In the realm of natural perfumery, destructive distillation refers to the process of heating natural materials such as seashells, woods, or resins in the absence of air to break them down into volatile compounds. This method involves intentionally burning the material, resulting in the formation of unique aromatic substances with distinct smoky, leathery, and sometimes tar-like bouquets. These materials can add depth and complexity to a fragrance, often imparting a rugged, earthy, or mysterious quality.
Seashells: When subjected to destructive distillation, seashells can produce a unique marine, smoky aroma.
Woods: The process can yield rich, smoky, and leathery notes, commonly found in materials like birch tar.
Resins: Resins like frankincense or myrrh can develop intensified, smoky, and balsamic scents through this method.
Destructive distillation is a technique that transforms the raw natural material into a more complex and concentrated aromatic substance, often used to create deep, enduring base notes in natural perfumery compositions.
