Some lichens contain various phenolic acids and essential oils that produce fragrant odors in scented soaps and help fix the aroma of fine perfumes. For centuries a lovely fruticose lichen called oak moss (Evernia prunastri) has been collected in Europe for making perfume.Through a complex process of solvent extraction and distillation, oak moss has become an important ingredient in the manufacture of perfumes and high-quality cosmetics. This remarkable lichen occurs in California, but air pollution has eliminated it throughout most of its former range in southern California. Oak moss still clings to the branches of ponderosa pines on Palomar Mountain in San Diego County.

Witch hazel (Hamamelis virginiana) is a shrub in the witch-hazel family (Hamamelidaceae) native to the eastern United States. The witch hazel of commerce is an aromatic mixture of tannin and a phenolic essential oil (hamamelitannin) obtained from the distillation of the leaves, bark and twigs of this interesting shrub. Liquidambar or sweet gum (Liquidambar styraciflua), a commonly cultivated deciduous tree with beautiful autumn foliage, also belongs to this family. The common name "witch hazel" is derived from the custom of using its branches as divining rods to reveal hidden underground water, a practice known as water witching. This shrub also has the curious adaptation of forcibly ejecting its shiny black seeds (two seeds per capsule) when the seed capsules are ripe. I discovered this phenomen may years ago in Cincinnati, Ohio. I had a capsule next to my bed and was awakened during the night when a capsule expoded next to my head! Witch hazel is used medicinally as a soothing, topical astringent. One of its best-known uses is in medicated pads for the relief of hemorrhoids. For this purpose it is unsurpassed by any naturopathic remedy.

Note: Witch hazel oil is the active ingredient in Tucks. It can be used daily to cleanse the anal area, especially if you don't have access to a bidet.