myrrh
Balsamic Family
Myrrh is a resinous, slightly musty scent with a hint of sweetness and spice.
Intensity
moderate
Longevity
long
Popularity
13 fragrances
Family
Balsamic
Olfactory Profile
woody
spicy
sweet
earthy
fresh
About myrrh
Myrrh is a gum resin extracted from the Commiphora myrrha tree, native to parts of Africa and the Middle East. This ancient scent has been used for thousands of years, not just in perfumery but also in medicinal and religious contexts. Myrrh offers a warm, slightly musty, and balsamic fragrance with a touch of sweetness and spice, making it a complex and rich middle note in perfumery. Its unique scent profile adds depth and warmth to fragrances, often evoking a sense of tradition and solemnity.
Natural Sources
- •Commiphora myrrha tree
Synthetic Alternatives
Synthetic versions of myrrh are available, often used to mimic its rich, balsamic quality in a more cost-effective manner. These synthetics can offer consistency in scent and supply, unlike the natural resin, which can vary due to environmental factors.
Perfumer's Tips
Myrrh is typically used as a middle note due to its warm and rich profile. It is best used in moderation to avoid overpowering other scents, and it can act as a fixative to extend the longevity of other notes. Myrrh's deep scent profile makes it especially suited for oriental and woody compositions.