Creating a Cherry Blossom Essential Oil Blend

This month is Cherry Blossom season in Japan and of course Washington D.C. I thought it might be fun to create a blend with essential oils to honor this season.

The cherry blossoms (Sakura) actually have a very faint, almost undetectable scent. Their "essence" is usually a mix of soft florals, light fruitiness, and a touch of creamy sweetness.

Since there is no true "cherry blossom essential oil" (most are synthetic fragrance oils), you have to build your blend using a combination of other essential oils and botanical extracts.

Here are some suggestions:

Rose Geranium: is the secret to making your blend "smell pink." It’s much more affordable than Rose Otto but carries the same romantic energy.

Roman Chamomile: for the "apple sweetness".

Neroli or Petitgrain: Use these sparingly to add a "green" freshness, like the stems and the crisp spring air.

Ylang Ylang (Extra): Just a drop! It adds a creamy, exotic floral weight that helps the lighter scents linger.

Vanilla Absolute or Benzoin: These provide a warm, balsamic sweetness that will anchor your blend.

Sandalwood: Sandalwood is a great choice for your cherry blossom blend because it is a "heavy" molecule and acts as a fixative, slowing down the evaporation of those light, flighty floral notes while mimicking the scent of the dark, smooth bark of the Sakura tree.

Recipe idea:

• 4 drops Rose Geranium (The floral "pink" note)

• 4 drops Sandalwood (The creamy anchor)

• 2 drops Roman Chamomile (The "apple-sweet" fruitiness)

 Why we like this blend:

 The Roman Chamomile has a natural, honey-like sweetness that, when mixed with Rose Geranium, creates a "blossom" scent without needing a specific fruit oil.

Optional: Add a drop of Lavender, Bergamot or Petitgrain. Let your nose be your guide.

Let us know what you use to create your amazing Cherry Blossom DIY blend.

Enjoy!