Oud is intensely mystical and its properties have long been admired. Travellers from across Asia took Oud to new places and would thrill the locals with its magical bouquet. From these beginnings Oud use has spread worldwide and today it is used by many of the worlds top fragrance companies.
The smell of Agarwood
Oud wood and oil come from the Agarwood Aquilaria tree which naturally grows in tropical Asia, notably Sylhet in Bangladesh. Oud smell is therefore very closely linked to Agarwood smell. The wood itself does not have any particularly strong fragrance and can most easily be described as woody. However, once the Aquilaria tree is combined with a particular fungus its composition changes.
The dark brown ‘infected’ wood begins to produce a rich and deep scent. As the tree ages and grows the potency of the Oud within it also changes. Each Agarwood tree has its own character, each branch has its own unique tones. The natural diversity which is found within even a single tree means that much like wine, Oud smell constantly evolves.
At its most basic, the smell of Oud can only be said to be full bodied, luxurious, profound and vivid. The effect of Oud smell on the senses is evident in the places it is used – from religious settings such as mosques and temples, to palaces and mansions of the powerful.
Smell of Oud oil
The smell of Oud oil is obviously closely tied to the wood it comes from. Just as different grapes produce different wines, each Agarwood tree adds its own stamp on the oil which comes from it. When seen, Oud oil can be described as a luscious, viscous liquid with a honey-like complexion. Holding Oud oil close to your nose will immediately invite you into its alluring world.
Many people claim that smelling Oud is like being transported to a heavenly place. This is one of the reasons why Oud is so closely linked with religious ceremonies, as a way of getting closer to God. The smell of Oud oil touches the senses on many levels, sharp and soft at the same time, clean and rich together.
It’s this complexity which sets Oud apart from other fragrances and why it is held in high esteem.
Oud oil is most often used on the skin as a form of aromatherapy – calming and relaxing the user. As well as being an essential oil its full flavour acts like a massage for the mind, giving the senses a gentle touch.
What does Oud smoke smell like?
Oud wood is traditionally placed on a burner and is used to create an amazing herb-like smoke. In many countries Oud is burnt either in the home on special occasions, or at times when peace and meditation are required. Oud smoke is directly influenced by the wood it comes from. Highly prized types of Oud wood such as Kala Maal produce an other-worldly smoke, ethereal and enchanting.
Underwater Oud wood, which is soaked in Oud oil, creates another unique form of smoke. Each piece of Oud wood produces a smell that cannot be ignored. It is not only scintillating to smell but also hypnotising to watch, floating in the air, a feast for the eyes. The smell of Oud wood smoke is somewhat softer than the oil itself which lends itself perfectly for peaceful occasions.
