Scent and the sense of smell are extremely important in the animal world. Many creatures recognize each other by scent alone. Scent also plays an important part for humans worldwide. Just think of how you feel when you enter a kitchen and smell the wafting scent of a batch of freshly baked chocolate chip cookies or a steaming hot apple pie cooling on the counter? It's hard to remain in a bad mood when you smell something so delicious.

Perfumes and fragrances provide the same sense of delight and they have been highly valued in many different cultures. This is why they have been used for thousands of years by individuals worldwide. In fact, incense, which was one of the earliest forms of perfume, was discovered more than 4000 years ago.

Popularity
Although the ingredients of perfumes and fragrances have changed, their popularity certainly has not. Market research indicates that perfume had become a $10 billion dollar industry by 2002. Women and men continue to purchase their favorite scents, often choosing to own several different ones to suit their particular mood or occasion.

Confidence Builder
Perfumes and fragrances enable us to smell our best. We can leave our home with a renewed sense of confidence after applying a few drops of our favorite fragrance. Certain scents are soothing, whereas others are designed to invigorate or revitalize us.

Power Of Attraction
Scent is also one of the easiest ways to attract members of the opposite sex. It's often very hard, if not impossible, to resist men and women who are wearing a sexy scent. A few sprays of well placed cologne or perfume can do wonders on your next Saturday night out. Never underestimate the incredible power of our sense of smell.

Endless Variety
There are so many different varieties from which to choose that the only problem will be deciding which one you prefer! You will find products containing delicate floral scents, tropical scents or stronger masculine musky scents.

Exotic combinations such as ginger, lemon and lily are available. Well renowned companies such as Acqua di Parma have created unique and elegant fragrances that first appeared as far back as 1916. This Italian company's perfumes have been used by celebrities ranging from Audrey Hepburn and Cary Grant to Kate Moss. Their unique blend of elements such as rosemary, lavender, citrus fruits, basil and sage have earned them a loyal customer base.

Cath Collins gains her inspiration from her native English countryside and the sea. Her fragrances contain enticing blends of freesias, geraniums, jasmine, ginger, lemon, lime and lilies. Regardless of your personal taste, you're sure to find the scent that is just right for you!

Ivan Cuxeva endorses Tracy Hart who writes for Melbury's the London based bathroom accessories store. Visit the site for a wide range of wonderful bath and body products including the Acqua Di Parma range.