Amber

Labdanum

Note Profile

Natural 1302 perfumes

Also Known As

French Labdanum, Spanish Labdanum

About

Rich, leathery resin

Scent Profile

Labdanum has a complex scent profile featuring rich, resinous, and leathery facets with hints of balsamic sweetness and subtle animalic undertones. It develops a warm, ambery depth as it dries down, often evoking sun-warmed earth and dried herbs. Its aroma can also reveal nuances of tobacco and honey.

Citrus 0%

Floral 0%

Fruity 0%

Green 0%

Sweet 25%

Warm 35%

Woody 10%

Earthy 25%

Animalic 20%

Fresh 0%

Origin

Labdanum is a natural gum resin obtained from the Cistus ladanifer shrub, native to the Mediterranean region. It is collected either by combing the leaves and twigs or by solvent extraction of the plant material. The resulting resinoid or absolute is used in perfumery.

Usage in Perfumery

Perfumers use labdanum primarily as a base note to impart warmth, depth, and longevity to amber accords and oriental compositions. It blends well with ingredients like vanilla, patchouli, incense, and various woods, anchoring and rounding out complex fragrances. Labdanum is a key component in recreating the scent of amber in perfumery.