Opoponax Absolute Oil is a rich, resinous aromatic extract obtained from the resin of the Opoponax tree (Commiphora erythraea), often called sweet myrrh. It carries a warm, balsamic, woody and lightly spicy scent that perfumers and skincare formulators use as a deep base note. Azlok offers it as a cosmetic-grade oil, from a 10 ml sample right up to bulk packs.
What is Opoponax Absolute?
An "absolute" is a highly concentrated aromatic extract produced through solvent extraction rather than steam distillation. Opoponax absolute is prized for its smooth, honeyed warmth. Compared with common myrrh, sweet myrrh feels rounder and less sharp, which is why it appears so often in oriental, amber and incense-style fragrance accords.
Key specifications for this grade include botanical name Commiphora erythraea, CAS# 8021-36-1, FEMA# 2334, specific gravity around 0.926 g/ml, refractive index near 1.506, and a flash point of 100 °C. The colour is amber brown, and it is soluble in alcohol. Major constituents include (E)-β-bergamotene, (E)-β-ocimene, (z)-α-bisabolene, α-santalene, decanol and germacrene D.
Common uses
- Perfumery: a long-lasting base and fixative that anchors lighter top notes and adds resinous depth.
- Candle and soap making: a warm, incense-like character for artisan blends (always follow your wax or soap base's fragrance load guidelines).
- Skincare and personal care: used in tiny amounts to scent balms, oils and creams in premium formulations.
- Room and diffuser blends: a cosy, grounding note for evening or meditative moods.
How to use it
Opoponax absolute is thick and intensely concentrated, so a little goes a long way. Because it is soluble in alcohol, it works well in alcohol-based perfume bases and is easily diluted for tester strips.
- Dilute first. For skin-contact products, blend it into a carrier oil or alcohol at a low percentage before formulating.
- Build a blend. Add it drop by drop to your base and let the accord rest for a day or two so the notes settle.
- Pair thoughtfully. It sits beautifully with resin oils like frankincense, floral notes such as lavender, and bright citrus like sweet orange and grapefruit.
Blending ideas
Think of opoponax as the warm floor of a fragrance. A classic starting point is opoponax + frankincense + sweet orange for a resin-citrus amber. For something softer, try opoponax with lavender and a whisper of grapefruit. Keep the absolute in the minority at first, then increase gradually.
Safety notes
This is a concentrated aromatic material, not a finished product. Handle it with the same care you would any strong essential or absolute oil.
- Always dilute before applying to skin and do a patch test on your inner arm before wider use.
- Do not ingest. Despite the FEMA reference, treat this as a fragrance ingredient unless you are working to specific food-grade regulatory guidance.
- Work in a well-ventilated space and avoid prolonged inhalation of the neat oil.
- Keep away from children and pets, and store away from open flames given its flash point.
- If you are pregnant, nursing or have sensitive skin, consult a qualified professional before use.
Buying and storage tips
If you are new to this material, start with the 10 ml sample to test how it behaves in your recipes before committing to larger 100 GM, 500 GM, 1 KG or bulk packs. Because absolutes are viscous, gentle warming of the bottle in warm water can make pouring easier.
Store it in a tightly closed, amber glass bottle, away from heat, direct sunlight and air. Kept well, the shelf life is around two years. Label every dilution you make with the date and percentage so your blends stay consistent over time.
FAQ
Is opoponax the same as myrrh?
They are related but not identical. Opoponax comes from a Commiphora species and is often called sweet myrrh because its aroma is warmer, softer and more honeyed than the sharper scent of common myrrh.
Can I apply Opoponax Absolute Oil directly to my skin?
No. It is highly concentrated and should always be diluted in a carrier oil or alcohol base first, followed by a patch test before regular use.
What does it smell like?
Warm, balsamic, woody and slightly spicy, with a resinous, incense-like depth. It works mainly as a base note in perfumery.
What blends well with opoponax?
Resin oils like frankincense, floral notes such as lavender, and citrus notes like sweet orange and grapefruit are all reliable partners.
How should I store it?
Keep it in an airtight amber glass bottle in a cool, dark place, away from flames. Under good conditions it lasts about two years.