| Field | Detail |
|---|---|
| Botanical Name | Evernia prunastri |
| Pronunciation | OAK-moss |
| Common Names | Oakmoss, Tree Moss |
| Plant Family | Parmeliaceae |
| Plant Part Used | Lichen growing on oak and other deciduous trees |
| Extraction Method | Solvent Extraction (Absolute) |
| Origin Regions | France, Balkans, Central Europe, and North Africa |
Description
Oakmoss Absolute is a deeply earthy, green, and grounding extract derived from the lichen Evernia prunastri, which thrives on the bark of oak and other deciduous trees in temperate forests. Its aroma is profoundly complex — rich, woody, and mossy, with leathery undertones and a subtle sweetness that deepens as it warms on the skin. As one of perfumery’s most important base materials, Oakmoss anchors compositions with an enduring natural depth and a velvety forest character.
Historically, Oakmoss has been collected for centuries in the forests of France and Eastern Europe, where it was used as an aromatic fixative in fine perfumery. It became essential to the development of chypre and fougère fragrance families, lending the cool, green, and forest-like nuance that defines many classic perfumes. Its evocative aroma captures the sensation of moist woodland air and the soft texture of moss-covered bark.
In aromatherapy and natural formulation, Oakmoss Absolute is prized less for therapeutic effects and more for its emotional and aesthetic grounding. Its deep, earthy scent promotes calm focus and stability, making it an exceptional aromatic anchor in meditative or restorative blends. Though used primarily for perfumery, it also contributes mild antiseptic and skin-supportive properties when well-diluted.
Chemically, Oakmoss contains unique aromatic compounds — including evernic acid, atranol, and chloratronol — which contribute to its characteristic “mossy” scent. However, because some of these natural constituents can be sensitizing, modern absolutes are refined or IFRA-compliant to minimize allergenic compounds. The resulting oil retains its luxurious depth while ensuring safety in contemporary formulations.
Oakmoss Absolute embodies the soul of the forest. Deep, cool, and enduring, it provides the grounding backbone of natural perfumery — uniting earth and air in one of nature’s most sophisticated aromatic expressions.
History & Background
| Era / Region | Traditional Use | Notable Facts |
|---|---|---|
| Medieval Europe | Herbal incense and perfumery | Used to scent clothing and linens |
| 19th Century France | Perfumery base note | Essential to the creation of chypre and fougère accords |
| 20th Century | Classic perfumery | Featured in iconic fragrances such as Chanel No. 5 and Mitsouko |
| Modern Aromatherapy | Grounding and fixation | Refined to comply with IFRA standards for safety and sensitivity |
Oakmoss harvesting remains a delicate craft in Europe, where sustainable sourcing ensures the preservation of this slow-growing forest lichen.
Aroma Profile
| Attribute | Description |
|---|---|
| Aroma Type | Deep, earthy, woody, green, and slightly leathery |
| Scent Strength | Strong (Base Note) |
| Blends Well With | Vetiver, Patchouli, Sandalwood, Cedarwood, Bergamot, and Labdanum |
Oakmoss provides weight, texture, and longevity to aromatic compositions — grounding bright top notes and harmonizing floral or resinous accords.
Chemical Composition
| Compound | Approx. % | Function |
|---|---|---|
| Evernic Acid | 1–5% | Fixative, antiseptic |
| Atranol / Chloroatranol | Trace to 2% (IFRA-regulated) | Aromatic depth, potential allergen |
| Dihydroevernic Acid | 1–4% | Sweet-earthy note, fixative |
| Atranorin | 1–3% | Antioxidant, aromatic intensity |
| Lichen Alcohols (Mixed) | Variable | Warm, leathery, tenacious character |
Modern Oakmoss absolutes are often purified to reduce atranol content, ensuring safety in skincare and perfumery use while preserving aromatic depth.
Cautions & Safety
| Type | Guidance |
|---|---|
| Internal Use | Not for internal use. |
| Topical Use | Dilute to ≤0.1% in final blend per IFRA guidelines. |
| Pregnancy / Children | Avoid during pregnancy and for young children. |
| Photosensitivity | Non-phototoxic. |
| Storage | Store tightly sealed in dark glass, away from light and heat. Shelf life: 5–6 years. |
Always verify IFRA compliance when formulating with Oakmoss Absolute. Even trace levels provide strong aromatic effects.
Uses & Application Steps
Oakmoss Absolute is valued for aromatic fixation, grounding depth, and emotional stability.
Aromatic Use
- Add trace amounts to diffusers or perfume bases for deep, forest-like grounding.
- Use in meditation blends to promote calm focus and emotional balance.
- Combine with citrus and florals for an elegant natural perfume foundation.
Topical Use
- Dilute below 0.1% for use in perfumery-grade skin products.
- Blend into carrier oils or balms as a fixative and aromatic stabilizer.
- Use sparingly to add leathery depth to botanical colognes.
Perfumery Use
- Essential component in chypre and fougère bases.
- Blends beautifully with Bergamot and Labdanum for classical structure.
- Fixes volatile top notes, extending the life of natural compositions.
Further Reading & External Links
| Source | URL |
|---|---|
| AromaWeb — Oakmoss Absolute Profile | https://www.aromaweb.com/essential-oils/oakmoss-absolute.php |
| Eden Botanicals — Oakmoss Absolute | https://www.edenbotanicals.com/oakmoss-absolute.html |
| Plant Therapy — Oakmoss Absolute | https://www.planttherapy.com/products/oakmoss-absolute |
| Hermitage Oils — Oakmoss Absolute | https://hermitageoils.com/product/oakmoss-absolute/ |
| PubChem — Evernic Acid Compound Summary | https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/73439 |
Citations & References
- Tisserand, R., & Young, R. (2014). Essential Oil Safety (2nd ed.). Elsevier.
- PubChem Database — Evernic Acid (CID: 73439).
- Eden Botanicals — Oakmoss Absolute Data Sheet.
- IFRA Standards, 2024 Update.
- AromaWeb — Oakmoss Absolute Profile.
Conclusion
Oakmoss Absolute captures the essence of the forest floor — rich, grounding, and alive with natural texture. Its scent conveys strength and depth, lending elegance and permanence to perfumes, diffusions, and meditative blends.
Physically, Oakmoss adds fixative value and mild antiseptic properties to formulations. Emotionally, it steadies the mind and evokes the quiet calm of nature, making it a favorite base for grounding and balancing aromatherapy work.
Among the world’s classic perfume ingredients, Oakmoss remains unmatched for depth and sophistication. Its aroma connects artistry and nature — a green thread of the forest woven into the fabric of fine perfumery.
Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is for educational purposes only and has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This content is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before using any essential oil or absolute. Conduct your own research by reviewing all citations and references listed above.