ABSTRACT
Since the dawn of civilization, say, 5000 years ago perfumes and perfumery chemicals encompassing flavors and fragrances and even pleasant food additives attracted attention in India and were used in temples, religious rites and even for personal sophistication. The earliest reference to such materials was to be found in the Vedas, say, during 20002500 BC. In particular, sandalwood, camphor, saffron, etc. were mentioned in connection with certain rites.
