Citrus

Litsea Cubeba

Note Profile

Natural 7 perfumes

About

Litsea Cubeba, also known as May Chang, has a bright, sparkling citrus aroma with pronounced lemon and lemongrass facets. It is uplifting, fresh, and slightly sweet, often used to impart a zesty, effervescent character to perfumes. Its scent profile makes it popular in both citrus blends and as a top note to add vibrancy.

Scent Profile

Litsea Cubeba has a vivid citrus aroma characterized by sharp lemon and lemongrass nuances, with a subtle sweetness and a slightly peppery undertone. Its scent is effervescent and fresh, maintaining brightness as it diffuses, though it can soften to a gentle, clean citrus as it dries down. The overall impression is lively and uplifting, with a crisp, sparkling quality.

Citrus 75%

Floral 5%

Fruity 0%

Green 5%

Sweet 15%

Warm 0%

Woody 0%

Earthy 0%

Animalic 0%

Fresh 45%

Origin

Litsea Cubeba is derived from the small, pepper-like fruits of the Litsea cubeba tree, native to Southeast Asia. The essential oil is obtained through steam distillation of the fresh fruits, which are harvested primarily in China and Indonesia. The oil is pale yellow and valued for its high citral content.

Usage in Perfumery

Perfumers use Litsea Cubeba primarily as a top note to impart freshness and zest to citrus accords and colognes. It blends well with other citrus oils, aromatic herbs, and light florals, and can also enhance green, woody, or spicy compositions. Its volatility and brightness make it ideal for opening a fragrance with an immediate, sparkling impact.