Lobelia: Fragrance Profile

1. Overview

• Botanical name: Lobelia inflata (Indian tobacco) and other Lobelia species (L. cardinalis, L. erinus).

• Origin: Native to North America and tropical/subtropical regions worldwide.

• Uses: Known historically as a medicinal and ornamental plant rather than a fragrance staple.

• Extraction: No traditional essential oil or absolute is commonly used in perfumery; its use is rare.

• In perfumery, "lobelia" is more of a fantasy accord or botanical inspiration than a mainstream raw material.

2. Aroma Character

Descriptions of the scent from fresh plant material:

• Green, herbaceous, slightly floral, spicy-tobacco-like.

• Nuances:

  • Leafy-green sharpness → reminiscent of crushed stems or leaves.

  • Dry-tobacco facet → earthy, slightly acrid.

  • Soft floral undertone → delicate sweetness in blossoms.

👉 Overall impression: an unusual blend of green-herbal sharpness with subtle floral and tobacco-like nuances.

3. Chemical Composition (Key Molecules)

• Lobeline (alkaloid) → gives the plant its medicinal, tobacco-like character.

• Piperidine derivatives → sharp, peppery, slightly acrid tones.

• Other plant volatiles → not well-documented in fragrance chemistry due to limited use.

4. Perfume Applications

• Extremely rare in modern perfumery.

• When used, it is often as:

  • A fantasy green/herbal note → evoking freshness and natural sharpness.

  • A tobacco-like nuance → dry, aromatic depth.

• Works in:

  • Herbal-aromatic compositions (uncommon niche blends).

  • Tobacco or fougère fragrances → as a supporting accent.

• More often referenced in botanical perfumery or experimental natural artisan blends rather than mainstream perfumes.

5. Mood & Symbolism

• Symbolically tied to healing, ritual, and strength (used in Native American medicine).

• Mood impressions:

  • Herbal & medicinal → cleansing, grounding.

  • Earthy & rustic → natural, raw, authentic.

  • Unusual & bold → niche, experimental aura.

 Quick Summary Table

In essence: Lobelia is a rare, green-herbal, and tobacco-like note in perfumery, more often symbolic or experimental than a mainstream raw material — bringing a sharp, rustic, and medicinal freshness with a subtle floral undertone.