Galbanum

Galbanum is one of the key ingredients of green and aromatic notes in perfumery. This plant, also called “gummy ferrule” is a perennial herb native to Iran and Afghanistan. It forms a kind of large bush and produces small yellow flowers whose smell is rather unpleasant. In perfumery, it is the gum of the plant which interests the noses. This one is recovered by incision of the roots of galbanum. The gum is then distilled in order to obtain an essence or treated with solvents to produce a resinoid. Its use in the fragrances must be done in a very precise way because with too strong dose, galbanum can release a not very pleasant, almost squeaky perfume. Used sparingly, its essence is very fresh and lively, with green and spicy facets, and earthy and balsamic nuances.