cardamom
Spicy Family
Cardamom is a captivating spicy note with a sweet, aromatic profile, adding depth and warmth to fragrances.
Intensity
moderate
Longevity
moderate
Popularity
0 fragrances
Family
Spicy
About cardamom
Cardamom, a spice native to the Indian subcontinent and Indonesia, is celebrated for its complex aroma that combines sweet, spicy, and woody facets with a hint of citrus. In perfumery, cardamom is a versatile note, used to impart warmth, sophistication, and an exotic flair to fragrance compositions. Its unique ability to blend with a wide range of notes, from floral to citrus, and its contribution to creating a spicy yet fresh opening, make it a favorite among perfumers. Cardamom's aromatic profile can vary from intensely spicy and almost smoky, to light, sweet, and almost balsamic, depending on its origin and the method of extraction. This variability allows it to play multiple roles in perfumery, from enhancing the top notes with its invigorating freshness to adding complexity and a lingering warmth in the base notes.
Natural Sources
- •Steam distillation of the seeds
- •CO2 extraction for a more intense and pure essence
Synthetic Alternatives
1,8-cineole (eucalyptol), α-terpinyl acetate, limonene, sabinene, linalool
Perfumer's Tips
Cardamom is best used sparingly to avoid overpowering other notes. It pairs well with rose, orange, bergamot, and other spices. Its versatility allows it to enhance both fresh, citrusy compositions and rich, oriental blends. For a modern twist, cardamom can be combined with gourmand notes to create intriguing, spicy-sweet perfumes.