What is the difference between Aglaia odorata oil and Aglaia odorata absolute?
Both are premium forms of the same flower, produced differently and used differently in perfumery.
Key Differences
| Aspect | Essential Oil | Absolute |
|---|---|---|
| Production | Steam distillation | Solvent extraction (followed by alcohol wash) |
| Yield | 0.08–0.12% | Higher (0.2–0.3%), still small |
| Texture | Thin liquid | More viscous, richer |
| Aroma | Fresher, greener top notes | Fuller, deeper, more tenacious floral |
| Color | Pale yellow | Deep amber/brown |
| Typical price | High | Higher |
Which to Choose
- Fresh, delicate, tea-like floral for perfumes and cosmetics → essential oil
- Rich, opulent, long-lasting floral for luxury fragrances → absolute
Many perfumers use both: absolute for the base accord, oil to brighten the top. We can supply either form — tell us your project and we will recommend the right one.
This article was published on 2026-09-07, and last updated on 2026-09-07. The article will be continuously updated.