Oudh essential oil, also called agarwood oil, is a deep, warm, woody oil steam-distilled from the resinous heartwood of the Aquilaria agallocha tree. It is used mainly as a fragrance ingredient in perfumes, attars, skincare and aromatic blends — always diluted, never applied neat or ingested. Azlok's Oudh Essential Oil starts at ₹699 and is available in sizes from 50 gm to bulk 25 kg packs.
What is Oudh essential oil?
Oudh is one of the most prized aromatic materials in the world. The scent forms inside agarwood when the tree produces a dark, fragrant resin. That resin is what gives the oil its signature richness — a smoky, woody, slightly sweet character that lingers for hours. Because the raw material is so precious, oudh has long been valued in traditional Indian and Middle Eastern perfumery.
Azlok's oil is produced in India by steam distillation. It presents as a light yellow to yellow liquid with a characteristic woody odour, is soluble in alcohol, and blends readily with carrier oils.
Common uses
- Perfumery and attars: Oudh is a classic base note. A tiny amount anchors a fragrance and adds depth and longevity.
- Skincare and body care formulations: Used at low percentages to scent creams, lotions, balms and body oils.
- Aromatic blends and diffusers: A drop or two brings a warm, grounding, meditative quality to a room.
- Candle and soap making: Adds a luxurious woody note to handmade products (follow your base's fragrance-load guidelines).
How to use it
Oudh is potent, so a little goes a long way. Keep these basics in mind:
- Always dilute. For skin, blend into a carrier oil such as jojoba, sweet almond or coconut. A safe starting range for general use is roughly 1–2% (about 1–2 drops per 5 ml of carrier).
- Patch test first. Apply a small diluted amount to your inner forearm and wait 24 hours before wider use.
- Build blends slowly. Oudh pairs beautifully with sandalwood, geranium, cistus, cardamom and rosemary. Add it drop by drop — it can easily overpower lighter oils.
- For diffusers, use just a drop or two in water and adjust to taste.
Blending tips
Think of oudh as the foundation of a fragrance rather than the star. Cardamom and rosemary bring a bright top lift, geranium adds a floral middle, and sandalwood or cistus deepen the woody base alongside the oudh. Because it is a heavy base note, let a finished blend rest for a few days so the aromas marry.
Safety notes
- For external and fragrance use only. Do not ingest.
- Never apply undiluted oil directly to skin.
- Keep away from children and pets.
- Avoid contact with eyes and broken skin.
- If you are pregnant, breastfeeding or have a medical condition, consult a qualified practitioner before use.
- Store away from open flames — the flash point is around 80 °C.
- Always check the product's MSDS and allergen information before formulating.
Buying and storage
Genuine oudh is expensive, so choose a supplier who shares clear specifications. For reference, Azlok lists this oil with a specific gravity of 0.923, refractive index of 1.507, optical rotation of +10 to +25, and a two-year shelf life. Sizes run from a 50 gm bottle for hobbyists up to 25 kg for manufacturers.
To protect the aroma, store the oil in a tightly closed, dark glass bottle in a cool, dry place away from sunlight and heat. Wipe the rim and reseal after every use to limit air exposure and oxidation.
FAQ
Is Oudh essential oil the same as agarwood oil?
Yes. Oudh and agarwood oil refer to the same oil, distilled from the resinous heartwood of the Aquilaria agallocha tree.
Can I apply Oudh oil directly to my skin?
No. Always dilute it in a carrier oil first, usually around 1–2% for general use, and do a 24-hour patch test before applying more widely.
What does Oudh smell like?
It has a rich, warm, woody aroma with smoky and slightly sweet undertones. It is deep and long-lasting, which is why it works so well as a base note.
Which oils blend well with Oudh?
Sandalwood, geranium, cistus, cardamom and rosemary are excellent partners, and it works with all types of carrier oils.
How long does Oudh essential oil last?
Roughly two years when stored properly in a sealed dark glass bottle, kept cool and away from light and heat.