Opium by Yves Saint Laurent Perfume for Women Introduced in 1977 by French designer Yves Saint Laurent, Opium is smoldering and dramatic. This unique oriental fragrance has notes of plum, hesperides, clove, coriander, pepper, jasmine, rose, carnation, sandalwood, vetiver, myrrh, benjamin, opopanax, amber, musk, and patchouli. The oriental influence is evident in the packaging. The fragrance is held in a glass vial, enclosed in a red container. The design was inspired by ancient Japanese lacquered cases that were worn under kimonos, on silken cords, that held aromatic herbs, perfumes and medicines.