The Art of Perfumery, and Methods of Obtaining the Odors of Plants

EAU A BRULER. Eau de Cologne, 1 pint. Tincture of benzoin, 2 oz. " vanilla, 1 oz. Otto of thyme, } " mint, } of each, 1/2 drachm. " nutmeg, } Another form, called EAU POUR BRULER. Rectified spirit, 1 pint. Benzoic acid, 1/2 oz. Otto of thyme, } of each, 1 drachm. " caraway, } " bergamot, 2 oz. Persons who are in the habit of using the perfume lamps will, however frequently observe that, whatever difference there may be in the composition of the fluid introduced into the lamp, there is a degree of similarity in the odor of the result when the platinum is in action. This arises from the fact, that so long as there is the vapor of alcohol, mixed with oxygen-air, passing over red-hot platinum, certain definite products always result, namely, acetic acid, aldehyde, and acetal, which are formed more or less and impart a peculiar and rather agreeable fragrance to the vapor, but which overpowers any other odor that is present.