In the beginning…
Spearmint ( Mentha spicata ), native to Europe and the Mediterranean region, is an aromatic plant with a long history of use for medicinal and culinary purposes. The ancient Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans were already aware of spearmint's refreshing and soothing properties, and they used it in various preparations, including baths, perfumes, and medicinal remedies.
Over time, spearmint spread throughout the world thanks to the spread of trade routes. Its popularity continued to grow, and it became one of the most valued aromatic plants in many cultures, where it was incorporated into cooking, beverages, and traditional remedies.
A perennial plant
Spearmint grows easily in suitable conditions. It prefers organically rich, moist but well-drained soils and generally thrives in partial shade. It can be propagated from seed, but the most common way to grow it is by cutting, taking a healthy stem and replanting it in suitable soil.
However, it is important to note that spearmint has a tendency to spread quickly thanks to its stolons ( creeping stems ), which can make it invasive in some environments. Therefore, many gardeners prefer to grow it in pots or containers to limit its spread.
Spearmint in the perfume industry
In perfumery, spearmint is highly prized for its refreshing and stimulating olfactory properties . Its essence is extracted by steam distillation of the plant's fresh leaves. Spearmint essential oil contains compounds such as menthol, which give it its characteristic scent. This aromatic note is widely used to create fresh and invigorating fragrances, particularly in summer compositions or those intended for warm climates. It brings a sensation of freshness and vitality, evoking an invigorating and pleasant breeze.
Spearmint is often combined with other ingredients to create unique accords. It pairs well with citrus , light herbal and floral notes, and certain spices to add complexity to a fragrance composition. In addition to its olfactory qualities, spearmint also has soothing and refreshing aromatherapeutic properties. In perfumery, it can therefore contribute to a feeling of well-being and relaxation for the wearer.
An icon
Mint made a remarkable entrance into perfumery in the mid-19th century thanks to Pierre-François Pascal Guerlain. Passionate about Eaux de Cologne and their citrus notes, Guerlain created a fresh, rustic eau for Empress Eugénie that delicately scented her while relieving her migraines thanks to the virtues of mint. This Eau Impériale was a huge success for Guerlain and inspired many other perfumers. This triumph prompted the perfume house to create a more modern version of Eau Impériale in 1974 to celebrate this remarkable achievement. Mint, with its many facets and virtues, remains a key ingredient in perfumery, evoking freshness, vitality, and well-being in numerous olfactory creations.
And why not?
• Herba Fresca by Guerlain : Herba Fresca is a fragrance from Guerlain's "Aqua Allegoria" collection, designed to be a stroll through a garden of fresh dew. Launched in 1999, it was created by perfumers Jean-Paul Guerlain and Mathilde Laurent. It is composed of top notes of lemon and clover, middle notes of green tea and mint, and base notes of cyclamen and pear, creating a fresh, green, and natural aroma.
• Green Water by Jacques Fath : Green Water is a classic fragrance created in 1946 by perfumer Vincent Roubert. It was relaunched in 2016 by the house of Jacques Fath with perfumer Cécile Zarokian. It is a fresh, citrusy scent with top notes of neroli, bergamot, mint, and petitgrain, middle notes of basil, vetiver, and mandarin, and base notes of oakmoss, musk, and amber.
• Eau de Minthé by Diptyque : Eau de Minthé was launched in 2019 and was created by perfumer Fabrice Pellegrin. Inspired by Greek mythology, this fragrance opens with notes of mint, followed by a heart of rose and geranium, and finishes with a base of patchouli. It is described as a modern and sophisticated reinterpretation of the fougère fragrance.
• Cologne Royale by Christian Dior : Cologne Royale is part of the "Maison Christian Dior" collection, which is a range of unique fragrances from the French haute couture house. Designed by perfumer François Demachy, Cologne Royale was launched in 2010. It is a citrusy fragrance that opens with sparkling and refreshing notes of bergamot, lemon, and neroli. Mint adds a green and fresh aspect to the fragrance. The base consists of light musky notes that add depth to the scent.
• Eau de Cartier Zeste de Soleil by Cartier : Eau de Cartier Zeste de Soleil is a fruity and fresh fragrance that was launched in 2013. It opens with notes of passion fruit and yuzu, adding an exotic and tangy touch to the scent. The mint notes add a vibrant freshness to the composition. It is a light and cheerful fragrance, ideal for summer or for those who love fruity and fresh scents.
