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Astragalus

GREENS, HERBS AND FOUGERES  /  green · earthy · floral
Astragalus
Astragalus perfume ingredient
CategoryGREENS, HERBS AND FOUGERES
Subcategorygreen · earthy · floral
Origin
VolatilityBase Note
BotanicalAstragalus membranaceus
AppearanceColorless to pale yellow liquid
Odor StrengthMedium
Producing CountriesChina, Mongolia
PyramidBase

Astragalus is a flowering plant known for its earthy and slightly sweet aroma, often used in perfumery.

  1. Scent
  2. Terroir & Origins
  3. The Full Story
  4. Fun Fact
  5. Extraction & Chemistry
  6. In Perfumery

Scent

The aroma of astragalus unfolds with an earthy and slightly sweet scent that can remind one of freshly turned soil mixed with subtle hints of green grass. Its fragrance carries an herbal quality. wildflowers.

Scent Evolution

As the scent develops, the initial sweetness gives way to a more rounded, soft profile. The herbaceous notes linger gently. Astragalus's varied aroma makes it an excellent choice for both uplifting and soothing fragrance compositions.

Evolution over time

Immediately

Immediately

The earthy sweetness is prominent in the first minutes.
After a few hours

After a few hours

The herbal character deepens after 1-4 hours.
After a few days

After a few days

The scent remains soft and grounding after 24h+.

Terroir & Transformation

Indicative 2025 wholesale prices.

The Full Story

Astragalus, commonly known as milkvetch or huang qi, is a flowering plant native to Asia, particularly in regions like China and Mongolia. It has a rich history in traditional Chinese medicine, respected for healing properties and ability to boost the immune system. This herbaceous plant, part of the legume family, produces delicate flowers that range in color from white to purple. Its rootsare the primary source utilized in perfumery and herbal practices, harvested with care to ensure sustainability.

Origin and Production

in perfumery, astragalus is valued for unique olfactory characteristics. The scent smells earthy, slightly sweet, and subtly herbal. Its aroma can carry a sense of grounding and warmth.

Chemistry and Scent Profile

Sourcing astragalus requires a balance of careful cultivation and wild harvesting. As a sustainable resource, it is often cultivated in controlled environments where it can thrive and be harvested without harming the natural ecosystems. This dedication to sustainability helps maintain the availability of astragalus as an important ingredient in perfumery and herbal remedies.

Role in Perfumery

Overall, the significance of astragalus in perfumery lies in its scent and in its historical and medicinal associations. By incorporating this ingredient into fragrances, perfumers can create compositions that connects with nature and tradition, appealing to those who appreciate both the artistic and therapeutic aspects of scent.

Did You Know?

Astragalus is used in perfumery and widely recognized in traditional medicine for its immune-boosting properties.

This note in Première Peau. Simili Mirage · Gravitas Capitale. Sample all seven extraits in the Discovery Set.

Did You Know?

Did you know?
Astragalus is used in perfumery and widely recognized in traditional medicine for its immune-boosting properties.

Extraction & Chemistry

Extraction method: The aromatic material is obtained through steam distillation of the dried roots.

↑ See Terroir & Origins for origin-specific methods.

Molecular FormulaN/A — complex natural extract (contains astragalosides, polysaccharides)
CAS NumberN/A — no standard CAS for perfumery extract
Botanical NameAstragalus membranaceus
IFRA StatusNo known restrictions
SynonymsMILK VETCH · HUANG QI
Physical Properties
Odor StrengthMedium
AppearanceColorless to pale yellow liquid

In Perfumery

Astragalus is typically a base note in perfumery, giving depth and richness to fragrance blends. It works alongside other earthy and floral notes, such as vetiver, sandalwood, and lavender, allowing for the creation of balanced and well-balanced compositions. Perfumers often use astragalus to enhance the longevity of their fragrances, as its grounding qualities help anchor more volatile top and heart notes.

From the raw to the worn

This is what it becomes.