Narcissus, Absolute 80% (in organic alcohol)

Narcissus and jonquil absolutes are often confused. They come from different species. Jonquil is Narcissus jonquilla. This absolute is from the poet's narcissus, Narcissus poeticus, and is greener, more hay-like and less sweet.

01 · Origin

A bulb of the amaryllis family, Amaryllidaceae, native to the mountain meadows of southern and central Europe. The white flowers have a small red-rimmed cup. This absolute is produced in France from wild-gathered blossoms.

02 · Process

The blossoms are extracted with solvent to give a concrete, then washed with alcohol to yield the absolute. The waxy fraction is substantial: ethyl linoleate, trans-9-eicosene, linoleic acid and palmitic acid appear in the analysis. The absolute is supplied at 80% in organic alcohol, which accounts for the ethanol listed.

03 · In Practice

Green, earthy and floral, with hay and leather undertones. A heart note of great diffusion. May be solid at room temperature: warm before use, and dilute further in alcohol or oil if needed. Used at low concentration in natural perfumery and olfactory study. Blends with jasmine, rose, orris, oakmoss, sandalwood and bergamot.

General information: For external use only. Dilute before applying to skin. Keep away from heat and sunlight. Keep out of reach of children. Avoid contact with eyes and mucous membranes.