Attars are generally essential oils and absolutes obtained by natural resources. In general, essential oils are extracted by hydrodistillation or steam. Technically, Attar Perfumes are the extracts of nature-based flora and fauna.
Essential oils are extracted into a wood base similar to sandalwood and let to get older. The aging period could range from one to 10 years, based on the source of natural oils used and the result you want to achieve.
Attars are generally high-concentrated perfumes that are free of synthetic chemicals and alcohol. These natural perfumes are sold in tiny quantities and are filled in small, decorated, or at times, jewel-like traditional decanters.
Based on the effects on the human body, attars can be classified into 2 types:
- Cool Attars – These attars possess a profound cooling effect on human bodies and are usually used during the summer months. For example, jasmine, mogra, rose and kewda are considered cool attars.
- Warm Attars These attars are believed to increase the body’s temperature. They are therefore commonly used during winters. Some examples of warm attars include Saffron (in India called Kesar) and amber and musk.
Apart from that, based upon the sources utilized in the classification process, Attar Perfumes can be classified into a variety of kinds:
Floral Attars: These attars can be made from the extracts of only one kind of flower. A few examples of floral attars are
- Rose
- Jasmine
- Jasmine Sambac (in India called Mogra)
Herbal Attars: These attars can be created by mixing and combining various extract oils derived from botanical sources like flowers, leaves and spices, fruits, stems or roots.
Mitti Attars: They are distillates made from baked soil, layered over either sandalwood or liquid paraffin oil using water distillation methods, often using Ganges waters from rivers.
Animal Scents: Attars are made from animal products like pheromones. Therefore, they can also be considered natural fragrances that belong to the non-vegan category. For instance, musk or ambergris are scents that are derived from animals.
- Musk – Musk is derived from the glandular secretions produced by the rare male deer, found mainly within Himalayan regions.
- Ambergris – Ambergris is an aromatic substance that sperm whales release. They are the largest toothed animal in the world.
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Life of Attars
Attar Perfumes have a long shelf-life and don’t require any preservatives. However, some attars get more assertive over time and cost more. This is why antique attars are often sold at higher prices.
Conclusion
Attar is a component of various human civilizations. It helps improve mood and confidence and can also aid in the healing process. If you decide to use an attar perfume, ensure that you select an organic and non-toxic attar to reap the most benefits with no adverse consequences.
