Natural oud is profoundly animalic and woody—imagine the deepest core of an ancient forest floor after rain, blended with aged leather, incense smoke, and something almost medicinal. There's a gentle sweetness lurking beneath, like honey touched by earth. It's simultaneously warm and slightly austere, with a whisper of camphor and precious wood shavings from a master craftsman's workshop. First-time smellers often find it unexpectedly complex: smoky yet creamy, dark yet oddly comforting.
Natural oud comes from the agarwood tree (*Aquilaria* species), native to Southeast Asia. When the tree becomes infected with a parasitic mould, it produces a fragrant, dark resinous heartwood as a defence mechanism—a process taking 5-15 years. This precious wood is then distilled through steam or water extraction. Historically treasured across the Middle East and India for centuries, oud remains one of the world's most expensive raw materials, with premium grades commanding prices rivalling gold.
Oud anchors fragrances with gravitas and longevity, functioning as a sophisticated base note. Perfumers employ it to add depth, animalic richness, and complexity—grounding lighter florals or citruses. Even tiny concentrations dramatically shift a composition's character. It conveys luxury and exclusivity whilst simultaneously evoking spiritual and cultural reverence.
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