Since the beginning of time, the art of bathing has been an important part of one's state of mind and good health. These days it is also the ultimate luxury. A good long soak in the tub is one of life's greatest pleasures and anti-stressers.

 

The "Imperial Palatium" of Baia (Naples)- Bath of Hermes (first century BC)

 

As early as the the third century B.C., Romans built elaborate bath houses. It is from these ancient origins that the founders behind a "scent-uous" new line of bath products, Palatium, drew their inspiration (the name derives from the Palatine Hill—seat of emperors). Infused with olive oil from Tuscany, a key ingredient in Roman bathing rituals, soybean and jojoba along with vitamin E, and green tea, these botanical ingredients are an indulgence for both mind and body.

 

 

Palatium’s three fragrances are inspired by scents native to the Mediterranean and Classical Italy. They were carefully crafted by master New York-based  perfumer Rayda Vega (the former Givaudaun perfumer and the nose behind the niche scents by Montgomery Frazier's Ambra di venezia, Apothia If, Apothia Velvet Rope, Joya Composition No 1 and No 6:

  

Arancia Dolce is inspired by the sweet citrus of the orange groves lining seaside retreats from Cinque Terre to Amalfi. Top Note: Effervescent orange, grapefruit and lime zest. Mid Note: Lily of the valley, jasmine and orange blossom. Bottom Note: Cedarwood and gentle musk. 

  

Fico Speziato (editor's choice) is based on the scent of fresh fig balanced by gentle spices from Jerusalem and Alexandria along the Eastern edges of the Mediterranean. Top Note: Fresh dew drops of rain and green notes from orange flower leaves. Mid Note: Magnolia, rose petals and jasmine. Bottom Note: Exotic woods and musk. 

 

 Mare Myrteus blends the elemental zest of a refreshing trade wind with spirited notes of Tyrrhenian myrtle berries. Top Note: Refreshing bergamot, sparkling lemon and cool, ocean air breezes. Mid Note: Floral jasmine and muguet blended with tangy ginger. Bottom Note: Blonde woods, amber and musk. 

 

 As someone who is a connoisseur of bath products, Palatium is a wonderful new discovery and I love the packaging which evokes artisanal olive oil. Thanks to the owners of Palatium, CaFleureBon is offering a draw for your choice of any Palatium bath oil or foam (the foam can be used in the shower). Visit their website  at http://www.thepalatium.com  then leave a comment on your scent choice (foam or oil), and tell us why you deserve a sybarite's soak or shower. Draw ends March 7, 2012

 

 –Michelyn Camen, Editor-In-Chief

 

 We announce the winners only on site and on our Facebook page, so Like Cafleurebon and use our RSS option…or your dream prize will be just spilt perfume.