Spicy

Sichuan Pepper

Note Profile

Botanical 271 perfumes

Also Known As

Chinese Pepper

About

Numbing, citrusy pepper

Scent Profile

Sichuan pepper has a vibrant, spicy aroma with distinct citrus facets and a characteristic tingling, numbing sensation. Its scent combines fresh grapefruit-like brightness with warm, peppery undertones and a subtle metallic edge. As it develops, it reveals a dry, woody nuance that lingers on the skin.

ScentWheel

Breadthmedium

EnvelopeHeart · ~3h lasting

Family Fresh & Citrus, Elemental, Spicy

Read off the wheel, not a label applied to the note.

What this is made of

Sichuan Pepper names no single substance

A natural extract

Sichuan pepper absolute (IFRA NCS), Zanthoxylum. Numbing rather than hot.

How the layers join

Origin

Sichuan pepper is derived from the dried husks of berries from the Zanthoxylum genus, primarily grown in China. The essential oil or CO2 extract is obtained through steam distillation or supercritical extraction of the husks, not the seeds.

Usage in Perfumery

Perfumers use Sichuan pepper as a top or heart note to impart a lively, sparkling spiciness and enhance citrus or woody accords. It blends well with citrus, aromatic herbs, woods, and florals, adding complexity and a modern twist to both masculine and unisex fragrances.