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Lemon Balm

CITRUS SMELLS  /  citrus · fresh · green
Lemon Balm
Lemon Balm perfume ingredient
CategoryCITRUS SMELLS
Subcategorycitrus · fresh · green
Origin
VolatilityTop Note
BotanicalMelissa officinalis
AppearancePale yellow to greenish mobile liquid
Odor StrengthMedium
Producing CountriesAsia, Europe
PyramidTop

Crushed lemon-scented leaves with a soft herbal undertone. Melissa, not lemon.

  1. Scent
  2. Terroir & Origins
  3. The Full Story
  4. Fun Fact
  5. Extraction & Chemistry
  6. In Perfumery

Scent

Lemon Balm opens with a bright and bracing citrus note that is similar to of freshly squeezed lemons, yet softer and more herbaceous. This initial burst of freshness is complemented by a green, slightly minty undertone that rounds out the profile.

Scent Evolution

As the fragrance evolves, the bright citrus notes become more layered. The herbaceous character becomes more pronounced. This transiti on creates a fragrant harmony that is both uplifting and calming.

Signature Accords

On a blotter after a day, Lemon Balm retains its refreshing qualities but develops a softer, more mellow character. The citrus notes settle into a warm, green base that exudes a sense of tranquility and comfort. This lingering scent has its versatility.

Evolution over time

Immediately

Immediately

Bright citrus with herbaceous undertones.
After a few hours

After a few hours

Citrus notes soften, revealing floral and earthy nuances.
After a few days

After a few days

Retains a mellow, green warmth with comforting qualities.

Terroir & Expressions

Indicative 2025 wholesale prices.

The Full Story

Lemon Balm, scientifically known as Melissa officinalis, is a perennial herb in the mintfamily that has been used for centuries for its pleasant arom a and medicinal properties. Native to Europe and parts of Asia, it has a long history of use in traditional herbal remedies, particularly for its calming effects. In perfumery, Lemon Balm is known for scent and because it can invigorate and enhance fragrance compositions.

Origin and Production

The plant has bright green leaves that release a refreshing lemon scent when crushed. This aromatic quality has made it a popular ingredient in both culinary and fragrance applications. The essential oil extracted from its leaves captures the essence of its bright, citrusy profile. Sourcing Lemon Balm typically involves cultivating the herb in temperate climates, where its growth is optimal.

Chemistry and Scent Profile

In perfumery, Lemon Balm is often used to create fresh, uplifting fragrances that carries feelings of joy and energy. It appears in citrus blends, where it harmonizes beautifully with other notes such asbergamot, lem on, and even floral elements. Its versatility allows it to be used in both men's and women's fragrances. With its combinati on of sweetness and zest, Lemon Balm remains relevant perfumers looking to carries a sense of vitality in their compositions.

Did You Know?

Lemon Balm has been used since antiquity, with references to its calming properties found in writings by Greek physician Dioscorides.

This note in Première Peau. Gravitas Capitale · Nuit Elastique · Rose Monotone. Sample all seven extraits in the Discovery Set.

Related notes: Bergamot · Bigarade · Bitter Orange · Blood Orange · Buddhas Hand · Calamansi · Candied Lemon · Chen Pi

Did You Know?

Did you know?
Lemon Balm has been used since antiquity, with references to its calming properties found in writings by Greek physician Dioscorides.

Extraction & Chemistry

Extraction method: Steam distillation

↑ See Terroir & Origins for origin-specific methods.

Molecular FormulaN/A — complex essential oil (key components: citral, citronellal, geraniol)
CAS Number8014-71-9
Botanical NameMelissa officinalis
IFRA StatusNo known restrictions
SynonymsMELISSA · BALM MINT
Physical Properties
Odor StrengthMedium
Lasting Power120 hour(s) at 100.00 %
AppearancePale yellow to greenish mobile liquid
Flash Point> 150.00 °F. TCC ( > 65.56 °C. )
Specific Gravity0.89000 to 0.93000 @ 25.00 °C.
Refractive Index1.44900 to 1.47000 @ 20.00 °C.

In Perfumery

Lemon Balm is primarily used as a heart note in perfumery, giving fresh quality to fragrance compositions. Its citrusy profile works with other citrus notes, such as lem on and bergamot, as well as with floral elements like jasmine and rose. This versatility allows it to enhance both fresh and floral fragrances, creating a balanced balance that appeals to a wide audience. The ingredient is often combined with minty or green notes to amplify its refreshing characteristics, used in summer scents.

From the raw to the worn

This is what it becomes.