Galbanum Gum

About Galbanum Gum

Galbanum Gum (Ferula galbaniflua) is an aromatic gum resin and a product of certain umbelliferous Persian plant species in the genus Ferula, chiefly Ferula gummosa (synonym F. galbaniflua) and Ferula rubricaulis. Galbanum-yielding plants grow plentifully on the slopes of the mountain ranges in the north, center, south, west, and east of Iran, south and east of Turkey, and western parts of Afghanistan, Tajikistan, and Turkmenistan. It occurs usually in hard or soft, irregular, more or less translucent and shining lumps, or occasionally in separate tears, of a light-brown, yellowish, or greenish-yellow color. Galbanum Gum has a disagreeable, bitter taste, a peculiar, intense, and persistent bitter green fragrance.

With a specific gravity of 1.212, it contains about 8% terpenes, about 65% of a resin that contains sulfur, about 20% gum, and a very small quantity of the colorless crystalline substance umbelliferone. It also contains:

• α-Pinene,

• β-Pinene,

• Sabinene,

• β-Myrcene,

• delta-carene,

• β-Phellandrene,

• Limonene,

• fenchyl acetate,

• p-Cymene,

• (E,E)-1,3,5-Undecatriene (galbanoles),

• (3E,5Z)-1,3,5- Undecatriene,

• (2Z,4Z,6E)-2,4,6-Undecatriene,

• eudesmol, bulnesol, and…

​

Galbanum Gum in Perfumery

Galbanum Gum is renowned in the world of perfumery for its distinctive green, woody, and earthy aroma. As a premier product, this gum not only stands out for its unique scent profile but also boasts a rich history and meticulous extraction process. This article delves into the fascinating journey of Galbanum Gum, from its ancient roots to its modern applications in creating some of the most compelling fragrances.

​

Role in Perfumery

Galbanum Gum is a versatile ingredient in perfumery, valued for its ability to add depth and character to fragrances. It is a key component in chypre and fougère perfumes, where its green and woody notes contribute to the overall harmony and sophistication of the scent. Notably, Galbanum Gum can provide a balancing effect, tempering sweeter floral or fruity notes and adding a layer of natural freshness.

​

Galbanum Gum's Contribution

High-quality Galbanum Gum, with commitment to sustainable sourcing and meticulous extraction, ensures that every portion retains its pure, potent fragrance. This exceptional ingredient empowers perfumers to create unique, captivating scents that stand out in the market.

​

Group: GREENS, HERBS, AND FOUGÈRES

Odor profile: An intense and persistent bitter green fragrance, fresh, woody, tenacious​

It is occasionally used in modern perfumes, and is the ingredient that gives the distinctive smell to fragrances like "Must" by Cartier, "Vent Vert" by Balmain, "Chanel No. 19", "Vol De Nuit" by Guerlain, as well as Silver Mountain Water by Creed, the esteemed scent of James Gandolfini used during the filming of the sixth season of The Sopranos. The debut of galbanum in fine modern perfumery is generally thought to be the origin of the "Green" family of scents, exemplified by the scent "Vent Vert" first launched by Balmain in 1945. Galbanum absolute is a brown viscous liquid that will easily resinify over time, even with minimal exposure to air, obtained by solvent-extraction from the gum oleo-resin of the plant. Its odour profile is described as ambery-green, sweet, balsamic, resinous with hints of freshness, "similar to how Galbanum Gum would smell when mixed with labdanum". It acts as a base note in perfume compositions - one of a handful of green base notes of natural origin. Because it is perceived as simultaneously 'green' and sweet, it finds a more specific role to create a special effect in 'Chypre green', 'floral green', 'Chypre coniferous', 'Woody Fougères', and 'Aquatic Fougères'.

​

Key Points about Galbanum Gum

• Resin Source: Galbanum Gum is derived from the gum resin of Ferula gummosa and Ferula galbaniflua, which are native to the Middle East.

• Aromatic Properties: It is known for its strong, balsamic, and herbal fragrance, making it a valuable ingredient in the perfume industry.

• Historical Use: Galbanum Gum has a history of use in ancient civilizations, including Egyptian and Roman cultures, for its aromatic and medicinal properties.

• Perfumery: In perfumery, Galbanum Gum is often used as a fixative and a green, fresh note, contributing to the complexity of fragrances.

• Medicinal Uses: Traditionally, it has been utilized in traditional medicine for its potential therapeutic properties, including anti-inflammatory effects.

• Harvesting: The resin is obtained by making incisions in the stems of the plants, and the gum that oozes out is collected and processed. Galbanum Gum remains a sought-after ingredient in various industries due to its unique aroma and historical significance.

​