Hermès launches new fragrance Ginseng Biloba

Hermès has introduced Ginseng Biloba, a new perfume in its Hermessence collection, which is known for using rare and unique materials. The fragrance is inspired by the ginseng root, a plant with a long history in Asian cultures for its potential health benefits.

Inspiration from Asian traditions

Christine Nagel, director of creation and olfactory heritage at Hermès Parfums, traveled to Japan, Korea, China, and Taiwan to study the ginseng root. She consulted with herbalists and traditional doctors, noting that the plant’s value is determined by the length and harmony of its rootlets.

Creating a ginseng scent

One challenge in developing the perfume was the lack of a natural ginseng extract, as the root does not have a distinct smell. After several trials and a five-year effort, a natural ginseng extract was successfully developed, marking the first use of such an extract in perfumery.

Combining ginseng with ginkgo

The fragrance combines the ginseng root with ginkgo biloba, a tree known for its fan-like leaves. The ginkgo’s autumn leaves, which turn golden, inspired the perfume’s composition. Since the ginkgo leaf itself cannot be extracted, the scent was recreated using green tea, mate, and matcha.

Design and scent description

Ginseng Biloba is housed in a bright yellow lantern-shaped bottle, symbolizing the ginkgo leaves in autumn. The fragrance is described as woody, deep, and sweet-bitter, with a texture that evokes the feel of a chamois. The perfume is meant to be discovered gradually, much like the hidden treasures of the earth.