Ingredient

Cistus Ladaniferus Resin

Cistus ladaniferus

Labdanum resinoid has been used in incense and perfumes since antiquity for its complex, bewitching scent. It serves as a rich base note, evoking pine but also leather, tobacco, pepper, and even coffee. It is often used as a vegan alternative to ambergris.

Growing under the hot sun of the Mediterranean basin, the evergreen leaves of Cistus ladaniferus coat themselves with a sticky, fragrant resin to prevent dehydration when the temperature rises. Also called gum rockrose, it is a pioneer plant — the first to spread on degraded soils after a fire, thus preventing erosion.