There are approximately 250 natural species of Pelargonium, with thousands of hybrids and cultivars, and surprisingly few of these species have a truly pleasing fragrance. Pelargoniums are believed to be of South African descent, but due to massive hybridisation after their introduction to Europe in the 17th century they now bear little resemblance to their original parentage. Read more…

Neroli essential oil is extracted from the fragrant blossoms of the bitter orange tree (Citrus aurantium sub.sp amara), and has a beautiful aroma that appeals to men and women alike. In common with rose and jasmine, neroli oil is a complete fragrance in itself and forms the heart of one of the worlds most enduring perfumes, ‘Eau de Cologne’.
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A panic attack can strike without warning and without an obvious reason, bringing with it overwhelming, sometimes paralyzing fear and terror. The experience is far more intense than a feeling of being ‘stressed out’, and terrified victims often report that they thought they were going crazy, losing control, or even having a heart attack.

Panic attacks range from feelings of uneasiness to immobilizing bouts of terror. In this extreme state people experience white-knuckle, heart-pounding terror that strikes suddenly and without warning. Since they can’t predict when these attacks will happen they may live in constant worry that another one could strike at any time. Read more…

Sandalwood (Santalum album) is one of the oldest of all known aromatic materials and has a history that dates back over 4,000 years. Highly revered as a sacred fragrance by many religions around the world such as Buddhism and Hinduism, its wood has been used to make religious artefacts and fragrant incense for a vast range of devotional ceremonies.

The demand for this highly sought-after timber has led to over-harvesting, and over the past 10 years the availability of the heartwood that’s required for extracting the essential oil has diminished significantly. Read more…

The first time I encountered this remarkable fruit was in 1996 whilst lecturing in Japan, and I was immediately intrigued by its distinctive, refreshing fragrance and reputation in folk medicine. The peel of this fruit produces a delightful citrus fragrance with a faint floral overtone which is unique and quite difficult to describe.
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Springtime symbolises rebirth and renewal on many different levels, but it always seems particularly relevant to our state of health. On a mental level we often undertake new beginnings at this time of year by seeking a new career or relationship, or perhaps by making a determination to walk a more spiritual path in life.
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Occassionaly sold under the enchanting Chinese name of May chang, this essential oil is more commonly marketed under its botanical name of Litsea cubeba, and this is how we offer it at Quinessence. It is also occasionally referred to as Exotic Verbena or Tropical Verbena, although despite the references to verbena the plant is not related in any way to true verbena (Lippia citriodora). The association to this name would appear to be due to the similarity in fragrance. Read more…

This is not so much a new product but more the return of a firm favourite that has been unavailable for over a year now. Yuzu essential oil has proven very popular since we introduced it over 10 years ago, but for economical reasons our producer on the island of Shikoku in Japan recently had to stop producing the oil in favour of the more profitable juice extract.
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Christmas is a special time of the year for the joy and intangible magic that fills the Season of Goodwill. It is experienced in the delightful decorations, glorious get-togethers with family and friends, and the sheer feeling of joy you get from giving and receiving gifts.

But ready or not, life steps up a few gears now as Christmas hurtles headlong towards us. And whilst it really should be a time for joy and celebration, the pressure of choosing the right presents for everybody, preparing the Christmas dinner and arranging all the parties is bound to send your stress levels soaring. Read more…