Resin

Opoponax

Note Profile

Natural 60 perfumes

Also Known As

Opoponax Absolute

About

Sweet myrrh, balsamic

Scent Profile

Opoponax has a warm, sweet balsamic scent with pronounced resinous and honeyed undertones, often described as softer and rounder than myrrh. Its aroma includes subtle notes of spice, earth, and a gentle smokiness that deepens as it dries down. The scent evolves to reveal a lingering, slightly powdery finish.

Citrus 0%

Floral 0%

Fruity 0%

Green 0%

Sweet 35%

Warm 40%

Woody 10%

Earthy 15%

Animalic 10%

Fresh 0%

Origin

Opoponax is derived from the gum resin of Commiphora erythraea and related species, native to regions in East Africa and the Middle East. The resin is harvested by making incisions in the bark, allowing the sap to exude and harden before it is collected and steam distilled or solvent extracted.

Usage in Perfumery

Perfumers use opoponax primarily as a base note to impart depth, warmth, and fixative qualities to oriental, amber, and chypre compositions. It blends well with other resins, woods, spices, and floral notes, enhancing complexity and longevity in the fragrance structure.