Highlight: Amyris
Latin Name: Amyris balsamifera
Place in the Olfactory Pyramid: Base note
Amyris oil, also known as West Indian Sandalwood, is derived from the wood of the Amyris tree. The tree is native to Haiti and the Dominican Republic, but is also cultivated in other tropical regions. Unfortunately, there is no longer any Amyris in Haiti due to the depletion of the forest for charcoal production. There is still some production of Amyris oil in Haiti today but the raw material is illegal smuggled across the border from the Dominican Republic. Despite the forest having been depleted in Haiti, there is still a large forest in the Dominican Republic that is well regulated by environmental agencies and maintained by the current producers of Amyris oil who work with the environmental agencies to protect and clean the forest floors, ensuring sustainability for future generations.
Amyris Balsamifera, is a tree native to the Caribbean region and is revered for its fragrant wood and the essential oil derived from it. This sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to traditional Sandalwood has gained popularity in the perfume industry for its similar scent profile and ethical sourcing.
The Production Process:
Amyris oil is produced by the traditional method of steam distillation. First, the wood of the Amyris tree is ground up into small pieces and then the fine powder is loaded into a still. Steam is passed through the still, which extracts the essential oil from the wood. The Amyris crude oil is then collected and refined for use in flavors and fragrances.
Composition:
Amyris oil is known for its soft, woody aroma with hints of vanilla and balsamic notes. The oil is composed of several key components, including elemol, eudesmol, and beta-selinene. These components contribute to the oil's olfactive profile.
Aromatic Profile: Soft woody, oily-sweet balsamic aroma with a light pepper/ginger-like high note; has a light vanilla-like sweetness in the drydown
Appearance: Pale yellow, transparent, somewhat viscous
The Amyris wood harmonizes beautifully with a variety of other fragrance ingredients. It blends seamlessly with florals such as Rose, Jasmine, and Ylang-Ylang, adding a creamy and velvety touch to their compositions. It also complements citrus notes like Bergamot and Mandarin, bringing warmth and depth to their vibrant profiles. In more complex and sophisticated fragrance, it is often paired with resinous elements such as Frankincense or Myrrh.
Amyris essential oil is primarily obtained from natural sources, reflecting the growing demand for sustainable and ethically sourced ingredients in perfumery. The use of synthetic alternatives to Amyris is less common due to the unique complexity of its aroma. However, synthetic molecules may be used to enhance or amplify specific aspects of the scent while preserving the overall character of the natural oil.
As you embrace the enchanting scents that incorporate Amyris, take a moment to appreciate the skilled hands and dedication of those who cultivate and extract this aromatic treasure. Perfumery is not just an art of blending fragrances; it is a celebration of nature, culture, and the people behind each aromatic masterpiece. The presence of Amyris reminds us of the beauty and sustainability that nature provides, and the importance of supporting ethical sourcing practices.
