The journey of essential oils from nature to the bottle is a fascinating process that highlights the artistry and science behind perfumery. At Helm London, we take great pride in sourcing the finest essential oils to create our exquisite fragrances. Here’s a look at the journey of these precious oils and how they become the heart of our perfumes.
Sourcing the Finest Ingredients
The journey begins with the careful selection of raw materials. Essential oils are derived from various parts of plants, including flowers, leaves, stems, and roots. Helm London prioritises sustainable and ethical sourcing, ensuring that our ingredients are harvested in a way that respects both the environment and the communities involved.
Extraction Methods
Once the raw materials are sourced, the next step is to extract the essential oils. There are several methods of extraction, each suited to different types of plants:
- Steam Distillation: This is the most common method, where steam is passed through plant material to vaporise the essential oils, which are then condensed and collected. This is our chosen method!
- Cold Pressing: Used primarily for citrus oils, this method involves mechanically pressing the plant material to release the oils.
- Solvent Extraction: For delicate flowers like jasmine, solvents are used to extract the essential oils without damaging their delicate fragrance.
- CO2 Extraction: This method uses supercritical carbon dioxide to extract essential oils, preserving their natural characteristics and purity.
Blending and Formulation
Once the essential oils are extracted, they are blended to create the desired fragrance profile. This is a meticulous process that requires the expertise of skilled perfumers. At Helm London, our perfumers carefully balance top, middle, and base notes to craft fragrances that are complex, harmonious, and long-lasting.
Maturation
After blending, the fragrance is allowed to mature. This process, known as maceration, involves letting the essential oils blend and develop their full character over time. This can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months, depending on the complexity of the fragrance.
Quality Control
Quality control is crucial at every stage of the journey. At Helm London, we conduct rigorous testing to ensure that each batch of essential oils meets our high standards for purity, potency, and consistency. This ensures that every bottle of perfume delivers a superior scent experience.
Bottling and Packaging
The final step is bottling and packaging. Helm London’s perfumes are elegantly packaged to reflect the luxury and craftsmanship that goes into each bottle. Our packaging is designed to protect the fragrance and maintain its integrity, while also being aesthetically pleasing and sustainable.
At Helm London, we are committed to creating perfumes that not only smell exquisite but also honour the natural origins of their ingredients. By understanding this journey, you can appreciate the craftsmanship and care that goes into every bottle of Helm London perfume.