Eau de Cologne (; German:
Kölnisch Wasser ; lit. “Water of Cologne”), or simply
cologne, is a
perfume originating from
Cologne,
Germany. Originally mixed by Italian-born
Johann Maria Farina in 1709, it has since come to be a generic term for scented formulations in typical concentration of 2%–5% and also more depending upon its type
essential oils or a blend of extracts, alcohol, and water. In a base of dilute
ethanol (70%–90%), eau de cologne contains a mixture of
citrus oils including oils of
lemon,
orange,
tangerine,
bergamot,
lime,
grapefruit and
neroli. It can also contain oils of
lavender,
rosemary,
thyme,
petitgrain (orange leaf),
jasmine, and
tobacco.