Woods · Ingredient
Labdanum
WoodsNatural
What does labdanum smell like?
Resinous, sweet, leathery, ambery, and slightly animalic.
About Labdanum
Labdanum is a sticky brown resin obtained from the Cistus (rockrose) shrub. It is the core, defining ingredient of the true 'amber' accord. It has an incredibly complex scent: rich, leathery, sweet, and animalic.
Origin and Extraction
Origin
Spain, France, Morocco.
Extraction Method
Solvent extraction or distillation of the resin.
Common Pairings
Labdanum works especially well alongside these ingredients:
Interesting Facts
- Historically, labdanum was collected by combing the beards and thighs of goats that grazed on the cistus shrubs.
- It is the only plant-based material that naturally smells like ambergris.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Labdanum smell like?+
Resinous, sweet, leathery, ambery, and slightly animalic.
Is Labdanum natural or synthetic?+
Labdanum used in modern perfumery is natural. Labdanum is a sticky brown resin obtained from the Cistus (rockrose) shrub.
What fragrances have Labdanum?+
Many luxury fragrances use Labdanum to add woods characteristics.
Try before you commit to the bottle
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Last updated: 2026-04-26