This is one that I haven’t heard much about, but I found the name to be so intriguing, that I had to get it. Sea Fennel (Crithmum maritimum) is a succulent that grows in rocks along the shore. The one I have is from Greece coastline (ahhh, I can just feel the sunshine...), but it is native all throughout Europe, through the Mediterranean, and up to the Black Sea.
I learned that in natural perfumery, this is often used as a "marine" note. Love that. Emotionally, it provides the serenity you experience when you're oceanside, watching the waves come in & out... While it is purported to help with digestion and respiration, it is most helpful with skin conditions. It is an antioxidant - it is packed with Vitamin A, C, E, and amino acid peptides; it encourages skin renewal, improving skin tone, elasticity, and discoloration.
When I first smelled it I was like no, but it quickly grew on me, and improved with time. Since it is a middle note, I gave it at least two hours to reveal itself. I describe it as earthy, spicy, tangy, cool, and more herbaceous over time. I thought I smelled something like salt too. Enjoy!
