Top, Middle and Base Notes
Understanding essential oil notes is an important foundation for intentional blending. Notes are ascribed to an oil based on how it behaves over time — how quickly it evaporates and when its scent is perceived after application.
Top Notes — First impression; evaporate quickly (1–2 hours)
Bright, fresh, and uplifting. These are the scents you smell first and they dissipate more quickly. Recommended ratio: 30-50% of your blend.
Examples: Lemon, Bergamot, Peppermint, Eucalyptus, Orange
Middle Notes — The heart; emerge after top notes fade (2–4 hours)
Warm, balancing, and grounding. These form the character of your blend and bridge top and base notes. Recommended ratio: 30-50% of your blend.
Examples: Lavender, Geranium, Clary Sage, Rosemary, Ylang Ylang
Base Notes — The foundation; longest lasting (4–6+ hours)
Deep, rich, and anchoring. These fix the blend and slow the evaporation of lighter notes. Recommended ratio: 15-30% of your blend.
Examples: Cedar, Frankincense, Patchouli, Vetiver, Sandalwood
Check out our Blending Concepts page for a deeper dive, especially blending with the Golden Mean!