What Does Animal Mean In Perfumery?

When looking back at the history of aromatic blends, we were not surprised to find that only natural elements were used. Aromatic solutions (now generally referred to as perfumes) were created utilizing elements extracted from only plant or animal sources. The animal “notes” provided these solutions with substantivity, warmth and a sensual and mysterious appeal. They also contributed to the longevity of the scent. The animals of particular interest in perfumery were the musk deer, beaver, civet and whale. “Animal-like” notes are still utilized in fragrance development today but due to animal cruelty concerns, the extraction of animal secretions has been banned and scientists have advanced to using safe, lab-developed synthetic options. Musk, castoreum, civet, ambergris and hyraceum are recognized animalistic notes still commonly used today.