Homemade Lemon Verbena Perfume Recipes

Introduction

The Spanish introduced lemon verbena to Europe, where it became a staple in 18th-century perfumery. Today, its woodsy, citrusy note adds spice to fragrances and makes appealing colognes for men.

Fruitwood Scent

Use high-quality 80- or 100-proof vodka as a nearly odorless, quick-evaporating carrier. Combine:

• 5 tsp vodka
• ½ tsp distilled water
• 15 drops lemon essential oil
• 10 drops grapefruit oil
• 10 drops lemongrass oil
• 2 drops benzoin oil
• 3 drops cedarwood oil
• 5 drops neroli oil
• 10 drops verbena oil

Pour into a dark glass bottle, steep 2–3 weeks, shaking and inverting occasionally. Yields a round, citrusy fragrance with woodsy undertones from lemongrass and verbena.

Citrus Scent

Start with ⅓ oz jojoba oil (a waxy plant residue that carries fragrance well). Add drop by drop:

• 10 drops bergamot oil
• 5 drops lemon balm
• 10 drops petitgrain (unripe orange) oil
• 5 drops lemon verbena

A refreshing, alertness-boosting citrus blend.

Victorian Lavender Verbena Scent

Inspired by Gone with the Wind's Scarlett O'Hara's mother, who adored verbena. Lavender relaxes; verbena refreshes. Bergamot adds a bright top note.

• 1 cup cologne alcohol (or vodka)
• 1 dram (1½ tsp) verbena oil
• 20 drops lavender oil
• 20 drops bergamot oil

A harmonious, historically inspired perfume.