Ambrette (Hibiscus Abelmoschus) perfumes

Amber, sweet, musky, animal, fruity, oily floral (iris)

Source

This plant comes from Eastern India and is grown in equatorial and tropical countries; mostly in Ecuador but also in India, Indonesia, Egypt, China, Guyana and the West Indies.

Extraction Method

The fruit contains small bean-shaped seeds, which are ground and distilled to extract a waxy substance rich in fatty acids called ambrette butter. The fatty acids are washed away with an alkaline medium to obtain a purified essence, incorrectly called ambrette seed absolute.

Uses

Only used in luxury perfumes because of its high price ($6,000 to $9,000/lb). Also used to flavour alcoholic and soft drinks as well as pastries.

History

In Egypt, the seeds are used as a breath-freshener and mixed with milk as an emulsion to soothe skin rashes. Arabs flavour their coffee with it. Widely used in Oriental countries. Medicinal properties Its odor develops family feeling and brings peace into the home. It strengthens the will and reduces the risk of infidelity among couples.