Champaca, White (absolute)

Champaca is sold under one name for two flowers. Golden champaca is Michelia champaca. White champaca is Michelia alba, also classed as Magnolia × alba, and its scent is lighter and greener. The two are not interchangeable in a perfume formula.

01 · Origin

A tall evergreen tree of the Magnoliaceae with narrow, ivory petals. It is planted across South and Southeast Asia for its flowers, which are worn and offered in temples. This absolute is produced in India from conventionally grown blossoms.

02 · Process

The fresh flowers are solvent-extracted to a concrete, which is washed with alcohol to give the absolute. The method captures floral materials that do not survive distillation. Gamma-selinene, benzyl benzoate, phenylethyl benzoate and eugenol are the main constituents. Side-by-side work with Champaca, Red (No. 1246) separates the two flowers.

03 · In Practice

Sweet, creamy and floral, with a tea-like, faintly fruity green note. A heart note. Natural perfumery, attar-style blends in jojoba and olfactory study. Small proportions suit facial oil formulation. Blends with sandalwood, jasmine, rose, ylang ylang, vetiver, neroli and tuberose.

General information: For external use only. Dilute before applying to skin. Keep away from heat and sunlight. Keep out of reach of children. Avoid contact with eyes and mucous membranes.