was popular as a a perfume ‘simple’ throughout the Victorian era.

Cautions: Non-toxic, non-irritating, but may cause sensitization in some individuals.

Photo by Christian Fischer [CC BY-SA 3.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0)], via Wikimedia Commons