Le Parfume Luxury · September 13, 2026

The Ancient Art of Oud

Discover the centuries-old tradition of oud harvesting and why this precious ingredient remains the most coveted in perfumery.

Oud, often called 'liquid gold,' is one of the most expensive and sought-after ingredients in the world of perfumery. Derived from the heartwood of Aquilaria trees infected with a particular type of mold, oud has been treasured for thousands of years across cultures.

A History Steeped in Tradition

The use of oud dates back over 3,000 years. Ancient texts from India, China, and the Middle East all reference this precious material. In many cultures, oud was reserved for royalty and religious ceremonies.

The Harvesting Process

Only a small percentage of Aquilaria trees produce oud naturally. When the tree becomes infected with Phialophora parasitica mold, it produces a dark, fragrant resin as a defense mechanism. This process can take decades, making natural oud extraordinarily rare.