What Is Oud? Discover the World’s Most Luxurious Fragrance Note
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If you’ve ever experienced the warm, smoky depth of oud, you’ll know it’s unlike any other scent. But what exactly is oud, and why has it become such a prized note in luxury fragrance?
At Laith Candles, oud is at the heart of our identity. It is more than a fragrance. It is a cultural signature, a sensory memory, and a connection between modern design and centuries-old tradition.
The Origins of Oud
Oud, also known as agarwood, comes from the resin of the Aquilaria tree, which grows primarily in Southeast Asia. When the tree becomes infected with a specific type of mould, it produces a dark, fragrant resin in response. This is oud.
This resin has been harvested and revered for centuries across Middle Eastern, South Asian, and East Asian cultures. Traditionally, it has been used in:
- Ceremonial incense
- Spiritual rituals
- Personal fragrance
- Hospitality and welcome rituals
Why Is Oud So Expensive?
Often referred to as “liquid gold,” oud is one of the rarest and most valuable fragrance ingredients in the world.
- It can take years for the Aquilaria tree to develop oud resin.
- Only a small percentage of wild trees naturally produce it.
- The extraction and distillation process is complex and labour-intensive.
As a result, high-grade oud commands premium prices and is often used in luxury perfumes and high-end home fragrances.
Why We Use Oud in Laith Candles
Oud is central to the Laith identity. Our candles are more than decorative objects. They are expressions of memory, space and mood. Oud allows us to infuse richness, depth and cultural meaning into each hand-poured candle.
Here are three of our most popular oud-based candles:
Omair – Leather, Rose, Bergamot & Oud
An opulent, layered blend featuring smoky oud, leather, rose and tonka.
Amaya – Praline, Rose, Clove & Oud
A refined and warming scent with sweet praline, soft rose, and a rich oud base.
Springcliffe Oud
A candle inspired by sacred space and nostalgic stillness. Woodsy, grounded and familiar.
The Scent Profile of Oud
Oud has a distinct and complex scent. It is commonly described as:
- Woody
- Smoky
- Earthy
- Resinous
- Slightly sweet
- Deep and long-lasting
When blended with florals like rose or base notes like musk and leather, oud offers a beautifully balanced fragrance that fills a space without overwhelming it.
How to Use Oud Candles at Home
Many Laith customers use oud candles as part of their daily or evening rituals. Here are a few ideas:
- Light an oud candle during prayer or quiet reflection
- Use in the living room or bedroom for a relaxing evening atmosphere
- Pair with your home decor as both a visual and sensory centrepiece
Oud Is More Than a Fragrance
Oud is timeless. Whether you’re new to the scent or reconnecting with a familiar tradition, Laith Candles offers a modern, meaningful way to enjoy this treasured fragrance note.
Our oud candles are hand-poured in Great Britain, using vegan wax blends and wooden wicks for a cleaner, slower burn.
Browse our full collection of oud candles and bring home the scent of heritage, luxury and calm.
