| Field | Detail |
|---|---|
| Botanical Name | Viola odorata |
| Pronunciation | VY-oh-luh oh-doh-RAH-tuh |
| Common Names | Violet, Sweet Violet, Violette |
| Plant Family | Violaceae |
| Plant Part Used | Leaves and Flowers |
| Extraction Method | Solvent Extraction (Absolute) |
| Origin Regions | France, Egypt, and Northern Italy |
Description
Violet (Violette) absolute is a rare and cherished floral extract obtained from the heart-shaped leaves and delicate blossoms of Viola odorata, the classic sweet violet of Europe. The aroma is soft, powdery, and green-floral — simultaneously fresh, earthy, and nostalgic. Few natural materials capture such balance between innocence and elegance, making Violet a cornerstone in classic perfumery and fine botanical compositions.
Historically, Violets have symbolized modesty, love, and remembrance. Their fragrance was adored in ancient Greece and Rome and became a symbol of refinement during the Victorian era. The essential material we know today as Violet Absolute originated from Grasse, France, in the 19th century, when enfleurage and solvent extraction were perfected to capture the delicate fragrance that steam distillation destroyed.
In aromatherapy, Violet is valued for its emotionally soothing and harmonizing effects. The leaf absolute carries a greener, fresher character, often used to ground and cool emotions, while the floral absolute brings tenderness and subtle sweetness. It is used sparingly in high-end perfumery to introduce a natural powdery facet reminiscent of iris and to impart a smooth, velvety texture to blends.
Chemically, Violet absolute is rich in ionones — notably α-ionone and β-ionone — molecules responsible for its soft, violet-like scent. These compounds occur naturally in both the flowers and leaves and are known for their sedative, balancing, and skin-calming properties. Minor components such as methyl heptenone and phenethyl alcohol contribute to its green-floral nuance.
Violet absolute represents one of perfumery’s most graceful natural ingredients — refined, elusive, and emotionally evocative. It captures the poetry of spring’s first bloom in a scent that is quietly enduring.
History & Background
| Era / Region | Traditional Use | Notable Facts |
|---|---|---|
| Ancient Greece & Rome | Symbolism & medicine | Used in ointments, wines, and love potions |
| 18th–19th Century France | Perfumery | Grasse became the global center for violet extraction |
| Victorian England | Floral fashion & fragrance | Symbol of modesty and remembrance |
| Modern Perfumery | Green-floral harmonizer | Used in fine perfumes and facial care |
Violet perfumes became a hallmark of European elegance, gracing the compositions of perfumers like Guerlain and Coty.
Aroma Profile
| Attribute | Description |
|---|---|
| Aroma Type | Green, powdery, floral, and earthy-sweet |
| Scent Strength | Medium to Strong (Heart to Base Note) |
| Blends Well With | Rose, Iris (Orris), Sandalwood, Mimosa, Vetiver, and Tonka Bean |
Violet adds a natural powdery smoothness to floral and woody blends, enhancing body and refinement.
Chemical Composition
| Compound | Approx. % | Function |
|---|---|---|
| α-Ionone | 15–25% | Powdery, floral sweetness, balancing |
| β-Ionone | 10–20% | Green-violet tone, skin-calming |
| Phenethyl Alcohol | 2–6% | Floral lift, gentle antiseptic |
| Methyl Heptenone | 1–3% | Fresh green note, clarifying |
| Farnesol | 0.5–1.5% | Fixative, skin-smoothing |
| Geraniol | 0.5–1% | Sweet floral harmony |
The distinctive ionones define Violet’s recognizable scent — soft, nostalgic, and serenely balanced.
Cautions & Safety
| Type | Guidance |
|---|---|
| Internal Use | Not for internal use. |
| Topical Use | Dilute to 0.5–2%. Use sparingly due to strong aroma. |
| Pregnancy / Children | Safe in low dilution; avoid overuse. |
| Photosensitivity | Non-phototoxic. |
| Storage | Store in dark glass, tightly sealed. Shelf life: ~5–6 years. |
Violet absolute is highly concentrated and best used as a trace additive or heart note modifier.
Uses & Application Steps
Violet (Violette) absolute is valued for emotional comfort, aromatic elegance, and perfumery refinement.
Aromatic Use
- Diffuse in trace amounts for a gentle, powdery ambiance.
- Blend with Rose and Sandalwood for an elegant, calming aroma.
- Inhale to support emotional ease and mental balance.
Topical Use
- Add 1 drop to 10 mL carrier oil for a soothing skin or facial blend.
- Use in body butters or creams for delicate fragrance enhancement.
- Apply diluted as a pulse-point natural perfume.
Perfumery Use
- Adds powdery, green depth to florals and woods.
- Commonly paired with Iris, Rose, or Mimosa for luxury compositions.
- Provides lasting smoothness and velvety texture to heart accords.
Further Reading & External Links
| Source | URL |
|---|---|
| AromaWeb — Violet Absolute Profile | https://www.aromaweb.com/essential-oils/violet-absolute.php |
| Eden Botanicals — Violet Leaf Absolute | https://www.edenbotanicals.com/violet-leaf-absolute.html |
| Plant Therapy — Violet Leaf Absolute | https://www.planttherapy.com/products/violet-leaf-absolute |
| PubChem — α-Ionone Compound Summary | https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/638014 |
| IFRA Standards — Floral Absolutes | https://ifrafragrance.org/standards |
Citations & References
- Tisserand, R., & Young, R. (2014). Essential Oil Safety (2nd ed.). Elsevier.
- PubChem Database — α-Ionone (CID: 638014).
- Eden Botanicals — Violet Leaf Absolute Data Sheet.
- IFRA Standards, 2024 Update.
- AromaWeb — Violet Absolute Profile.
Conclusion
Violet (Violette) absolute is a study in grace and restraint — soft, powdery, and quietly luxurious. Its timeless floral-green aroma evokes both nostalgia and refinement, offering an understated beauty rarely matched in natural perfumery.
Physically, it provides gentle skin-conditioning and calming benefits, while aromatically it restores composure and adds harmony to complex blends. Its powdery-green chemistry unites the freshness of spring with the warmth of polished wood.
Among the rare absolutes, Violet stands apart for its elegance and subtlety — a whisper of nature’s sophistication distilled into fragrant perfection.
Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is for educational purposes only and has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This content is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before using any essential oil. Conduct your own research by reviewing all citations and references listed above.