Ingredient Guide
Also known as sweet myrrh, opoponax is a resin obtained from trees closely related to myrrh that grow in Somalia and Ethiopia. Its name derives from the Greek words opo (sap) and panax (healing).
Like myrrh and frankincense, it is also used as incense. It has a balsamic warmth similar to myrrh, but with a more honey-like sweetness and roundness.
What Does It Smell Like in Perfume?
Natural opoponax essential oil is a complex fragrance material obtained from the resin of trees in the genus Commiphora. Its distinctive scent recalls sweet earth, mushrooms, licorice, and warm spices, layered with a fresh, full-bodied balsamic character. Rather than a single molecule, it consists of several components, including furanosesquiterpenes. An earthy shading beneath the sweetness is another characteristic. Used in amber compositions, it adds smooth resinous texture and dark depth, creating a lingering resinous impression that is not simply sweet.
Choosing a fragrance with opoponax
Opoponax’s appeal lies in resinous sweetness with earthy, spicy undertones. It can suggest the softness of honey or the depth of incense.
- Incense-like warmth: Woody or cinnamon notes suit a preference for rich resins.
- Soft sweetness: Honey or powdery flowers give darker resins a rounder feel.
- A dry finish: Tobacco or leather may appeal if you enjoy dryness alongside sweetness.
Two fragrances featuring opoponax
Eau Lente Eau de Toilette (Diptyque)
Opoponax meets cedar, cinnamon and red tangerine. Citrus brings brightness to the warmth of resin, wood and spice.
Volutes Eau de Parfum (Diptyque)
Opoponax is layered with honey, cinnamon and an iris accord to evoke soft tobacco. Honeyed sweetness, makeup-like powderiness and dry tobacco overlap.
Find your next fragrance
In Fragrance Finder, choose “Favorite fragrances & notes” on the home screen, then look for notes you enjoy under “Favorite notes”. Select from the available suggestions and press “Next”.
