Product Overview
Our Galbanum CO2 has a somewhat softer aroma than steam distilled Galbanum – it has a very intense, diffusive, tenacious, bittersweet green, leafy-earthy, and bell pepper-like aroma, with a smooth woody/balsamic undertone. This powerful aromatic is the one to reach for to impart a true naturalness to perfume compositions. One notable fragrance that has a top note dominated by Galbanum is the classic green floral Chanel No. 19 launched in 1971.[1]
Galbanum has excellent fixative properties and, due to its intense aroma, requires only extremely small quantities to impart its green notes and to fix top notes and accords, with similar effects for middle and base notes. Interestingly, the science behind Galbanum's powerful odor intensity (as in other strongly scented botanicals) is the presence of extremely minute amounts of volatile nitrogen compounds. The Romans considered the aroma of Galbanum as "the smell of green,"[2] so it goes without saying that this essential oil is practically a standard for adding green notes to natural perfumes. Modern perfumers have referred to the aroma of Galbanum as "opulent", "mystical" and "primitive".
The use of Ferula galbaniflua in for incense and skincare goes back thousands of years.[4] Extracted from the resinous gum of a flowering plant native to Persia, it was used by ancient Egyptians in cosmetics and perfumery and finds mention in the Old Testament as a sacred ingredient for incense. The elevating aroma is said to evoke peace and balance in the spirit and is a valuable addition to massage blends and muscle and chest rubs. The extract is suitable for addition to skincare preparations, particularly for oily or mature skin.
1 Rhind, Jennifer Peace. Fragrance and Wellbeing, 2014, p. 261.
2 Rose, Jeanne. 375 Essential Oils and Hydrosols, 1999, p. 82.
3 Naturals Compendium, International Flavors and Fragrances, Inc., 2009, p. 55.
4 Rose, Jeanne. 375 Essential Oils and Hydrosols, 1999, pp. 81-2.