labdanum
Oriental Family
Labdanum is a rich, complex resin with a sweet, musky, and slightly woody aroma, widely used in oriental and chypre fragrances.
Intensity
strong
Longevity
very long
Popularity
1 fragrances
Family
Oriental
About labdanum
Labdanum is a resin obtained from the leaves and twigs of the Cistus plant, primarily Cistus ladanifer, known for its deep, warm, and somewhat leathery scent profile. This note is celebrated for its exceptional tenacity and versatility, presenting a multifaceted aroma that ranges from sweet and woody to musky and amber-like, with subtle undertones of earthiness and spice. In perfumery, labdanum is a cornerstone for creating the amber accord, offering a rich and opulent base that adds depth and longevity to fragrances. Its complex nature allows it to mimic the scent of ambergris, providing a cruelty-free alternative with a similarly seductive allure. Labdanum's ability to blend harmoniously with a wide range of notes makes it an indispensable ingredient in the perfumer's palette, particularly in oriental, chypre, and woody compositions.
Natural Sources
- •Solvent extraction of the resin collected from the plant
- •Steam distillation of the resinoid to produce an essential oil
- •Molecular distillation to isolate specific aromatic compounds
Synthetic Alternatives
Labdanum is rich in sesquiterpenes, which contribute to its woody and balsamic character, Alpha-pinene and camphene, providing a hint of freshness, Ledene, copaene, and sabinene, adding to its complex, musky aroma
Perfumer's Tips
Labdanum is typically used as a base note due to its excellent fixative properties and profound depth. It works well in small to moderate amounts to anchor lighter top and heart notes, creating a lasting fragrance trail. Its versatility allows it to enhance the warmth and richness of oriental compositions, add sophistication to chypre fragrances, and impart a leathery or balsamic character to woody scents.