Lemon Balm Oil

With a scent profile that is at once sweet and distinctly citrus-like, it presents a complex character with fresh citronella facets and a green, grassy-herbal background. This bright olfactive signature is largely shaped by a high concentration of aldehydes, primarily geranial and neral (citral), alongside citronellal and β-caryophyllene. The history of the plant is tied to its strong attraction to honey bees, giving Lemon Balm Oil its alternate name from the Greek word for the insect, Melissa. In a composition, it imparts a very natural and uplifting effect that is difficult to replicate with other lemon-type ingredients.

In fragrance creation, its primary function is to introduce a fresh, herbaceous lemon top note that is more nuanced than synthetic citral or other citrus oils. It finds great utility in classic Colognes, modern herbal accords, and as a delicate modifier for green or light floral bouquets. Due to its potency and high cost, Melissa officinalis l. leaf oil is best used with precision, typically at dosages under 0.5% in the concentrate. It pairs effectively with bergamot, geranium, and lavender to create clean, aromatic structures, and can be used to add a fresh sparkle to neroli or petitgrain.