The Alchemy of Oūd Distillation

Author Nora Bennis Read 1 minute
The Alchemy of Oūd Distillation

How is oud created? Explore the journey from agarwood tree to oud essence: natural infection, harvesting, artisanal distillation, and aging process.

The Harvest

Wild agarwood trees (200+ years old) are carefully selected in Laos’ forests, only naturally infected or fallen trees are used. Resin-rich "black wood" is hand-chipped, sorted, and cleaned.
Oud wood collector's Item

The Soak

Chips soak in mountain water for 48+ hours to soften harsh tones, awakening the oud’s smoky-sweet soul. Enzymes transform bitterness into complexity.
Oud Distillation

The Distillation

In copper stills, wood steams for 24+ hours at low heat. Only the heart-cut oil (hours 8–24) is kept—20kg of wood yields 1ml of oil.

DISTILLATION OF ESSENTIAL OIL | HAGA Oud - Hoang Giang ...

Oud Oil Distillation

Agarwood oil collected after distillation

The Aging

Oil rests in clay vessels for 1+ year, deepening into a velvety, leather-tinged elixir. Perfumers then blend it with saffron or cedar for harmony.