Laurel

What Does It Smell Like?

Laurel smells like walking through a Mediterranean herb garden on a sun-warmed afternoon. It's crisp and slightly peppery, with an almost minty freshness, but softer and more refined than mint—think of crushing fresh bay leaves between your fingers and catching that sharp, green vapour. There's an underlying warmth, almost spicy, reminiscent of clove or nutmeg, paired with a clean, herbaceous earthiness that feels simultaneously bright and grounding. It's the scent of sophistication in a leaf.

Origin & History

Laurel derives from the bay laurel tree (*Laurus nobilis*), native to the Mediterranean basin, particularly the Levant region. The essential oil is extracted through steam distillation of the leaves, yielding a complex composition rich in cineole, sabinene, and linalool. Historically revered by ancient Greeks and Romans—bay leaves crowned heroes and adorned temples—laurel has remained a culinary and aromatic staple for millennia. Modern perfumery often employs both the genuine essential oil and synthetic molecules that capture its characteristic green-herbaceous-spicy profile.

In Perfumery

Laurel functions as a vivifying green note and subtle aromatic bridge in fragrances. It adds refinement, sharpness, and herbaceous complexity without dominating. Perfumers deploy it to enliven citrus accords, balance woody bases, or create dry, sophisticated compositions with classical elegance. It's often found in cologne-style fragrances and aromatic fougères.

Pairs Beautifully With

Featured In 34 Fragrances