Guaiac Wood. Pronounced ‘gwy-ack’. It’s one of our wonderful woody base notes along with cedar wood and labdanum (more on those in future posts.) The PerfumeSociety.org describes it as, a little bit birch tar-y, even tarmac-y, sometimes. Hints of tobacco, too, or the whiff of burning leaves in winter. Others describe it as sweet woody and spicy. What we love about it is that it adds a certain complex sophistication to our perfume. 

Guaiac wood comes from the Palo Santo tree and is a member of the same family as frankincense and myrrh, both magical and sacred fragrances.

The Palo Santo tree translates to Holy wood and is often referred to as the tree of life because of its therapeutic qualities. Found growing on the coast of South America it has been used by local cultures in their medical practices. In shamanic rituals, the Incas and other societies used the oil extracted from the tree, as well as the smoke produced when the wood was burned, to purify the spirit and heal the body. What’s interesting is that so many people who’ve smelled our perfume find it uplifting and brings a sense of clarity. 

As it’s an increasingly rare tree and a protected species, the harvesting of twigs and branches replaces the practice of felling the tree and is regulated by the Peruvian authorities so we know that the oil used in our perfume is from sustainable sources.

As a base note, Guaiac Wood brings a strong foundation of clean wood and a touch of herbiness. Combined with the green citrus top notes and warm spicy heart notes, the overall effect is one of an uplifting hug of comfort. Worth a try?