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Myrrh, a resin harvested from the Commiphora myrrha tree native to Somalia and the Arabian Peninsula, has captivated civilizations for over 5,000 years. It has been used in spiritual rites, embalming, and ancient medicine, prized for its solemn, calming aroma. In perfumery, myrrh continues this legacy, offering a rich olfactory experience rooted in tradition and mystery. Its scent is a warm fusion of sweet balsam, light spice, and gentle smokiness, profoundly grounding and complex. The essential oil or resin absolute is extracted through steam distillation or solvent extraction, yielding a potent heart to base note cherished for its longevity and depth.
Myrrh’s profile is rich and multifaceted: it opens with a subtly bitter resinous tone that mellows into honeyed warmth and incense-like smokiness. It carries an inherent sweetness tempered by earthy and slightly medicinal undertones. These qualities make myrrh a favorite in oriental, woody, incense, and amber compositions. Used primarily as a base note, myrrh imparts structure and spiritual resonance to fragrances. It blends seamlessly with frankincense, benzoin, labdanum, patchouli, and spices like cardamom or cinnamon. In floral compositions, myrrh introduces depth, while in gourmands it adds complexity to vanilla or tonka bean.
Myrrh’s aroma evokes sacred rituals, introspection, and timeless warmth. It is often associated with inner peace, meditation, and solemnity. In perfumery, it conjures reverence and mystery, ideal for those who seek spiritual or opulent olfactory experiences. Perfumers turn to myrrh not only for its depth but also for its emotional gravitas. It transforms fragrances into experiences that feel ancient yet profoundly intimate.
Myrrh is known for its excellent longevity, typically lasting 10 to 12 hours or more. Its projection is strong, especially in the early hours, gradually softening into a warm, enveloping trail. Its sillage is expansive yet not overwhelming, wrapping the wearer in a luxurious, incense-like halo.
Myrrh is more than a note, it’s a signature of sacred refinement and olfactory heritage. With its smoky balsamic sweetness and enduring resonance, it anchors compositions in rich, contemplative warmth. Whether paired with florals for contrast or layered with woods and resins for depth, myrrh is a timeless treasure that continues to enchant perfumers and fragrance lovers alike.
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