What is Oud? The Essence, History, and Impact

Oud, or agarwood, is a luxurious resin from Aquilaria trees, prized for its rich, woody, sweet, and earthy aroma. With a history spanning thousands of years, oud has been used in Middle Eastern and Asian cultures for religious ceremonies, traditional medicine, and as a symbol of prestige.

Valued for its rarity and unique scent profile, oud is a key ingredient in high-end perfumes, incense, and essential oils. However, the demand for oud has led to overharvesting, affecting local communities and ecosystems.