Animalic

Castoreum

Note Profile

Natural 35 perfumes

About

Leathery, animalic

Scent Profile

Castoreum has a rich, leathery scent with pronounced animalic facets, often described as warm, smoky, and slightly sweet. It can evoke nuances of tar, tobacco, and dry wood, developing a soft, suede-like quality as it dries down. Its complexity adds depth and a naturalistic warmth to compositions.

Citrus 0%

Floral 0%

Fruity 0%

Green 0%

Sweet 5%

Warm 15%

Woody 10%

Earthy 25%

Animalic 85%

Fresh 0%

Origin

Traditionally, castoreum is obtained from the castor sacs of beavers, where it is secreted as part of their scent-marking. In perfumery, the raw material is aged and tinctured in alcohol to mellow its intensity, though modern usage often relies on synthetic substitutes due to ethical and regulatory considerations.

Usage in Perfumery

Perfumers use castoreum primarily as a base note, lending longevity and a leathery-animalic foundation to fragrances. It is commonly blended with woods, resins, florals, and other animalic notes to add realism and complexity, especially in leather, chypre, and oriental accords.