What does the word ambrette mean?
Ambrette takes its name from the French word "ambre", referring to ambergris, a precious substance often used in perfumery. This olfactory note is extracted from the ambrette seed, i.e. the seeds of Abelmoschus moschatus plant, also known as musk hibiscus. It is often used as a plant-based alternative to ambergris, offering a musky, sensual fragrance subtly reminiscent of amber.
In the beginning…
The use of ambrette in perfumery dates back to antiquity, when it was prized for its aromatic and medicinal properties. The Egyptians and Romans were already using the note to create perfumes and scented ointments. Over the centuries, ambrette has continued to be appreciated for its unique fragrance and musky qualities, which add a warm, sensual touch to perfume compositions. Today, ambrette remains an ingredient of choice for perfumers seeking to create sophisticated, bewitching fragrances, ensuring that its olfactory heritage endures through time.
Ambrette cultivation
The ambrette is a plant native to India, tropical Asia and it is also found in parts of Africa. Ambrette is grown mainly for its seeds, which contain the essential oil used in perfumery. The plant is grown in areas with a warm, humid climate, where it can develop fully. The seeds are harvested by hand, then dried and pressed to extract the essential oil, which has a delicate, musky scent.
What did you know about the use of ambrette in perfumery?
In perfumery, ambrette is an ingredient much appreciated for its softness and subtlety. Its olfactory profile is characterized by musky, slightly animalic notes and an enveloping warmth. It adds a sensual, velvety dimension to fragrance compositions. Ambrette is often used as a base note to add depth and longevity to fragrances. It blends particularly well with woody accords, such as sandalwood, cedar and vetiver, which amplify its warmth. It can also be combined with delicate floral notes, such as rose or jasmine, to create elegant, bewitching fragrances. Its musky character blends harmoniously with notes of vanilla and amber, adding a touch of sensuality to the composition. In short, ambrette is a versatile and precious ingredient in perfumery, adding a refined, sophisticated touch to olfactory creations.
What do you know about the use of ambrette in perfumery ?
In perfumery, ambrette is an ingredient much appreciated for its softness and subtlety. Its olfactory profile is characterized by musky, slightly animalic notes and an enveloping warmth. It adds a sensual, velvety dimension to fragrance compositions. Ambrette is often used as a base note to add depth and longevity to fragrances. It blends particularly well with woody accords, such as sandalwood, cedar and vetiver, which amplify its warmth. It can also be combined with delicate floral notes, such as rose or jasmine, to create elegant, bewitching fragrances. Its musky character blends harmoniously with notes of vanilla and amber, adding a touch of sensuality to the composition. In short, ambrette is a versatile and precious ingredient in perfumery, adding a refined, sophisticated touch to olfactory creations.
Interesting fact!
Outside the world of perfumery, ambrette also has benefits and virtues that give it a special place in other fields. In traditional medicine, ambrette essential oil is used for its soothing and relaxing properties, making it a popular ingredient in aromatherapy practices to relieve stress and anxiety. It is also recognized for its antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help relieve muscle tension and joint pain. Ambrette is also sometimes used for its aphrodisiac virtues, as its musky scent is thought to awaken the senses and promote intimacy. Finally, this plant is also appreciated in the cosmetics industry for its moisturizing and softening properties, particularly in the formulation of skin and hair care products. Overall, ambrette offers a palette of benefits that extends far beyond the world of fragrance, adding a touch of softness and relaxation to our daily lives.
Popular ambrette perfumes
• N°19 Eau Poudrée by Chanel: The second birth of the legendary N°19 by Jacques Polge for Chanel in 2011. Inspired by the trend for iris-based powder fragrances, this masterpiece rehabilitates iris Pallida, a precious material grown in Grasse. A deliciously floral bouquet, blended with woody notes and white musk, pays vibrant tribute to the freedom and timeless elegance of Coco Chanel.
• Pure XS For Her by Paco Rabanne: This is a seductive eau de parfum by Paco Rabanne, embodied by the magnetic Emily Ratajkowski. Its pink amphora-shaped bottle, topped with a black cap, houses a bewitching oriental composition. Floral notes of ylang-ylang and vanilla mingle with a subtle popcorn accord, creating a sensual, magnetic aura that's both virtuous and indecent.
• Egoïste by Chanel: an original, seductive fragrance magnified by a masterful ad by Jean-Paul Goude. The Egoïste man is impertinent and devastating, just like his flashy advertising, which left a lasting impression. Created in 1990 by Jacques Polge, this powerful fragrance harmoniously blends spicy, woody and balsamic notes, giving it a fascinating timelessness.
Who knows, maybe Bon Parfumeur, our 100% made-in-France perfume brand, will offer ambrette fragrances one day. In the meantime, don't hesitate to visit our website or come and meet us in store!
