South Indian oud smells like the heart of an ancient forest after rain—earthy, animalic, and deeply resinous. Imagine wet soil mixed with aged leather, a whisper of smoke, and something vaguely sweet beneath, like dark honey left in a wooden cabinet for years. It's woody without being sharp; instead, it's warm and enveloping, with an almost medicinal spice that catches the back of your throat. There's a subtle animalic quality—reminiscent of musk or aged fur—that gives it an undeniably human, sensual character. It's simultaneously austere and comforting.
South Indian oud comes from the Aquilaria tree, native to Southeast Asia and parts of southern India. When the tree is infected by a parasitic mould, it produces a dark, fragrant resin as a defence mechanism—this is oud. Traditional harvesting in regions like Assam and parts of Kerala involves careful distillation of the infected wood, yielding a precious essential oil. The process is labour-intensive; premium South Indian oud is genuinely scarce. Modern ouds are sometimes created synthetically, but traditional distilled versions remain prized for their complexity and authenticity, commanding extraordinary prices.
In perfumery, South Indian oud functions as a luxurious base note—a foundation that anchors other ingredients. It's often used sparingly due to its potency and cost. Perfumers layer it beneath florals or citruses to add depth, warmth, and longevity. It softens sharp notes and amplifies the sensuality of a fragrance. It signals opulence and craftsmanship.
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