Galbanum

Very green and rough scent, vegetal and fresh leaf, ivy, conifer, with a hint of vegetables or green peas.

A deeply green scent that symbolizes the freedom, nature and renewal of the swinging 60s and 70s, galbanum is a much-loved note known for its rough, herbaceous and chypre-like facets. Pairing particularly well with hyacinth and gardenia, galbanum is a favorite alongside vibrant floral notes as it adds an earthy, slightly bitter edge. The note is also a renowned fixative—tying notes down, blending them together and ensuring that they linger for longer.

Data sheet

Type
Extraction Method
Used parts

Production

The ingredient itself derives from the gum of the galbanum plant—an umbelliferous grass native to Iran and Afghanistan. The essential oil is extracted through a process of hydro-distillation, after which the gum is treated with solvents to obtain resinoids that range from a dark amber color to brownish-yellow. The result is an herbaceous scent of green, balsamic, woody and animalic dimensions.

History

Galbanum was once heralded for its unique medicinal purposes. In ancient Greece, several authors noted galbanum for its ability to act as a powerful pain killer, while ancient Egyptians included the herbaceous ingredient in recipes to freshen the breath.

Origin

Afghanistan, Islamic Republic of Iran

Most combined ingredients

Iconic Fragrance

Balmain

VENT VERT

In the aftermath of the second world war, Germaine Cellier invented a new floral family: the Floral green. Vent vert contains an over-dose of 8% of galbanum, supported by the hyacinth in a sharp and very natural green freshness.