Most Unusual Perfume Ingredients

Ambergris

Whale vomit.  It is a substance found in the stomach of whales that lines it’s stomach.  After being vomited up and floating on top of the ocean in the sun for a period of time, the initial fecal odor subsides and leaves a sweet earthy scent.  It is banned in the United States so whales are not killed for it’s harvesting, but other parts of the country it’s still legal.

Deer Musk

Deer musk is gotten from a gland in the rectal area of a male deer.  It is one of the most expensive animal products in the world.  In ancient times it was considered an aphrodisiac.  It is a dark purplish color, the scent is very strong and long lasting.

Civet

A civet is a small animal that produces an oil excreted from a pouch.  It’s a pale yellow liquid that becomes salve like as it ages.  It has a strong putrid odor but when diluted it becomes pleasant and sweet.  Each kilogram of this oil can be sold for $500.00.

Hyraceum

The Cape Hyrax is a small mammal, it urinates and defecates in the same location throughout it’s life, causing a large pile.  After hundreds or thousands of years it becomes rock-like and is used in perfumery.  It also has some known medical benefits.

 

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