Basil, with its verdant leaves and aromatic presence, is a staple in the tapestry of culinary herbs, and it belongs to the mint family, Lamiaceae. Most commonly, the sweet basil (Ocimum basilicum) variety graces our kitchens, lending its distinct flavor to a myriad of dishes within Western cuisine. It grows with an artful symmetry, its vibrant green or richly purple leaves arranged in pairs along a square stem—a visual delight in kitchen gardens and balconies alike.
More than a mere ingredient, each variety of basil presents a unique aromatic bouquet, crafted by nature’s blend of volatile compounds. Sweet basil greets the senses with its herbaceous and slightly peppery notes, evoking the warmth of summer gardens. In contrast, the African basil (Ocimum gratissimum) carries a spicy, clove-like fragrance, transporting one to a more exotic realm.
The scent profile of basil is not only cherished in culinary circles but is also celebrated in the world of perfumery and aromatherapy, where its scent is harnessed to create evocative and therapeutic experiences. Each variety of basil offers a unique olfactory signature, contributing to its esteemed versatility.
In this exploration, we’ll delve into the heart of basil’s fragrance, uncovering the nuances that make it a beloved feature in many LAFCO products.
What Does It Smell Like?
Basil’s fragrance is as varied as the herb is versatile. It’s the quintessential scent of the herb garden, fresh and vibrant, capturing the essence of greenery with a complexity that unfolds in layers. At its heart, basil carries a freshness that is inherently green and sweet, grounded in an earthy foundation that whispers of its natural origins.
Each strain of basil contributes its own distinctive note to this aromatic chorus:
- Fresh: Conjuring the crispness of newly picked leaves.
- Earthy: Evoking the foundational scent of rich, damp soil.
- Green: The embodiment of leaves and stems, just cut and full of life.
- Herbaceous: A direct reference to the garden’s bounty, full and flourishing.
- Sweet: A gentle, subtle hint of nature’s inherent sugars.
- Slightly peppery: A mild but invigorating kick that teases the senses.
- Clove-like: A warm, spicy note reminiscent of exotic spices.
- Spicy: A lively, energetic burst that adds depth.
- Slightly camphorous: A cooling, almost medicinal quality that refreshes.
- Minty: A brisk and invigorating undercurrent that aligns with basil’s family ties to mint.
Sweet basil is most renowned for its perfect balance of freshness and subtle spice. In contrast, African basil is robust and rich with pronounced clove nuances. Thai basil introduces a licorice-like aroma, adding an aniseed twist, while lemon basil offers a citrusy explosion, bright and unmistakable. Holy basil, or Tulsi, stands out as an aromatic tapestry, weaving together elements of camphor, clove, and mint into a scent that is both sacred and invigorating.
In the realms of perfumery and aromatherapy, basil’s olfactory profile is celebrated for its adaptability and depth. Depending on the variety and the context in which it is presented, basil can evoke a spectrum of moods and memories, each as rich and nuanced as the next.
24 Complementary Fragrances
Categorized in the herbaceous fragrance family, the scent of basil complements other herbal, fresh, and green fragrances. Depending on the variety, it may also work well with sweet, spicy, woody, or even floral fragrances.
Basil blends well with the following fragrances:
- Amber
- Bergamot
- Black Pepper
- Cedar
- Cinnamon
- Clary Sage
- Clove
- Eucalyptus
- Fennel
- Fir
- Geranium
- Ginger
- Grapefruit
- Guaiac Wood
- Juniper
- Lavender
- Lemon
- Lime
- Marjoram
- Mint
- Pine
- Rosemary
- Sandalwood
- Thyme
When used as a top note, basil delivers a burst of freshness that fades quickly, making way for other scents. As a middle note, basil is often blended with other herbal fragrances to bring out its unique qualities, such as earthiness or sweetness. Basil can also be used as a fixative to slow the evaporation of more volatile fragrances.
Enjoy the Scent of Basil in Two LAFCO Products
Basil’s aroma is renowned for its ability to invigorate the senses, making it an ideal candidate for refreshing and energizing fragrance blends. LAFCO captures the essence of this beloved herb in two signature scents:
Celery Thyme
Immerse yourself in an aromatic journey with each inhale of this unique fragrance. Discover the surprise of crushed thyme and the regal presence of purple basil, masterfully combined in a scent that captivates and intrigues. Anchored in a base of robust basil oil and verdant green thyme, this blend is accented with the distinctive notes of celery seed and star anise.
The composition is lifted by the crispness of apple and the cool freshness of cucumber. Housed in an elegant white handblown glass vessel, the 15.5-ounce Signature Celery Thyme candle is an objet d’art that infuses spaces with its layered bouquet. The fragrance also adorns a 15-ounce Signature reed diffuser, complete with natural reeds that gently diffuse the scent throughout your space.
Rosemary Eucalyptus
This blend is a call to awaken your surroundings with a tapestry of aromas that inspires and warms. The first notes are a crisp ensemble of juniper berry, basil, and garden sage, creating a prelude that is both bold and green. As the fragrance unfurls, it reveals the herbal richness of eucalyptus and the crispness of rosemary oil, resting on a foundation of earthy Indonesian patchouli and the enigmatic elemi oil.
Presented in a vibrant green artisanal glass vessel, the Rosemary Eucalyptus reed diffuser is available in both the 6.5-ounce Classic and 15-ounce Signature sizes. The scent is also crafted into an array of fragranced candles and a luxurious bar soap, each offering a different way to enjoy this aromatic masterpiece.
With these offerings, LAFCO invites you to experience the herbaceous charm of basil, woven into scents that refresh, restore, and invigorate your living space.
Create a Tailored Fragrance Profile by Layering Complementary Scents
The beauty of basil fragrance comes from its freshness, and therein lies its versatility as well. If you enjoy the scent of basil featured in one of the two LAFCO products above, consider using one of them as the foundation of your personal home fragrance profile, layering it with one or more of these fragrances:
- Sage & Walnut – Bright orange, spicy star anise, and herbal peppermint form this fragrance’s initial impression. Underneath awaits a floral heart of lavender and artemisia, accented with warm and woody notes.
- Chamomile Lavender – If you’re looking for a fresh fragrance to pair with, this popular blend is one to consider. It combines the brightness of bergamot with an array of sweet, herbal, and warming fragrances.
- Clary Sage – Emphasize the herbaceous aroma of basil by pairing it with this blend from the Absolute Collection. Built on a foundation of sage flower, this fragrance incorporates hints of chamomile, galbanum, guaiac wood, and oud.
Because basil is such a versatile fragrance, you may find that its scent changes depending on what you blend it with. Settle on a foundation for your home’s fragrance profile and, if you’re feeling adventurous, branch out with sample-sized selections from the complementary scents listed above.
The Discovery Trio is a great way to experiment with the versatility of fragrance. Burn one candle at a time, taking note of how layering scent changes your experience. If you come to prefer one complimentary fragrance over another, you’ll enjoy $20 off your next full-sized purchase.