Oregano: Fragrance Profile

1. Overview

• Botanical name: Origanum vulgare (common oregano), related to marjoram.

• Family: Lamiaceae (mint family).

• Parts used: Leaves and flowering tops.

• Extraction: Steam distillation → Oregano essential oil.

• Note type: Middle note (sometimes leaning toward sharp top/middle).

2. Aroma Character

• Strong, herbaceous, spicy, medicinal, and slightly camphoraceous.

• Sharp, warm, and somewhat pungent, with earthy and green undertones.

• Can evoke culinary warmth or rustic wild herb gardens.

👉 Impression: bold, aromatic, fiery-green with a medicinal edge.

3. Key Chemical Components

• Carvacrol → spicy, phenolic warmth (main component).

• Thymol → herbaceous, medicinal, similar to thyme.

• p-Cymene, γ-terpinene → citrusy, resinous undertones.

• Linalool (in some varieties) → soft floral nuance.

4. Perfume Applications

• Rare in mainstream fine perfumery due to its intensity.

• Used sparingly in:

  • Aromatic fougère and herbal colognes (with lavender, rosemary, thyme, sage).

  • Spicy orientals (blends with clove, cinnamon, incense).

  • Rustic, green-woody compositions (with cedar, vetiver, oakmoss).

• More common in niche and artisanal perfumery where bold herbal signatures are desired.

5. Mood & Symbolism

• Traditionally associated with healing, strength, and protection.

• Mood impressions:

  • Energizing & stimulating → invigorating herbal kick.

  • Grounding & rustic → earthy, Mediterranean warmth.

  • Fiery & bold → adds sharp aromatic edge.

 Quick Summary Table

In essence: Oregano is a potent, fiery-green herb note, lending fragrances a spicy-medicinal edge that works best in aromatic fougères, herbal blends, and niche creations.