The Perfume Shop Explains: What is Oud?

Words: Emily Venables

When you think of a woody scent, you may not necessarily think of luxury. However, did you know that one of the most expensive natural raw ingredients in the world is a wood? It’s called ‘oud’ and oud-based fragrances are making a statement in the fragrance world! Let’s find out why…

What is Oud?

Oud is derived from the tropical agar tree and can be found naturally growing in the Middle East and it is thought to have originated in Assam, India.

When the agar tree becomes infected by a mould called phialophora parasitica the tree produces a dark, dense and fragrant resin to protect itself. It is the resin which becomes embedded in the tree that is the source of oud. Isn’t nature clever?

Agarwood: the name in Arabic is Oud Wood used to incense Cloths, furniture and places for occasions

Why is oud so expensive?

Oud really is a little bit of scented luxury! The agar tree is considered one of the most expensive timbers in the world, with the global market reportedly being worth a staggering £5 billion! Unfortunately, due to its high demand it has been declared a potentially threatened species by CITES (the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora). So, agar trees are being grown now in other areas of the world in an attempt to keep up with demand, but these may have a naturally different scent to them.

What does oud smell like?

As you would expect, oud has a very warm and woody aroma too it. It’s considered particularly potent, so oud fragrances are not for the faint hearted! Due to being sourced from a timber, you may also detect a hint of dampness in its scent, but also a delightful smokiness to it too. It’s a really unique fragrance that you simply have to try to appreciate!