The world of fragrances is vast, but nothing matches the prestige of Oud. Often referred to as "liquid gold," Oud is one of the most expensive and sought-after natural aromatic ingredients on the planet. But what exactly is it, and how does it differ from regular scented wood chips? Let’s dive in.
What is Oud?
Oud originates from the Aquilaria tree, native to Southeast Asia. In its normal state, the wood of this tree is pale and odorless. However, when the tree becomes infected with a specific type of mold (fungus), it triggers a natural defense mechanism.
To fight off the infection, the tree produces a dense, dark, and highly fragrant resin. This resin deeply penetrates the heartwood, transforming it into a dark, heavy, and incredibly aromatic wood. This resin-embedded wood is what we know as Oud.
What is Normal Wood or Low-Grade Oud?
Because authentic Oud takes years to form and is incredibly rare, the market is filled with alternatives and lower-grade versions:
- White Oud: This is simply the unaffected, uninfected white wood of the Aquilaria tree. Since it lacks the natural resin and aroma, manufacturers infuse it with synthetic fragrance oils to give it a scent.
- Alternative Wood Chips: Other common woods are often processed to mimic the experience of traditional incense.
Here are the most popular alternative woods used today:
- Sandalwood: High-quality sandalwood is cut into small pieces and thoroughly soaked in fragrance oils. This curing process typically takes anywhere from 30 to 60 days to ensure the wood fully absorbs the scent.
- Cedarwood & Guaiac Wood: These woods are also frequently used as a base for fragrance infusion due to their natural density and complementary woody notes.
Where is it Used?
Scented wood chips and Oud are deeply rooted in cultural traditions. They are most commonly burned to create a welcoming and luxurious atmosphere in:
- Mosques (Masjids)
- Majlis gatherings
- Weddings
- Homes
They are available in a massive variety of fragrance profiles. Some of the most popular and widely loved scents include Shay Oud, Shay Shay, Dehn Al Oud, and Shaikh Abdulla.
How to Use Oud and Scented Wood Chips
Burning Oud (or Muattar/Bakhoor) is a simple yet ritualistic process:
- Light a charcoal disc until it glows red and places it safely inside an incense burner (Mabkhara).
- Place a small piece of your Oud or scented wood chip directly on top of the hot charcoal.
- As the wood heats up, it will release a rich, fragrant smoke that fills the room.
Pro Tip: To make the scent last on your clothes, carefully pass the smoking burner underneath your garments (at a safe distance). The fabric will absorb the rich aroma, leaving you smelling incredible all day.
