When perfume was a remedy

THURSDAY MARCH 30th, 2017 – 6.30 p.m. - Length: 1 ½ hrs

Perfumes have been used for their healing properties since Antiquity. The famous Egyptian kyphi was used to cure lung, stomach and liver disease and promote a euphoric, relaxed state similar to wine, but without the effects of being drunk. From the Middle Ages to the 19th century, perfume was the main available medicine. In France, pharmacy and perfumery were officially separated by decree of Napoleon, on August 18th, 1810. But after a long eclipse, we are currently witnessing a rebirth of traditional perfume therapy. During this talk, you will learn about the essences and ancient perfumes reworked by a major contemporary perfumer using original recipes.

Annick Le Guérer is a historian, philosopher and anthropologist of odor. She teaches at the University of Burgundy and has published several books, including “Le parfum, des origines à nos jours” and “Les pouvoirs de l’Odeur”.