This encyclopaedic reference covers all aspects of modern and traditional perfumery. Each entry includes information on botanical identity, origin, use, history, folklore and examples of the perfumes in which it is a constituent. There are similar entries for modern synthetic ingredients. Detailed descriptions of 200 top commercial fragrances of the present day include their main ingredients, their creators and biographies of those who designed their bottles. The differents types and families of perfumes are listed, together with information on how to choose, use and keep a perfume. There is also a section on home perfume making, which includes an appendix of ancient and modern perfume recipes and formulas.