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Haitian Sandalwood or Amyris: A Multifaceted Tree with Exceptional Virtues
Amyris, a distinctive tree native to Haiti, belongs to the botanical family of citrus fruits. However, its bark and wood differ significantly from the citrusy aroma of lemon or orange trees. Instead, amyris exudes a scent resembling sandalwood, earning it the moniker "Haitian sandalwood." It boasts a refined and equally potent fragrance compared to its well-known counterpart in the world of perfumery.
Amyris, known for its remarkable natural incense properties, can ignite effortlessly from a branch, earning it the nickname "candle wood." Its essential oil is valued for both medicinal and olfactory applications.
Amyris or Haitian Sandalwood Notes in Woody Fragrances
Amyris or Haitian sandalwood notes are predominantly found in contemporary masculine woody scents. Amyris is often used as a base note and is typically combined with potent fragrances such as cypress, oakmoss, oud wood, sandalwood, and patchouli. Its pairing with different notes results in deep, multifaceted scents, enhancing chypre, amber, and woody fragrances, or even a combination of all three.
Amyris Homme by Maison Francis Kurkdjian, introduced in 2012, pays homage to this often-overlooked, aromatic tree. The fragrance showcases amyris's precious essence, blending it with white musk floral notes, as well as coffee and cocoa. The feminine version, a rarity for this note, delivers deep, musky scents with a slightly more powdery touch.
Lancôme's L'Autre Oud presents amyris in a new light, showcasing more oriental facets for those seeking an alternative to the ubiquitous oud wood. The result is an incomparably deep and exotic leather-spice-wood medley.
As a versatile wood essence, amyris continues to inspire perfumers and designers to develop innovative fragrances that defy the conventional scented trends of the decade. Amyris is often blended, sometimes feminized, becoming floral for Amyris Femme or paired with fruity florals, such as Givenchy's Play for Her. It appears that amyris still has a wealth of surprising and exotic combinations to offer the world of perfumery.
