Reasons Behind the Change in Oud’s Scent

The Change in Oud Scent: Causes and Solutions

The scent of oud is one of the most luxurious and distinctive fragrances cherished by various cultures around the world. Aromatic oud wood is used in making oud oil and high-end perfumes. However, sometimes users notice a change in the scent of oud—even when purchasing the same type from the same seller. In this article, we’ll explore the reasons behind these changes and offer tips to help preserve oud’s fragrance for longer.

Why Is Oud’s Scent Unique?

Oud’s scent is a rich and complex blend of woody, balsamic, and smoky notes. What makes oud truly unique is how it forms inside the tree after a fungal infection, prompting the tree to produce a resinous substance known as oud. The resulting aroma varies depending on the tree species, its age, geographic location, and the processing methods used after harvesting.

Reasons Behind the Change in Oud’s Scent

There are several reasons why oud scent might change over time. Below are the most common factors, along with ways to maintain the fragrance for as long as possible:

1. Storage Duration

Fresh oud oil typically has a more diffusive scent, while aged oud oil tends to be heavier and longer-lasting but with less projection. The main difference is that aged oil is more stable and rich but less vibrant.

2. Natural Nature of Oud

Oud oil is a natural substance—not synthetic—so its scent may vary even when buying the same variety from the same supplier. This variation is due to natural changes in the raw materials.

3. Change in Cultivation Area

The location where oud trees are grown greatly affects their scent profile. If a seller sources wood from a new region, this can result in noticeable differences in fragrance.

Indian oud, for example, differs significantly from Indonesian or Cambodian oud, with each region imparting its own distinct characteristics.

4. Age of the Tree

The age of the tree is a critical factor. Older trees produce higher-quality oud with richer aromatic complexity.

• Young trees yield less dense wood with a lighter scent.
• Older trees produce oud with deeper and more layered fragrance notes.
  
  

5. Aging and Fermentation Methods

The length and method of fermentation greatly influence oud’s aroma. Some sellers age oud for a full month, while others may only ferment it for a week or two.

• Natural Fermentation: Letting oud age in natural environmental conditions to enhance its aroma.
• Artificial Fermentation: Using heat or sunlight to accelerate the aging process.

6. Processing Method

How oud is cooked or treated in different regions affects its scent. Environmental factors like water and soil also influence the final aroma.

Common processing methods include:

• Steam distillation: Preserves the natural scent of the oud.
  
  
• Water treatment: Adds a distinct aroma but may alter the original scent.
  
  

7. Storage Conditions

Proper storage is crucial to preserving oud’s scent. Exposure to air, heat, or humidity can degrade its quality.

• Air exposure can lead to oxidation of aromatic oils.
• High heat can break down its fragrance compounds.

How Does Oud’s Scent Change Over Time?

• Interaction with Air: Oud reacts with oxygen, which can subtly shift its scent.
• Environmental Factors: Temperature and humidity affect the essential oils in oud.
• Organic Nature: As a natural material, oud evolves over time—often becoming deeper in scent.
  
  

Tips from “Oud Al Maher” to Preserve Oud Quality

Proper Storage Is Key

To preserve oud’s scent, store it in a suitable environment—away from heat, moisture, and direct air exposure. Use tightly sealed containers, preferably made of dark glass or wrapped wood, to protect oud from environmental factors and external odors.

Keep Oud Away from Strong Odors

Oud easily absorbs surrounding smells, so it should be stored away from strong-scented items like perfumes or cleaning agents to avoid scent contamination.

Rotate and Ventilate Oud

To maintain freshness, rotate and occasionally ventilate oud. Briefly opening the container allows excess moisture to evaporate and prevents mold formation.

Final Thought

A change in oud’s scent is often natural and can result from several factors. That’s why it’s important to store oud correctly to preserve its signature fragrance. By following these storage tips, you can enjoy your oud for longer while ensuring consistent quality—especially when purchasing from a trusted source that guarantees authentic and long-lasting oud.