Oud: The liquid gold of perfumery

Known as "liquid gold" or the "five-thousand-dollar-a-kilo scent," Oud is undoubtedly one of the most coveted and expensive raw ingredients in the world of perfumery.

Although initially perceived as an extremely potent aroma, its complex and rich fragrance has captivated many Eastern and Western cultures for centuries, and today, it captivates aficionados and connoisseurs of high-end perfumery. It has established itself as an icon of luxury and exclusivity.

Description and origin of Oud

Oud originates when the Aquilaria tree is infected by a type of fungus, which reacts by producing a dark, aromatic resin as a defense mechanism. This resin permeates the tree's wood, creating oud, also known as agarwood or agar oud.

Only one in every hundred Agarwood trees produces this resin, which contributes to its status as the most expensive essential oil in the world. These trees are a protected species, and in some cases, they are artificially inoculated to encourage resin production.

Oud is extracted by distilling the wood or melting the resin, and its main production areas include Thailand, Laos, Burma, Vietnam, and India. Its aroma is characterized by a dark, woody intensity, with smoky and sweet notes that evoke a unique sensuality.

Brief history of Oud

The use of Oud dates back to ancient times and is documented in religious and cultural texts from various civilizations.

• In Muslim tradition, Muhammad used agarwood for fumigation and perfume, and described this resin as a distinctive element of Paradise.
• In Judaism, Oud is mentioned as incense, associated with opulence and religious worship.
• In Vietnam, records speak of the extraction of Oud and its export to China and Japan.
• In China, since the 3rd century AD, this wood was used to make incense and coffins for the upper classes.
• In Buddhism, the most precious rosary beads are made from agarwood.
• In Fengshui, Oud symbolizes positive energy and balance.
• In European royalty, Louis XIV liked this fragrance so much that he used it to perfume clothes and spaces.

Oud Today

Currently, the Oud market is worth $6 billion a year, and its price even exceeds that of gold.

In recent years, this oil has gained considerable popularity in the world of complex fragrances, and many contemporary perfumers use it in their creations. It is typically used as a base note, as They are aromas with high fixation, high projection and a great capacity to enhance other fragrances.

Its olfactory notes are rich and complex, spicy and pleasant, with woody, musky and smoky nuances that are usually combined with subtle floral and fruity touches.

Traditionally, oud was burned in flakes to perfume hair and clothing. This practice persists today, although it is also widely used in the creation of luxury perfumes that evoke opulence and warmth.

Conclusion

Oud is much more than an oil: it's an olfactory experience that transcends time and culture. Its rarity, history, and exquisite aroma make it an incomparable treasure for perfume lovers and a symbol of supreme luxury.

If you're looking for a fragrance that tells a story and leaves a lasting impression, Oud is an excellent choice.