Aquilaria Agallocha essential oil, better known as Oud or Agarwood oil, is a rich, woody, deeply grounding oil steam-distilled from the resinous heartwood of the Aquilaria tree. It is used mainly in perfumery, meditation and skin- and hair-care blends, and because a little goes a very long way, it is almost always diluted before use.
What is Aquilaria Agallocha (Oud) oil?
Oud forms when the wood of the Aquilaria tree responds to natural stress and develops a dark, fragrant resin. That resinous heartwood is then distilled to capture its scent. The oil from Azlok is produced by steam distillation, has a thin consistency, and ranges from yellow to light orange in colour. The aroma is warm, smoky and woody with a long-lasting depth that perfumers value as a base note.
A few quick specifics for those who like the technical side: botanical name Aquilaria malaccensis, CAS No. 94350-09-1, FEMA #2334, specific gravity around 0.967, refractive index 1.518, flash point 100°C, and a shelf life of roughly two years. It is soluble in alcohols and fixed (carrier) oils, which is exactly how you will work with it.
Common uses
- Natural perfumery: Oud is a classic base note. It adds warmth and staying power and pairs beautifully with citrus and floral top notes.
- Meditation and spiritual practice: Its grounding aroma has long been used in prayer, incense and quiet reflection.
- Skincare blends: Traditionally added to facial oils for mature, dry and sensitive skin.
- Scalp and hair care: Mixed into carrier oils for a nourishing massage on dry or damaged hair.
- Aromatherapy: A few drops in a diffuser create a calm, cocooning atmosphere.
How to use it
Oud is potent, so treat it as a concentrate rather than a ready-to-use product.
- For skin: Dilute to about 1% or less in a carrier such as jojoba, almond or argan oil (roughly 1 drop per 5 ml of carrier). Always do a patch test on your inner forearm first and wait 24 hours.
- For hair and scalp: Add 1-2 drops to a tablespoon of coconut or sesame oil, massage in, leave for 20-30 minutes and wash out.
- For perfume: Dissolve in perfumer's alcohol or a fixed oil base. Because it is so long-lasting, start with the smallest amount and build up.
- For diffusing: 2-3 drops in a diffuser filled with water is plenty for most rooms.
Blends well with
Lemon, lime, neroli, clary sage, lavender and all types of citrus oils. Citrus lifts Oud's heavy base, while lavender and clary sage soften it into something more rounded.
Safety notes
- Always dilute before applying to skin; never use it neat.
- Do a patch test, especially if your skin is sensitive.
- Do not ingest. This is an essential oil for external and aromatic use only.
- Keep away from children and pets, and away from eyes and mucous membranes.
- Avoid during pregnancy or if you have a medical condition unless a qualified practitioner advises otherwise.
- The oil is flammable (flash point 100°C), so store it away from open flames and heat.
Buying and storage tips
Azlok offers Aquilaria Agallocha essential oil in 50 gm, 100 gm, 500 gm, 1 kg and 5 kg options, so you can buy a small quantity to trial before scaling up for a business. Because pure Oud is a premium oil, expect to use it sparingly.
- Store in a tightly capped, dark glass bottle away from direct sunlight and heat.
- Keep the cap on to prevent oxidation and preserve the aroma.
- Use within the two-year shelf life for the best scent and performance.
- Label your dilutions with the date and percentage so you can repeat a blend you like.
FAQ
Is Aquilaria Agallocha oil the same as Oud?
Yes. Oud and Agarwood oil are common names for the oil distilled from the resinous wood of the Aquilaria tree. Aquilaria Agallocha oil is one of these names.
Can I apply Oud oil directly to my skin?
No. It should be diluted in a carrier oil to about 1% or less before applying, and you should always patch-test first.
What scents does Oud blend with?
It works well with lemon, lime, neroli, clary sage, lavender and citrus oils. These brighter notes balance its deep, woody base.
How long does the oil last?
The shelf life is about two years when stored in a cool, dark place in a well-sealed bottle.
Why is Oud oil more expensive than many essential oils?
Oud comes from the slow-forming resin inside the Aquilaria tree, and only a small amount of oil is distilled from the wood, which makes it a genuinely premium ingredient.