Papier Arménie

For 130 years, those who appreciate, from generation to generation, the artisanal production of a quality product know that the soul of “Papier d'Arménie®” rests on tradition.

The Papier d'Arménie® was created so that Europeans can discover the benefits of benzoin. It was experimentation and method that made it successful, given that there were no readily available products.

The history of Papier d'Arménie® had begun in the 19th century. During a trip to Armenia, Auguste Ponsot observed that the inhabitants perfumed and disinfected their houses by burning Benzoin. Finding this traditional and ecological practice appealing, he decided to import this product to France.

His partner, pharmacist Henri Rivier, then discovered that by dissolving benzoin in 90° alcohol, a lasting fragrance is obtained. The addition of scent results in a pleasant and lingering aromatic blend. Only a supporting medium needs to be found. This would be the blotting paper which absorbs the mixture while retaining the original benzoin fragrance and burns slowly with no flame.

From inception, the Papier d'Arménie® was a unique product and it was immediately acknowledged. This is the only home fragrance in the form of burning paper.

Renowned since ancient times for its antiseptic, healing and expectorant properties, benzoin balm was once used externally to treat asthma, coughs and hoarseness. People, who are normally tense, appreciate benzoin for its favourable action on the psyche and the emotions. In Malaysia, it is used in ceremonies to ward off evils during the rice harvest. The Indians, for their part, dedicate this sacred perfume to the god Shiva.

In constant search of refinement and improvement, the Papier d'Arménie® continues innovating. In recent years, new fragrances and candles have been created, the range of burners has grown, the shapes and presentation have been re-worked.

Having no propellant gas, Papier d'Arménie® is safe for the ozone layer. The leaves are soaked in an alcohol-based solution. To slow down their combustion, the leaves are treated with a natural saline solution.

The absorbent paper used to make the Papier d'Arménie is also certified by the FSC, an independent international body which promotes responsible forest management at the global level.

The Papier d’Arménie® represents an art of living with good taste and strong convictions of hygiene or ecology.